Walk your way to a healthier life

From ksltv.com

SALT LAKE CITY — Is one of your New Year’s resolutions to exercise more? Maybe you just want to get out of a sedentary lifestyle and start moving more. In that case, try a walking routine.

Let’s Get Moving host Maria Shilaos spoke with Dr. Julia Kammel, a sports medicine physician with Intermountain Health, to learn how we can walk our way to better health with just a few simple steps.

According to Kammel, walking can help strengthen your immune system, relieve arthritis pain, manage diabetes and high blood pressure, and more.

“We encourage everyone to walk as much as they’re able to, even if they can just walk three minutes a day,” Kammel said. “It doesn’t have to be all at once.”

What does a healthy walking routine look like?

To start, get a pair of shoes that are comfortable and not too tight. And make sure you’re well hydrated before the walk.

“Something that some people may not think about or focus on is just having a relaxed body posture, letting the shoulders drop, and looking forward with the chin up so your neck doesn’t get tired during the walking,” Kammel said.

Kammel also suggested loosening up the muscles and gently rolling your feet so that you’re not putting too much pressure on your joints.

Walking inside vs. walking outside

Walking can help strengthen your immune system, relieve arthritis pain, manage diabetes and high blood pressure, and more. (Canva)

You can take walks practically anywhere depending on what works best for you. If you love the outdoors, take your walk outside.

“Getting a little bit of sunlight can be very helpful for your circadian rhythm, and being around nature can be incredibly helpful for your mood as well,” Kammel said.

If you prefer to walk on a treadmill at your neighborhood gym, that works just as well.

Does distance matter?

Both short – and long–distance walks have their own benefits. However, Kammel said the intensity of the walk is more important than the distance, which is why she encouraged brisk walking.

“Even if you’re doing short walks but maybe you’re walking a little bit faster, that can be really helpful for your health,” Kammel said.

In order to reach the ideal level of intensity, it helps to not push too much too fast, but just enough.

“A good guide for that is trying to push it enough so that you can still carry on a conversation, but you’re a little bit out of breath while you’re trying to do it,” Kammel said.

https://ksltv.com/719527/walk-your-way-to-a-healthier-life/ 

Certain foods may cut risk for rheumatoid arthritis

From mcknightsseniorliving.com

Moderate alcohol consumption and eating oily fish, fruits, and cereals may reduce the risk for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), according to a review published online Nov. 26 in Nutrients.

Yuanyuan Dong, from the School of Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom, and colleagues conducted a systematic literature review and meta-analysis to assess dietary factors and RA risk.

Based on 30 included studies (2.99 million participants; 9,677 RA cases), the researchers found that each two-unit increase per week in total alcohol intake was linked to a 4% risk reduction (moderate certainty), while beer consumption was associated with a 10% reduction per two-unit increase per week (very low certainty). A 3% decrease in seropositive RA risk was seen with each two-unit increase per week in total alcohol intake (moderate certainty). Reduced risk was also seen with increased intakes of fruit (per 80 g/day: 5 percent reduction; moderate certainty) and cereals (per 30 g/day: 3 percent reduction; moderate certainty). However, tea consumption was associated with a 4% increased risk for RA per additional cup/day (moderate certainty). There were nonlinear associations seen for total coffee, vegetables, oily fish and vitamin D supplementation. 

“Optimizing dietary intake of certain food components may reduce RA risk, despite moderate-quality evidence,” the authors write. “Further research is needed to confirm these associations and explore whether specific dietary patterns or nutrients could emerge as a viable strategy for RA prevention.” 

https://www.mcknightsseniorliving.com/news/certain-foods-may-cut-risk-for-rheumatoid-arthritis/

When you feel it in your bones – managing arthritis pain in colder weather

From johnsoncountypost.com

People with inflammatory arthritis or osteoarthritis experience some pain on a daily basis. However, the winter months can pose extra challenges to arthritis pain management because the colder temperatures can aggravate the condition.

How does cold weather affect arthritis?

While there isn’t one definitive answer as to why colder temperatures aggravate arthritis symptoms, experts are clear on how it happens, including the following:

• Dropping barometric pressure can expand the tissues in and around your joints.
• Cold temperatures can thicken the synovial fluid that lubricates and cushions your joints.
• Lower pressure and temperatures can make your nerves extra sensitive.

