Flaxseed Oil as a Natural Arthritis Treatment
Oils Rich in ALA Offer Arthritis Pain Relief
Using flaxseed oil as a natural arthritis treatment makes good sense and is recommended by many leading arthritis publications, including the Arthritis Foundation. When selecting natural arthritis treatments, flaxseed oil provides an inexpensive way to obtain omega-3 fatty acids.
Arthritis Pain and Inflammation and the Link to Essential Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids are the "good" fats the human body cannot make on its own. Scientists assign them numbers - omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9. The ratio, rather than the quantity, is what's most important. According to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, the typical Western diet is usually full of omega-6 fatty acids but deficient in omega-3. That's not surprising, given the plethora of corn and soy in the average Western diet - both plants rich in omega-6 and deficient in omega-3.
When omega 3 fatty acids are plentiful in the diet, they are plentiful in human cells. They tend to decrease the inflammatory response. This decreases inflammation and in turn, arthritis pain. Other beneficial effects include lowering the risk of heart disease, improvements in vision and mood, and improvements in any disorder caused or exacerbated by the inflammatory response.
Flaxseed Oil Supplements as Natural Remedies for Arthritis
Although the FDA has not approved the claim that flaxseed oil supplements are a natural remedy for arthritis, there is so much anecdotal information based on sound scientific knowledge of how omega-3 fatty acids work that many doctors are comfortable suggesting flaxseed oil supplements as natural remedies for arthritis.
Many brand names and types of flaxseed oil supplements are found in pharmacies, vitamin stores and natural health food stores nationwide. One popular brand is Barleans flax seed oil. Barleans flax seed oil (the company spells flaxseed as "flax seed") is an organic flaxseed oil rich in plant lingans, which the body turns into useful substances to reduce inflammation and balance hormones. Barleans flax seed oil is available as a liquid which can be used as a food oil in salad dressings or with any meal.
Flaxseed oil supplements may be easier for some patients to take. These supplements vary in potency and dose, so read the label and follow label directions before taking flaxseed oil supplements. For vegans and vegetarians, avoid capsules containing gelatin since gelatin is made from animal hooves and slaughterhouse by-products. Organic flaxseed oil should be free from pesticides and obtained from flax plants grown according to government organic standards.
Other Natural Remedies for Arthritis
There are many other natural remedies for arthritis that patients can try. A diet for arthritis pain relief is based upon good nutritional recommendations and includes healthy fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low fat protein sources. Herbs may offer some relief, along with gentle exercises such as t'ai chi, yoga and walking to maintain mobility and improve flexibility.
As always, follow physician's recommendations. If allergic reactions or unpleasant reactions occur when taking supplements, stop taking them and seek medical treatment. Flaxseed oil supplements should not be taken by patients who are taking blood thinning medication, cholesterol lowering medication, or certain heart medications without doctor's approval.
Flaxseed Oil May Help Arthritis Pain
|
What do you think about this article?
More in Health & Wellness
Latest Articles