10 healthful turmeric recipes for arthritis

From medicalnewstoday.com

Turmeric is a spice that has anti-inflammatory properties. Many people believe that it can relieve arthritis symptoms, especially when paired with other inflammation-fighting foods. This article looks at 10 ways to use turmeric in tasty, healthful recipes.

People have used turmeric for a variety of health conditions for thousands of years. One of its compounds, curcumin, may have anti-inflammatory properties. Because inflammation is one of the causes of arthritis symptoms, turmeric may help people with arthritis pain and stiffness.

The Arthritis Foundation recommend turmeric for some people with arthritis. A systematic review and meta-analysis from 2016 found that taking 1,000 milligrams (mg) of curcumin for up to 12 weeks helped relieve pain and inflammation from arthritis. However, the authors note that the study was not large enough to produce definitive results.
Because turmeric is a cooking spice, people can use it in a variety of ways to flavour foods and beverages. Using turmeric in recipes can add inflammation-fighting power to meals and drinks throughout the day.

Drinks

1. Turmeric tea

One of the most basic ways to consume turmeric is to make it into a tea.

To make turmeric tea, add a teaspoon (tsp) of turmeric to 4 cups of hot water and simmer for 10 minutes. Pure turmeric powder, grated turmeric, or ground, dried turmeric all work well.
If any flakes, grains or pieces of turmeric remain, strain the tea before drinking it.
People can try adding other spices or sweeteners to the tea for flavour, such as:

• 1 tsp of honey
• 1 tsp of ground cinnamon for flavour and extra anti-inflammatory effects
• fresh or dried ginger for flavour and extra anti-inflammatory effects
• freshly squeezed juice from a lemon or orange to add antioxidants and flavour

2. Golden milk

Golden milk is a milk-based liquid with added turmeric, which gives it a golden and creamy appearance. People may use dairy milk or a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut milk or almond milk.
This golden milk recipe suggests adding 1 tsp of turmeric to 2 cups of the milk of choice. Try adding a pinch of ground black pepper, which could enhance the effects of the turmeric.
Adding black pepper to golden milk may help the body absorb turmeric. A review of curcumin and health says that a compound found in black pepper can help increase the bioavailability of turmeric by up to 2,000%.
Many recipes suggest that adding extra fat, such as coconut or almond oil to the milk, may help the body absorb the turmeric better.
People can also add half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder, 1 tsp of honey, or 1 tsp of maple syrup for taste.

People can drink golden milk or use it as a base for other recipes, such as soups or dressings.

3. Golden milk espresso or coffee latte

Coffee lovers or those looking for a caffeine kick can add golden milk to their coffee. Prepare 6 ounces (oz) of warm golden milk as directed and add 2 oz of freshly brewed espresso or 4 oz of fresh coffee.

Breakfast or brunch

4. Turmeric smoothies

Turmeric blends well into many fruit smoothies. People who already have a favourite morning smoothie can try adding 1–2 tsp of turmeric powder to their recipe.
For a morning anti-inflammatory smoothie and an antioxidant boost, try this recipe. It includes a range of ingredients that help fight inflammation, including:

• berries
• yogurt
• spinach
• oatmeal
• ginger

This recipe is another take on a turmeric smoothie. It includes banana, vanilla, ginger, cinnamon, and optional sweetener and provides a sweet and spicy flavour.

5. Turmeric golden milk oatmeal

The Arthritis Foundation recommend eating oatmeal as part of an anti-inflammatory, high fibre diet.
Adding turmeric to oatmeal can increase its anti-inflammatory power. This recipe incorporates golden milk into rolled oats for a filling breakfast.
For an extra inflammation-fighting boost, add blueberries or strawberries. According to research, they are rich in anthocyanin, a flavonoid that has potent anti-inflammatory power, and antioxidants to help fight infections.

6. Scrambled eggs with turmeric

Eggs are a versatile food, and adding turmeric to them is an easy way for a person to increase their intake of this spice.
People can add 1 tsp of turmeric powder to their regular eggs, or follow a turmeric scrambled egg recipe, such as this one.

Lunch

7. Green salad with turmeric dressing

Leafy green vegetables are nutritious and are among the best vegetables for people with arthritis to eat, according to the Arthritis Foundation. A base of spinach, kale, or swiss chard combined with other veggies, such as carrots and peppers, will create a filling salad that can help fight inflammation.
This recipe for an anti-inflammatory turmeric dressing can further enhance the inflammation-fighting power of vegetables. It includes a coconut cream and olive oil base combined with other seasonings and flavours.