Strategies for managing arthritis symptoms

No matter what the time of year and temperature, these are helpful tips to follow during all seasons if you have arthritis, but especially as the colder weather approaches:

Alternate heat and cold:

• Using warmth, such as applying heating pads to aching joints and taking hot baths or showers, can help decrease pain. Be careful not to burn yourself. Use heating pads for no more than 20 minutes at a time.
• Cold therapy, such as applying ice packs to sore muscles, can relieve pain and decrease inflammation after exercise.

Get your vitamin D: In certain parts of the country, many people don’t get enough of the “sunshine vitamin” because of the higher prevalence of cold or rainy days. Even in warmer climates, many people have a vitamin D deficiency—especially in the winter. Choose a good-quality vitamin D supplement if necessary.

Keep your joints moving: Do gentle stretches that move your joints through their full range of motion regularly — every day if possible. Movement can decrease your pain and stiffness, improve your range of motion, strengthen your muscles, and build your stamina.

Know your limits: Balance activity and rest, and don’t overdo anything. If you’re going through a flare, be easy on yourself and don’t force your body to do anything that hurts.

Manage your weight: Being overweight can worsen arthritis and contribute to more pain. Making gradual lifestyle changes you stick to can result in effective, long-term weight loss.

Massage can temporarily relieve pain and joint stiffness. Make sure your massage therapist knows where your arthritis hurts the most.

Mindfulness practices: Meditating, stretching, deep breathing, listening to music, being in nature, and journaling are all great practices for induced relaxation. Do whatever helps you relax.

Practice good posture: A physical therapist can show you how to sit, stand and move correctly.

Stay warm:

• Dressing in thermal layers when you head outdoors in cold weather.
• Insulate your extremities. For example, warm your hands and wrists with gloves and liners and shield your ankles and feet with thick socks.
• Consider using a weighted or electric blanket for a chilly home to keep you warm and cosy.

Stop smoking: Smoking causes stress on connective tissues, which can increase arthritis pain. If you smoke, take this opportunity to quit. Your whole health will thank you for it.

https://johnsoncountypost.com/2024/12/16/a-message-from-adventhealth-when-you-feel-it-in-your-bones-managing-arthritis-pain-in-colder-weather-249146/ 

Top doctor shares best anti-inflammatory foods to ease arthritis pain

From getsurrey.co.uk

Arthritis is a group of diseases involving inflammation that makes your joints hurt, swell and become stiff. But an anti-inflammatory diet can help reduce the pain - here are five foods to eat

                                                                                                                                               (Image: Getty)

Arthritis, a group of diseases characterised by inflammation causing pain, swelling, tenderness and warmth in the joints, can be managed with an anti-inflammatory diet, says Dr Sunni Patel from Dish Dash Deets. "While they may not provide a cure for arthritis, incorporating these foods into your diet can potentially help ease symptoms and improve overall joint health," he told Express.co.uk.

He then listed the top five anti-inflammatory foods that could help.

1. Fatty fish: Fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and trout are packed with omega-3 fatty acids which can reduce joint pain and stiffness in people with arthritis, explained Dr Patel. He suggested having at least two servings of oily fish per week, each serving being about 85 to 120 grams, to get a "good dose" of omega-3 fatty acids.

2. Turmeric: The bright yellow colour of turmeric comes from curcumin, a compound with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

"There is no specific daily recommendation for turmeric, but including it in your diet (paired with black pepper to increase its absorption) as a spice or in dishes regularly can be beneficial," said the doctor. The World Health Organization (WHO) has determined zero to three milligrams per kilogram of body weight to be an acceptable daily intake, reports the Express.

3. Ginger. Whether you're a fan of adding it to your tea or spicing up your curry with it, ginger is known for its natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease arthritis pain. The doctor suggests incorporating one to two teaspoons of fresh ginger or ginger powder into your daily meals.

4. Berries, including strawberries and blueberries, are also packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. These properties could help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, explained Dr Patel.

He advised: "Aim for at least one cup of berries per day as part of your fruit intake. This provides a good source of antioxidants."

5. Leafy greens such as spinach, kale and Swiss chard are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help fight inflammation. As such, the doctor recommends adding a serving of leafy greens to your daily dishes, whether in salads or smoothies.

