Vitamin deficiencies in the body are the root cause of swelling, soreness and chronic joint pain, which are the symptoms of a gamut of diseases such as arthritis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. These injuries occur when the cartilage that acts as a protective shield between joints wears out, causing sustained pain and tautness and sometimes completely restricting movement. However, vitamin supplements and a healthy, can help cure and prevent these diseases.
Types of Vitamins
Vitamins are broadly categorized as water-soluble or fat-soluble. Water-soluble vitamins dissolve in water and are flushed out of the body through the excretory system. Fat-soluble vitamins tend to accumulate in the body as they don't liquefy. There are 13 vitamins in the human body, nine of which are water-soluble (the eight B's and C) and four that are fat-soluble (A, D, E and K).
Vitamin Deficiency
Deficiency of Vitamin D blocks the body from naturally restoring frayed cartilage, aggravating arthritis. Antioxidant vitamins such as A, C and E counterbalance the free radicals that destroy cells and tissues. Accordingly, a lack of these vitamins and essential fatty acids can be responsible for causing degenerative joint diseases.
Vitamin Supplements
Vitamin supplements may not entirely reverse an acute case of arthritis but they can work wonders in reducing soreness and pain. An effective supplement should include antioxidant vitamins such as A, beta carotene (pro-vitamin A), niacin (also known as B3, B5 (pantothenic acid), B6, C, D and E.
Natural Sources
Nature is a treasure trove of vitamins, and incorporating various vitamin-rich foods into your diet can combat joint maladies. Vitamin A is present in milk and other dairy products, such as as egg yolks, as well as in oily fish, while beta carotene is found in orange and yellow vegetables such as sweet potatoes, apricots and carrots.
Foods with a high content of vitamin C include broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, spinach, red peppers and almost all citrus fruits. Fish, lean meats and cottage cheese are rich in vitamin B3 whereas eggs, soybeans, whole-grain cereals, lentils and peanuts are loaded with vitamin B5.
Wheat germ, whole wheat, soybeans and bananas are rich in vitamin B6. Foods high in vitamin D include dairy products and fish such as salmon, tuna and cod. Vitamin E-laden foods include walnuts, almonds, avocados and spinach. All of these consumed as part of a wholesome balanced diet can help keep joint aches at bay.
Considerations
Indiscriminate popping of vitamin supplements is not a good idea to get rid of joint problems, as they can accumulate in your body and, if taken in excess, actually enhance the risk of arthritis and other joint-related diseases.
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