8. Carrot, ginger, and turmeric soup

The Arthritis Foundation recommend ginger for its inflammation-fighting power. This creamy soup includes both turmeric and ginger along with carrots and lemon.
Pair this soup with a salad or fresh fruit for a filling lunch that could help with arthritis symptoms.

Dinner

9. Coconut curry turmeric chicken

This recipe uses anti-inflammatory turmeric with chicken thighs, coconut milk, and cauliflower rice for a meal that's both anti-inflammatory and paleo-friendly.

10. Ginger turmeric meatballs

Turmeric works well in meatballs. It is possible to mix ground or powdered turmeric directly into an existing recipe or try this ginger and turmeric meatball recipe for a different way to make this classic dish.

Add turmeric to everyday recipes

People can experiment with turmeric by adding small amounts of the spice to their favorite recipes.
Turmeric usually works well when added to :

• sauces
• soups
• smoothies
• dressings
• stir fry dishes
• marinades

When trying turmeric for the first time, use a smaller amount, such as a quarter teaspoon per serving, and increase the amount as needed.

Anti-inflammatory diet for arthritis

A person's diet plays an essential role in their body's inflammation level. While turmeric fights inflammation on its own, eating an anti-inflammatory diet can help lower inflammation even further, providing additional relief of arthritis symptoms.

The Arthritis Foundation recommend that people with arthritis adopt an anti-inflammatory diet. However, the specific types of foods vary slightly depending on the type of arthritis a person has.

Foods for rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory arthritis

For rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory arthritis, a person should eat:

• omega-3 fats found in cold-water fatty fish and flaxseeds
• olive oil
• fruits
• vegetables
• nuts
• legumes
• high fibre whole grains, such as oatmeal, brown rice, and barley
• green tea

Foods for osteoarthritis

For osteoarthritis, a healthful diet should include:

• fruits
• vegetables
• legumes
• whole grains
• broccoli, brussels sprouts, and cabbage
• garlic, onion, and leeks

People who have osteoarthritis may also find some symptom relief after achieving a healthy weight. Being overweight can put extra stress on joints and cause more pain.

Foods for gout

People who have gout may wish to follow a different type of diet because certain foods have links to gout attacks. Foods that are high in purine can cause a build-up of uric acid, which causes inflammation and pain.
However, the Arthritis Foundation caution that an overly restrictive diet for gout is not always enough to lower uric acid levels and can be difficult for people to follow.
Nonetheless, some foods to focus on that may help with gout symptoms include:

      cherries

red, blue, and purple berries

coffee

skim milk and low fat dairy

whole grains

vegetables

People with arthritis may wish to avoid foods that promote inflammation, such as:

• sugar
• saturated fats
• trans fats
• omega-6 fats found in some vegetable oils
• alcoholic drinks
• refined carbohydrates
• processed foods

People may also wish to try avoiding gluten and dairy products for a time to see if their arthritis symptoms improve.

Summary

Eating a healthful, anti-inflammatory diet that includes the turmeric may help people manage symptoms of arthritis and promote better health overall.

People should speak with their doctor or nutritionist to determine the types of foods that may be best for them.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325902.php

Arthritis: The best diet to follow to help reduce symptoms of the condition - what is it?

From express.co.uk

ARTHRITIS, or rheumatoid arthritis, is an inflammation of the joints. It can affect one joint or it could affect multiple joints. The common condition can be prevented by following a certain diet, what is it and can it help with symptoms?

Arthritis Foundation said on their website: “One of the most common questions with any form of arthritis have is, ‘is there an arthritis diet?’ Or more to the point, ‘what can I eat to help my joints?’ The answer, fortunately, is that many foods can help. Following a diet low in processed foods and saturated fat and rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts and beans is great for your body.”

What a person eats can help keep their joints and bones healthy. Nutritionist, Nancy Clark said: “Eating an anti-inflammatory diet will help joints.

"We want to go toward more natural, closer to the earth, and less-processed foods, while avoiding fried and processed foods, trans fats, and charred meat, which increases inflammation.
"Foods such as cherries, red peppers, canned salmon, oatmeal and turmeric have been proven to help with joints.”
Known as either the Mediterranean diet, anti-inflammatory diet or the arthritis diet, these foods are the best to consume to help reduce arthritis symptoms:

Fish

Some types of fish are good sources of inflammation-fighting omega-3 fatty acids.

The American Heart Association and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommend three to four ounces of fish, twice a week.