While the quantity of each anti-inflammatory food needed to reap its benefits can differ based on factors like age, gender, activity level, and overall diet, these guidelines offer general advice, concluded the expert.

https://www.getsurrey.co.uk/news/health/top-doctor-shares-best-anti-30572469

The effects of cold weather on your joints

From northside.com

By Dr. Adam Land 

Over the last few weeks, you may have noticed the days getting shorter with college football in full swing. We are trading our pumpkin-spiced lattes for Christmas blend. 

As we move from the warm months of fall into the cooler, often damp months of winter in north Georgia, we can count on these exciting seasonal changes. However, there are other changes ushered in by the cold we wish we could avoid. 

As an orthopaedic surgeon, I am used to seeing patients with joint pain throughout the year. After all, arthritis knows no season. However, after 13 years, I have learned to expect an influx of patients with the first few days of cooler, damp weather. Some of these patients are experiencing flares of their arthritis. Others have already undergone joint replacement and are wondering why they are suddenly having pain again. 

As a physician, I want all my patients to be happy. So, what can I do when I can’t change the weather? 

First, I think it’s important to understand the association between lower temperatures and joint pain. Although science cannot definitively explain the relationship, there are multiple factors that all likely contribute to joint discomfort. When the barometric pressure drops, our muscles, tendons and other soft tissues often swell slightly. In the confined space of our bodies, this may manifest as joint pain.

In addition, cold often leads to the constriction of blood vessels in our extremities as our body attempts to conserve heat in our core. The result may be stiff/painful joints. Finally, in cold weather, the natural fluid our joints make may thicken and lead to stiffness and pain.

What can be done to alleviate these symptoms? Some remedies may be self-explanatory. For example, in lower temperatures, dressing warmly and using heat (i.e., a warm bath or shower, heating pad, etc.) to promote blood flow to the extremities may help. It’s also important to keep our bodies moving. Our joints are designed for motion, so getting moderate physical activity multiple days a week is a great way to alleviate pain.

In a season where gluttony is usually celebrated, we should also be mindful of what we eat. Our excessively processed American diets often contribute to pain by promoting inflammation. Avoiding highly processed foods and beverages (especially with added sugars) and eating more whole foods can help. Lean, grass-fed beef, wild-caught fish, and fresh fruits and vegetables can supply anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients that can help you feel better and stay healthy. Try adding ginger, spicy peppers or turmeric to your diet. These are powerful foods with anti-inflammatory properties.

Finally, if joint pains persist, it may be time to see an orthopaedic specialist. X-rays may reveal the underlying cause of persistent joint pain. Even in cases of advanced arthritis, there are many non-surgical options that can help you live an active lifestyle with less pain. NSAID pain relievers (both over-the-counter and prescription), physical therapy, aquatic therapy, and joint injections can all play a role in relieving joint discomfort caused by arthritis.

In summary, don’t let the cooler weather get you down! Stay active, eat healthy, and if joint pain persists, see your health care specialist.

https://www.northside.com/about/news-center/article-details/the-effects-of-cold-weather-on-your-joints

One type of snack has so many vitamins it prevents diabetes, arthritis and heart disease

From msn.com

There are numerous snacks that are rich in vitamins and can aid in the changes you wish to make to your body. However, there's one snack that is particularly beneficial for supporting thyroid function.

Brazil nuts have been ranked 16th on Healthline's list of 50 super healthy foods. The nut is described as: "nutrient-rich and have a smooth, buttery texture. The nutrients they contain support thyroid function, and they are a good source of the mineral selenium. 

Selenium is an essential trace mineral and brazil nuts are actually one of the best natural sources of it. The mineral helps produce thyroid hormones and maintain metabolism. Having just one to two brazil nuts a day can be enough to provide your daily selenium needs. Not only that, Brazil nuts are high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which support heart health.

This also reduced inflammation and help combat chronic inflammation linked to diseases like arthritis and diabetes. The benefits don't stop there, they also have omega-3 fatty acids which increases skin elasticity! So eating these nuts can help with aging. Health guru Dr Michael Mosley has revealed nuts are his main snack. When asked by the Sunday Times about the food he eats every day, he said: " Selenium is an essential trace mineral and brazil nuts are actually one of the best natural sources of it.

This mineral aids in the production of thyroid hormones and maintains metabolism. Consuming just one to two brazil nuts a day can meet your daily selenium needs.

