Cartilage loss in your knees, one of the hallmarks of osteoarthritis, is associated with low levels of vitamin D. So if you’re struggling with joint pain due to osteo-arthritis, get your vitamin D levels tested, then optimize them using safe sun exposure or indoor tanning on a safe tanning bed. Supplementation with vitamin D3 can also be considered.
In addition, when exposed to sunshine, your skin produces two types of sulfur: cholesterol sulfate, and vitamin D3 sulfate. Sulfur plays a vital role in the structure and biological activity of both proteins and enzymes. If you don’t have sufficient amounts of sulfur in your body, this deficiency can cascade into many health problems, including impacting joints and connective tissues.
Make sure you’re getting high amounts of sulfur-rich foods in your diet, such as high-quality (organic, grass-fed) beef and poultry. Dr. Stephanie Seneff of MIT recommends soaking your body in magnesium sulfate (Epsom Salt) baths to compensate and counter-act sulfur deficiency. She uses 1/4 cup in a tub of water, twice a week, for 20 minutes. It’s particularly useful if you have joint pain or arthritis.
As for supplements, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is also an option. MSM is an organic form of sulfur and a potent antioxidant, naturally found in many plants.
For dealing with joint pain, Avoid anti-inflammatory drugs like non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) and analgesics, like Tylenol, which are often recommended to osteoarthritic patients. Chronic use of these types of medications is associated with significant, and very serious, side effects such as kidney and/or liver damage. Safer and effective options include:
Eggshell Membrane: the unique protective barrier between the egg white and the mineralized eggshell. The membrane contains elastin, a protein that supports cartilage health, and collagen, a fibrous protein that supports cartilate and connective tissue strength and elasticity. It also contains transforming growth factor-b, a protein that supports tissue rejuvenation, along with other amino acids and structural components that support stability and flexibility of joints by providing them with the building blocks needed to build cartilage.
Hyaluronic Acid (HA): This key component of your cartilage is responsible for moving nutrients into your cells and moving waste out. One of its most important functions is the retention of water … second only to providing nutrients and removing waste from cells that lack a direct blood supply, such as cartilage cells. Unfortunately, the process of normal aging reduces the amount of HA synthesized by your body. Oral hyaluronic acid supplements may help cushion joints after 2-3 mos.
Boswellia: Also known as “Indian Frankincense”, this Indian herb is one treatment I’ve found to be particularly useful against arthritis inflammation and pain. With sustained use, boswellia may help with steady blood flow to your joints, boosting flexibility and strength.
Termeric/Curcumin: A study found that taking turmeric extracts each day for six weeks is as effective as ibuprofen for relieving knee osteoarthritis pain. This is likely related to the anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin – the pigment in turmeric spice.
Animal-Based Omega 3 Fats: These are excellent for arthritis & brain function because omega-3s are well known to help reduce inflammation. Look for quality, animal-based sources such as fish oil like Innate Choice.
Astaxanthin: An anti-inflammatory antioxidant that is gentler, less concentrated, and without the negative side effects of steroidal and non-steroidal drugs. It works for a high percentage of people. One study found it decreased pain in 80 percent of arthritis sufferers.
