Rheumatoid arthritis is more common in women than men, and occurs in relatively young people, most commonly starting in the thirties and forties. It is commonly associated with other immune system disorders, such as dry eye syndrome (Sjögren’s syndrome) and Raynaud’s phenomenon (blood vessel spasms in the hands or feet precipitated by exposure to cold).

Food allergies commonly play a role in causing rheumatoid arthritis. Although many physicians and the well-known national arthritis organizations often say that diet has nothing to do with arthritis, clinical experience and a number of research articles have shown otherwise. Healthy diets and avoiding food allergens are important components of arthritis treatment. Allergy tests can help pinpoint which foods to avoid. In my experience, dairy products and meats make symptoms worse, possibly because of allergy and possibly because land-animal fats can increase inflammation.

Other immune arthritis conditions include ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis of the spine) and arthritis associated with psoriasis.

Osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease, is more common than rheumatoid arthritis and is the result of wear and tear, infection or joint injury. After the age of 70, there is X-ray evidence of osteoarthritis in 85% of Americans, although some of them may have no symptoms. It is often helped by the same dietary supplements that relieve rheumatoid arthritis. The following supplements are often helpful for relieving symptoms and restoring joint integrity:

There are many reports of other supplements that sometimes help arthritis. They include extracts of sea cucumber, green-lipped mussel, and cartilage—from either shark or calf (bovine) sources. Some of my patients have reported benefits from these supplements. However, so far I am not as impressed with these products as with those in the program outlined above.