Additionally, Brazil nuts are high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which promote heart health. They also reduce inflammation and help fight chronic inflammation associated with diseases like arthritis and diabetes.

                                                                                                                                   © Alamy/PA

The benefits don't end there, they also contain omega-3 fatty acids which increase skin elasticity!, reports Surrey Live.

Eating these nuts can aid in the ageing process, according to health expert Dr Michael Mosley. The Sunday Times asked him about his daily food intake and he revealed: "I make a point of always keeping a variety of nuts and seeds in stock, including almonds, cashews, Brazil nuts, walnuts, sunflower seeds, pine nuts, chia and sesame seeds. Nuts are rich in fibre to feed your microbiome and are an excellent source of healthy natural fat."

If you're considering adding another nut to your diet, a specialist has recommended one that he consumes almost every day for heart health.

Dr Kevin Rabii, DO, FACC, a cardiologist with Memorial Hermann, told Parade that our dietary choices can influence risk factors for diseases like heart disease. He stated that there's one nut he always has available due to its benefits for heart health.

"I enjoy almonds because they are an easy, healthy and delicious snack," he says. "I try to keep a small container with some almonds in my car or at work for when I am feeling hungry. There is no preparation involved, and it can keep you from choosing unhealthier snacks."

https://www.msn.com/en-gb/health/other/one-type-of-snack-has-so-many-vitamins-it-prevents-diabetes-arthritis-and-heart-disease/ar-AA1vqFGT?apiversion=v2&noservercache=1&domshim=1&renderwebcomponents=1&wcseo=1&batchservertelemetry=1&noservertelemetry=1

Do Rainy Days Really Cause Joint Pain?

From hartfordhealthcare.org

If you’ve ever claimed, “I can feel a storm coming in my bones,” you’re not alone. Many people believe rain worsens joint pain, especially if arthritis is in the picture.

But is it fact — or just folklore? We turned to an expert for answers. 

Yes, rainy days can cause joint pain.

“It’s not a myth: Rainy, damp weather really can magnify joint stiffness and pain,” says Mark Shekhman, MD, an orthopedic surgeon at the Bone & Joint Institute at Hartford Hospital.

That’s especially true if your joints are already inflamed or have less cushioning — due to arthritis, an old injury or any other reason.

It all has to do with barometric pressure.

“The drop in barometric pressure ahead of a storm causes fluid shifts and pressure changes in your joints,” says Dr. Shekman.

Why? As you may recall from high school physics, air is surprisingly heavy. For example, right now, the air around you is pressing about 15 pounds of weight onto each square inch of your body.

But this air pressure, aka barometric pressure, fluctuates. Before rainy weather, it usually drops. With less resistance, the tissues in your body expand — including in your joints. And that can lead to swelling and pain.

Some people notice joint pain even before it starts to rain.

Who needs a weather app?

Barometric pressure initially begins dropping before a storm, not just during. So for all of the above reasons, your joints may start reacting before a storm too.

“Many people with arthritis of their joints can anticipate a storm coming, sort of like an internal barometer,” says Dr. Shekhman.

Cold weather can make things worse.

Ever notice how you tend to feel more stiff and sore in the morning than at any other time of day? It’s because your muscles are cold — in that case, from lack of activity over the past seven or eight hours of sleep.

But when the air around you is cold — say, because it’s winter in New England — it can have a similar effect, at any and all times of day. Of course, the snowbirds in your life already know this.

“Cold weather can cause more pain and stiffness in achy joints,” says Dr. Shekhman. “That’s why a trip to Florida or dry climate like Arizona can be a desired getaway for some people with arthritis.”

How can you ease rainy day joint pain?

First, stay warm. Think: cosy layers, heating pads and a warm bath.

Second, if you’ve already discussed it with your doctor, consider taking an over-the-counter or prescribed medication.

Third, resist the couch. Rainy days may feel synonymous with weighted blankets, but inactivity will only increase your discomfort.

“For individuals with arthritis, lack of regular movement can worsen symptoms over time, creating a vicious cycle of inactivity and pain,” says Dr. Shekhman.

Instead, try gentle stretches to warm up your joints. Or if you’re feeling extra ambitious, bundle up in rain gear and go for a walk.

Just keep an eye out for puddles.

https://hartfordhealthcare.org/about-us/news-press/news-detail?articleid=60207&publicId=395

Artery procedure may ease knee arthritis without surgery

From upi.com

Blocking blood flow to the site of knee arthritis can reduce pain and potentially prevent the need for knee replacement surgery, a new study says.