Arthritis: The Mediterranean diet has been proven to help with joint health (Image: Getty Images)

Nuts and seeds
Nuts are filled with inflammation-fighting monounsaturated fat.
Doctor Jose Ordovas, director of nutrition and genomics said: “Multiple studies confirm the role of nuts in an anti-inflammatory diet.”

Fruits and veggies
Fruits and vegetables are loaded with antioxidants.
These chemicals act as at the body’s natural defence system and helps to neutralise unstable molecules called free radicals.
Research has shown that getting the right amount of vitamins aids in preventing inflammatory arthritis and maintain healthy joints.

Olive oil
Olive oil is loaded with heart-healthy fats and have properties similar to non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Doctor Ordovas said: “The compounds found in olive oil inhibits activity of COX enzymes, with a pharmacological actual similar to ibuprofen.”

“Studies have confirmed eating these foods can help lower blood pressure, protect against chronic conditions, help arthritis by curbing inflammation, benefit the joints as well as your heart and lead to weight loss, which makes a huge difference in managing joint pain,” added Arthritis Foundation.
Foods such as kale and walnuts have also proven to help with healthy joints.

Arthritis: Fish contains good sources of inflammation-fighting omega-3 fatty acids (Image: Getty Images)

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1156905/rheumatoid-arthritis-pain-uk-symptoms-mediterranean-diet

Is exercise good for arthritis?

From health.harvard.edu

Q. I have arthritis and my doctor recommended I start exercising, but I'm worried it will make my pain worse. Should I follow her advice?

A. Yes, your doctor is right. Although it may seem counterintuitive to move more when your joints hurt, studies have shown that exercise can reduce arthritis-related pain, fatigue, and stiffness. Exercise is also important for your overall health and can help reduce your risk of heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.

Try to do a mix of different types of exercise, including cardiovascular exercise (such as walking), strength training, stretching, and exercises that help to improve your balance. If you don't normally exercise, make sure your doctor approves before you get started. Your doctor may be able to recommend specific exercises. The Arthritis Foundation also includes tips on its website. To ease into a program, try to work out at the time of day when your symptoms are the most manageable. Always begin slowly and stop if you experience sharp pain, and ask your doctor if you should modify your exercise regimen during symptom flares. Some good exercise options for people with arthritis are water-based exercises, walking and tai chi.

https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/is-exercise-good-for-arthritis

7 Proven health benefits of Turmeric

From orissapost.com

Turmeric might be the best dietary enhancement in existence.
Here are the seven proven benefits of Turmeric to show that it has major benefits for your body and brain.

Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory compound
Chronic inflammation in the body can lead to various maladies. Turmeric is the perfect antidote to reduce inflammation.

Turmeric dramatically increases the antioxidant capacity of the body
Turmeric has incredible antioxidant impacts. It kills free radicals on its own and additionally invigorates the body’s own antioxidant enzymes.

Turmeric boosts brain power and function; lowers risk of brain diseases
Consumption of turmeric increases the flow of various hormones in the brain. It helps in the development of new neurons and battles different degenerative procedures.

Turmeric lowers risk of heart diseases
Turmeric improves the capacity of the endothelium and is a strong anti-inflammatory agent and antioxidant and thus is good for the heart.

Turmeric helps in preventing cancer Turmeric prompts a few changes in the molecular level within the body. Hence it is a preventive measure against cancer and at times can even be used to even treat the deadly disease.

Turmeric may be useful in preventing and treating Alzheimer’s infection
Turmeric can boost the flow of blood to the brain and hence can be used to treat Alzheimer’s disease.

Arthritis Patients Respond Very Well to Turmeric Supplements
Arthritis is a common disorder portrayed by joint aggravation. Researches demonstrate that Turmeric can help in treating symptoms of arthritis and is sometimes more compelling than anti-inflammatory drugs.

http://www.orissapost.com/7-proven-health-benefits-of-turmeric/

Recently been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis

From jpost.com/HEALTH-SCIENCE
By NATALIE BEN EZRA

       

Dear Natalie,
I am 40 years old and have recently been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. I understand that diet can play a significant part in reducing or even eliminating many of the symptoms. Can you help guide me as to what foods I should be eating and those I should be avoiding?
With many thanks,
Leah
Kiryat Motzkin

Dear Leah,
You are absolutely right that the correct nutrition (and maintaining it) makes a huge positive impact when it comes to rheumatoid arthritis. As an autoimmune inflammatory disease, eating the right foods will help keep inflammation down and therefore keep RA in check. I usually begin my clients who have inflammatory, immune-related diseases on an “eliminating white” diet. This means no white sugars, flours or rice. Instead, replace them with whole grains, fibre and naturally sweet fruits. Also, wherever possible, cut out processed foods and try to pay attention to your symptoms after eating gluten. I tend to notice a pattern among my clients that gluten is one of the proteins that trigger inflammation and therefore may cause symptoms to worsen. Substitute lentils, beans, quinoa and potatoes for gluten.

