Reversal of osteoarthritis by nutritional intervention
Article Abstract:
European research has indicated that osteoarthritis can be reversed under certain conditions. Osteoarthritis is a catch-all term for a group of joint diseases characterized by cartilage degeneration. In many cases, the cartilage that caps the bony structures of the joint undergoes a degenerative change, perhaps because of deficient repair of mechanical damage. More individuals are affected by osteoarthritis than by any other disease; nearly every individual suffers some degree of osteoarthritis after 50 years of age. Osteoarthritis disables approximately 50 million Americans yearly. Therapy for osteoarthritis has consisted largely of the administration of analgesics to reduce pain and joint discomfort. There is now strong evidence that, given the right conditions, damaged cartilage can heal itself. Chondroprotective (cartilage-protective) agents, developed in Europe, help the body repair the damage caused by osteoarthritic joint changes. These nutrients work by stimulating the build-up (anabolic metabolism) of cartilage. Two major classes of chondroprotective agents are discussed: glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), which include the chondroitins (a major chemical component of cartilage); and antioxidants, which include vitamins C and E, and some enzymes. Most of the studies concerning the effects of these agents have been carried out at universities and centers outside of the US. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Journal of Chiropractic
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0744-9984
Year: 1990
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
The antioxidant vitamins and cardiovascular disease: a critical review of epidemiologic and clinical trial data
Article Abstract:
Some studies indicate that vitamin E may protect against cardiovascular disease, while other studies find no benefit. Researchers compared the results of epidemiologic studies of large groups of people to the results of randomized studies regarding whether vitamins E, C, or beta-carotene prevent or reduce heart disease. These three vitamins are known as anti-oxidants, which are thought to prevent the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, which creates the buildup of plaque in blood vessels. The epidemiologic studies, in which participants are surveyed about past nutritional habits, suggest that vitamin E reduced the risk of heart disease for both men and women. A Finnish study found that vitamin C reduced mortality from heart disease for women only. Large randomized studies may further elucidate the role of anti-oxidants.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1995
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Homocyst(e)ine and Cardiovascular Disease: A Critical Review of the Epidemiologic Evidence
Article Abstract:
An overview of research indicates that elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. While the connection is very strong, homocysteine has not actually been proven to be a cause of the disease, only an associated risk factor.This is independent of other, better known risk factors such as smoking, obesity, hypertension and others. However, nutritional therapy with folic acid, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 reduces homocysteine levels, and clinical trials are ongoing to determine if this simple, inexpensive form of therapy will have a significant effect on reducing sickness and death.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1999
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
- Abstracts: A new era of cardiovascular disease epidemiology. Carrier screening for gaucher disease. Gene discovery in venous thrombosis
- Abstracts: The semeiology of arthritis: discriminating between patients on the basis of their symptoms. Relation between heel position and the distribution of forefoot plantar pressures and skin callosities in rheumatoid arthritis
- Abstracts: Effects of naso-gastric tube feeding on the nutritional status of children with cancer. Child malnutrition in poor smallholder households in rural Kenya: an in-depth situation analysis
- Abstracts: Granular cell tumors of the vulva. Brachial artery rupture complicating a pregnancy with neurofibromatosis: a case report