The procedure, called genicular artery embolization (GAE), improved patients' quality of life by 87% and their pain by 71% at a one-year follow-up, researchers report.

"Our study found that GAE can effectively reduce knee pain and improve quality of life early after the treatment, with these benefits being maintained over the long term, especially for people who haven't had success with other treatments like physical therapy or pain medications," said lead researcher Dr. Florian Nima Fleckenstein, an interventional radiologist at Charité - University Hospital Berlin in Germany.

The genicular arteries are six leg arteries that meet to form a network around the knee joint, researchers said in background notes. These arteries are altered in patients with knee arthritis.

Researchers reasoned that blocking blood flow from these arteries at the site of knee pain could help reduce inflammation, continual wear down of cartilage and the growth of new nerves that increase pain sensation.

Blocking blood flow to the site of knee arthritis can reduce pain and potentially prevent the need for knee replacement surgery, a new study says. Photo by Adobe Stock/HealthDay News

For the study, researchers performed GAE on more than 400 people ages 40 to 90 with moderate to severe knee arthritis that hadn't responded to other treatments.

The procedure involves injecting small particles into specific blood vessels to block blood flow, researchers said.

Results showed that the procedure was particularly effective in the early stages of knee arthritis.

The findings will be presented Tuesday at the Radiological Society of North America annual meeting in Chicago. Such research should be considered preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal.

"This could potentially offer a new lease on life for many patients who suffer from debilitating pain and mobility issues caused by osteoarthritis," Fleckenstein said in a meeting news release. "GAE has the potential to reduce the need for more invasive surgeries, lower health care costs and significantly improve the quality of life for countless individuals suffering from knee osteoarthritis."

https://www.upi.com/Health_News/2024/12/03/artery-procedure-knee-arthritis-avoid-surgery/8931733230202/ 

Eating oily fish, fruits and cereals and drinking one pint of beer a week can cut risk of rheumatoid arthritis

From medicalxpress.com/news

Moderate alcohol consumption and a higher intake of fruits, oily fish, and cereals are linked to a lower risk of rheumatoid arthritis, while tea and coffee may be linked to an increased risk, according to new research from the University of Leeds.

A systematic review has looked at 30 different studies—between them involving nearly 10,000 people with rheumatoid arthritis—carried out between 2000 and 2024. The findings are published in Nutrients.

The work sheds fresh light on the relationship between 32 different food groups, drinks and nutrients and the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, with strong evidence that some food groups could help stave off the symptoms.

The findings show that some dietary factors—including oily fish and Vitamin D—could have a protective role and help stop people developing the disease. Eating more cereals, including whole grains and breakfast cereals and fruit seems to be linked to a lower risk of rheumatoid arthritis, while drinking more tea could be linked to a higher risk.

                                                               Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

But the results are not straightforward, according to research author Yuanyuan Dong, a Ph.D. researcher in the university's School of Food Science and Nutrition. For example drinking two units of alcohol a week—the equivalent to a pint of lower-strength lager or beer or a standard glass of wine a week—may have a protective effect, but excessive consumption increases the risk of developing the condition.

The protective effect of alcohol diminished with higher intake, disappearing entirely at approximately 7.5 units of alcohol per week—about four pints of lower-strength beer/lager/cider per week or 3.5 standard glasses of wine.

Dong said, "Rheumatoid arthritis is a typical multifactorial disease, driven by both genetic and environmental factors. My research investigates whether dietary factors contribute to the risk of rheumatoid arthritis by increasing inflammation and affecting the immune system.

"These findings offer a deeper understanding of how diet can impact rheumatoid arthritis risk and suggest potential dietary modifications for disease prevention and management."

And while every cup of tea drunk per day increased the risk by 4%, the baseline risk from drinking tea was low, meaning that even with the 4% increase the overall risk remained low. Tea has many health benefits, the researchers stressed, and people should consider their overall diet and lifestyle when making choices about what to eat and drink.

More research could help even pinpoint how different types of tea might influence autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, Dong added.