The same goes for dairy. If you consume a lot, try replacing your milk products with almond or coconut milk, which are packed with goodness and are also anti-inflammatory. There is no need to cut out dairy and gluten completely, just be mindful of how they might affect your symptoms specifically. As I mentioned, in my clinical experience there tends to be a link, however, some are less sensitive than others.

     COW’S MILK can be replaced with almond or coconut milk. (photo credit: WIKIPEDIA)

I also want to highlight the importance of fibre. The Arthritis Foundation states that high-fibre foods can reduce the level of C-reactive protein (CRP) in your blood. CRP is one of the best indicators of the level of inflammation in our bodies. The good news is that strawberries can reduce CRP levels. Other good sources of fibre include chia seeds (a big spoonful a day), oatmeal, broccoli, eggplant, almonds, split peas and lima beans. Make sure you stock up on your anti-inflammatory foods too. An absolute must is Turmeric. I recommend taking turmeric supplements on a daily basis. For anti-inflammatory impact you should take 500 to 1,000 milligrams per day.
Don’t underestimate healthy fatty acids! Omega-3 is so important in your quest to overcome the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Think of the oil as a lubricant to your joints. Enough omega-3 can really improve your joint pain and protect you from further inflammation. Fish oil is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids (including EPA and DHA). Among the long list of benefits, fish oils are able to block inflammatory cytokines and prostaglandins. The body then converts them into powerful anti-inflammatory chemicals known as resolvins. Good options for fish high in omega-3 fatty acids include trout, anchovies, herring, salmon, tuna and mackerel.

If you don’t enjoy fish, try to include more raw nuts into your diet, especially almonds and walnuts, and start using flax seed oil, as it’s wonderfully rich in omega oils. As recommended earlier, chia seeds are not only a brilliant source of fibre but also a great source of omega-3. It is usually difficult to get enough of a therapeutic dose of fish oil from eating fish alone, so I usually always recommend taking fish oil capsules daily to treat arthritis-related conditions. Make sure you look for the kind with at least 30% EPA/DHA as the active ingredients.

One of the best quality Omega 3 supplements are made by Omega3Galil. They are leading experts in improving the potency of fish oils. Find them online at omega3galil.com, or call them at 04-999-9524.

My final recommendations to add to your diet are antioxidants. Antioxidants protect our cells from the effects of free radicals and thereby can significantly reduce inflammation in the body. Foods with a rich source of antioxidants include beetroot, green tea, garlic, ginger, olive oil, seaweed, onions and spinach.

https://www.jpost.com/HEALTH-SCIENCE/Alternatively-Speaking-Head-shoulders-knees-and-toes-595576

How to ease arthritis: Evidence suggests this popular fruit could keep flare-ups in check

From express.co.uk

Arthritis is a common condition in the UK, affecting more than 10 million people. While there is no cure, certain products have been proven to alleviate symptoms. Growing evidence suggests this popular fruit could help.

Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in a joint. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the two most common types of arthritis. Most people living with the condition experience varying degrees of joint pain and stiffness in the affected areas. Treatments can help to slow down the condition, providing much needed respite.

Popular wisdom has long cherries touted cherries as an effective treatment for arthritis. As reported by the Arthritis Foundation, scientific research is now bolstering these claims.

In a study of 633 participants, Boston University Medical Centre researchers found that eating at least ten cherries a day protected people with existing gout from recurrent attacks. Gout is a type of arthritis in which small crystals form inside and around the joints.
Commenting on the study, published in a supplement to the journal Arthritis & Rheumatism, co-author Hyon K. Choi, MD said: “Cherry intake was associated with a 50 percent lower risk of gout flares over a 48-hour period.”
He attributes the positive effects to anthocyanins – plant pigments that have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Anthocyanins are found in red and purple fruits, including raspberries and blueberries, but cherries, especially tart cherries, contain higher levels.