The researchers are arguing that "one-size-fits-all" advice to follow a general "healthy diet" is not helpful for people who have autoimmune diseases, instead urging a more tailored approach that fits their specific needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a common autoimmune disease—caused by the immune system attacking healthy cells by mistake. Its symptoms include joint pain and stiffness, swelling and difficulty grasping or holding things. It can lead to long-term disability, but early diagnosis and treatment can significantly mitigate the effects. It affects half a million people in the UK and is more common among older people and women.

Foods associated with a reduced rheumatoid arthritis risk:

• Oily fish, Vitamin D, and vegetables showed potential protective effects against rheumatoid arthritis development, but the association was non-linear with evidence showing moderate intake decreases risk but the effect plateaus or even diminishes if a person's intake is increased beyond this level.
• Increased consumption of fruits and cereals was linked to a reduced risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Low-to-moderate alcohol consumption (specifically beer) was associated with a reduced risk of rheumatoid arthritis, with each two unit/week increase in alcohol linked to a 4% risk reduction. However the protective effect diminished with higher intake, the risk of RA began to rise once reached around 7.5 units of alcohol per week, indicating no protective effect at higher levels of consumption.

Foods associated with a higher rheumatoid arthritis risk:

• Tea consumption was associated with a 4% increased risk per additional cup/day.
• Coffee also showed a less pronounced association with increased rheumatoid arthritis risk, suggesting the need for further investigation.

Co-author and Ph.D. supervisor Janet Cade, Professor of Nutritional Epidemiology, added, "This is a comprehensive study taking in the results of thirty different large-scale studies looking into the effects of diet on risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. The results are promising, showing that by eating higher amounts of foods like oily fish, cereals, vegetables and the nutrient vitamin D, people may be able to lower their chances of developing this painful and debilitating condition.

"It is also interesting to see that drinking a moderate amount of alcohol—the equivalent of one pint of lower-strength lager or beer, or one glass of wine a week—can lower rheumatoid arthritis risk. However, tea and coffee consumption may increase risk a little.

"More research will help us pinpoint exactly why these foods have the effect we have observed and develop tailored nutritional advice for people living with rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases."

https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-12-oily-fish-fruits-cereals-pint.html 

Winter Joint Care: Doctor Tips On Managing Arthritis Symptoms And Mobility Challenges During Colder Months

From english.jagran.com

Dr Himanshu Tyagi, Additional Director of Orthopaedics at Fortis Greater Noida, shares his expert advice on managing arthritis symptoms and mobility challenges during colder months 

The onset of winter triggers arthritis in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis to some extent; both of them deteriorate in the winter season. If a patient has knee pain because of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, which is generalised body pain or joint pain because of inflammation in the body, then special care is required during the winter season.

Avoid Sleeping In An Excessively Cold Atmosphere

Normally a person with rheumatoid or osteoarthritis should avoid sleeping in an excessively cold atmosphere or in a room where there is no heater. So, one important thing is the body should be adequately warmed; otherwise, in the morning the patient might feel excessive stiffness. Always use a blanket or a heater in the room during the winter season.

Warm Massage To Avoid Stiffness

Oil massage or warm massage should be done before sleeping. If the patient has supposing knee pain or hand stiffness, then a massage with hot oil will definitely help.

                                                                                              (Image Credits: Canva)

Take Right Anti-Inflammatory Medicines

The dose of anti-inflammatory medicines, in the case of rheumatoid patients, might require an increase during the winter season. Before the commencement of winter, the patient should always consult his or her physician or rheumatologist so that the medicine dose can be adjusted accordingly. Also, sometimes what happens is the requirement of medicine or the SOS painkiller also goes up during the winter season. The patient might feel more than normal pain during the winter season. So not only the dose of DMARDs, basically the rheumatoid medicines, needs to be adjusted, but sometimes an occasional painkiller might also be required to be added.

Regular Exercise

One more important thing that patients should always do is regular exercise. In the morning, 10 minutes of all joint mobilization exercises should be done. All joint mobilization exercises mean the exercises that involve all the joints: hand, wrist, shoulder, knee and back. Additionally, wear comfortable and flexible clothes to allow the movement of all joints, and make sure you are doing these exercises in warm weather.
 
There are a few other general instructions, such as not wearing excessively loose clothes; such clothes cause falls due to their flowy nature, and the elderly are more vulnerable because a fracture might happen because of the fall. Use anti-skid mattresses and carpets for the elderly so the chances of falling off the bed due to pain can be reduced, which can lead to fractures. Following these tips and precautions, arthritis patients can manage mobility challenges and extra pain during the cold weather.

https://english.jagran.com/lifestyle/winter-joint-care-doctor-tips-on-managing-arthritis-symptoms-and-mobility-challenges-during-colder-months-10203988

Fruits And Cereal Can Reduce Arthritis: Study

From etvbharat.com

Eating higher amounts of foods like oily fish, cereals, vegetables and the nutrient vitamin D can lower the chances of developing Arthritis

Moderate alcohol intake and eating more fruit, oily fish and cereals are linked to lower risk of rheumatoid arthritis, while tea and coffee may be linked to increased risk, new research shows. A systematic review has looked at 30 different studies – between them involving nearly 10,000 people with rheumatoid arthritis – carried out between 2000 and 2024. The work sheds fresh light on the relationship between 32 different food groups, drinks and nutrients and the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, with strong evidence that some food groups could help stave off the symptoms.

The findings show that some dietary factors – including oily fish and Vitamin D - could have a protective role and help stop people developing the disease. Eating more cereals including whole grains and breakfast cereals and fruit seems to be linked to a lower risk of rheumatoid arthritis, while drinking more tea could be linked to a higher risk. But the results are not straightforward, according to research author Yuanyuan Dong, a PhD researcher in the university’s School of Food Science and Nutrition. For example drinking two units of alcohol a week – the equivalent to a pint of lower-strength lager or beer or a standard glass of wine a week - may have a protective effect, but excessive consumption increases the risk of developing the condition.

"My research investigates whether dietary factors contribute to the risk of rheumatoid arthritis by increasing inflammation and affecting the immune system," said Yuanyuan Dong. The protective effect of alcohol diminished with higher intake, disappearing entirely at approximately 7.5 units of alcohol per week - about four pints of lower-strength beer/lager/cider per week or 3.5 standard glasses of wine. “Rheumatoid arthritis is a typical multifactorial disease, driven by both genetic and environmental factors. My research investigates whether dietary factors contribute to the risk of rheumatoid arthritis by increasing inflammation and affecting the immune system. “These findings offer a deeper understanding of how diet can impact rheumatoid arthritis risk and suggest potential dietary modifications for disease prevention and management," Dong said.

And while every cup of tea drunk per day increased the risk by four per cent, the baseline risk from drinking tea was low, meaning that even with the 4% increase the overall risk remained low. Tea has many health benefits, the researchers stressed, and people should consider their overall diet and lifestyle when making choices about what to eat and drink. The results are promising, showing that by eating higher amounts of foods like oily fish, cereals, vegetables and the nutrient vitamin D, people may be able to lower their chances of developing this painful and debilitating condition. "More research could even pinpoint how different types of tea might influence autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis," Dong added. The researchers are arguing that “one-size-fits-all” advice to follow a general “healthy diet” is not helpful for people who have autoimmune diseases, instead urging a more tailored approach that fits their specific needs.

                                                                                                                           (Freepik)

Fruits you must include if you are struggling with Arthritis

Some of the anti-inflammatory fruits are best to manage arthritis. The natural sweeteners, fruits have substantial dose of antioxidants, fibre, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Some fruits have components that lower inflammation in body that is associated with arthritis.

Althouth all fruits have health benefits but some have more disease-fighting properties. Here is the list of fruits that can help in managing or curing arthritis.

Tart cherries

The dark red colour of cherries and their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits are from the flavonoid anthocyanin. Studies have found that tart cherries may relieve join pain in people with osteoarthritis and lower the risk of flares in those with gout.

Strawberries

Naturally low in sugar, strawberries have more vitamin C than an orange. It can lower the risk for gout, high blood pressure and cholesterol issues. Strawberries are also anti-inflammatory and have antioxidant properties. They are also a good source of folic acid.

Avocado

With its high concentration on anti-inflammatory monounsaturated fat, avocados are also rich in the carotenoid lutein. It is a good source of vitamin E which help reduce the risk of joint damage seen in early osteoarthritis.

Watermelon
Studies show that eating watermelon reduces the inflammatory marker CRP. High in the carotenoid beta-cryptoxanthin, watermelon can reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis. It is full of lycopene, an antioxidant that may help protect against certain cancers and lower heart attack risk, notes a study.

https://www.etvbharat.com/en/!health/foods-to-treat-and-reduce-arthritis-enn24112901486