That idea was corroborated by British researchers in a 2014 study in the Journal of Functional Foods. In that study, drinking Montmorency tart juice reduced blood levels of gout-causing uric acid and increased specific anthocyanin compounds in the bloodstream. Another study in the same journal found that eating whole cherries led to a similar increase in anthocyanins.

   Arthritis: Growing evidence suggests cherries could soothe symptoms (Image: Getty Images )

Liquid cherry extract – found in health-food and specialty stores – appears to provide the same benefits.
In a retrospective study of 24 patients presented at the 2010 annual meeting of the European League Against Rheumatism, researchers at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in New Brunswick, N.J., saw a 50 percent reduction in flares when gout patients took one tablespoon of tart cherry extract – the equivalent of 45 to 60 cherries – twice a day for four months.
“This is definitely a topic worth further investigation,” Dr. Choi says. “If cherries prove effective in large trials, they could provide a safe, non-pharmacological option for preventing recurrent gout attacks.”

Other studies suggest that cherries may also help reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis (OA). In a 2013 article in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, researchers at the Philadelphia VA Medical Centre reported that patients who consumed two 8-ounce bottles of tart cherry juice daily for six weeks experienced a significant improvement in pain, stiffness and physical function.
Study participants also showed a marked decrease in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation Each bottle of juice equalled about 45 cherries.

According to one small study, even cherry pills may improve OA pain and stiffness.
In a 2007 pilot study at the Baylor Research Institute in Dallas, Texas, more than half of 20 enrolled patients reported improved pain and function after taking one cherry capsule a day for eight weeks.
Each capsule contained 100 milligrams (mg) of anthocyanins. (Three ounces of pitted dark cherries are estimated to contain from 80 to 300 mg of anthocyanins).
But in a follow-up study, when patients took two capsules daily, the cherry pills performed no better than placebo.

Until more is known, most researchers are reluctant to recommend a specific cherry regimen.
But many agree that for overall health, and as a possible tool in managing gout and OA pain, a handful of cherries, especially a tart variety such as Montmorency, or a glass of cherry juice every day may be beneficial.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1152336/rheumatoid-arthritis-pain-symptoms-treatment-what-is-cherries

Foods to fight arthritis

From standardmedia.co.ke

Arthritis is a health condition that affects a person’s joints causing swollen, painful and stiff joints. It is common in older adults but can also develop in children, teens and younger adults. It is more prevalent in women and overweight individuals. There are different types of arthritis but the most common ones are rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and gout.

Although there is no diet that can cure arthritis, certain foods can help fight inflammation and ease its symptoms. Other foods, commonly known as trigger foods or inflammatory foods, can make the symptoms worse. Trigger foods vary from one person to another but there are common known trigger foods that should be minimised by people with arthritis.


Sugar

Simple processed sugar can trigger release of compounds known as cytokins which cause inflammation in the joints. Sugar in itself isn’t essentially bad. When coming from the right source - nutritious food - sugar is a good source of energy. Avoid or minimize intake of processed foods and drinks like artificial juices, sodas and most baked goods since they are often loaded with simple sugars and have little to no nutrition value. Sugary foods are also a common cause of weight gain which adds pressure and stress to the joints causing more inflammation and pain.


Foods high in saturated fats

Saturated fats found mainly in animal based foods like meats and dairy products; and in processed and refined foods like potato crisps, pastries and processed meats can cause inflammation in the body which in turn triggers arthritis symptoms, , if taken in large quantities. To reduce intake of saturated fats, go for lean cuts of meat, skin your chicken before cooking and go for whole grains instead of processed ones. High intake of saturated fats triggers the liver to produce excess cholesterol which causes more inflammation and heightens your risk of heart diseases. Healthier fats that are high in omega 3 fatty acids like avocado, salmon and tuna are high in anti-inflammatory compounds and can help lower the bad fats in the body thus reducing inflammation.

Foods high in salt

Too much salt is bad for everyone. The amount of salt you eat has a direct effect on your blood pressure. Salt makes your body retain too much water which raises your blood pressure. High blood pressure puts a strain on your heart, arteries, kidney and brain. World Health Organization recommends that adults keep their salt intake at just under 5grams per day. People with arthritis should take even less because some medicine used in treating arthritis like corticosteroids make the body retain more sodium, resulting in more water retention, putting you at more risk of elevated blood pressure.


Alcohol

Excessive intake of alcohol is associated with many health conditions. It also causes inflammation in the body which triggers arthritis symptoms. Alcohol is a good source of purine, a compound broken down into uric acid by the body. If uric acid isn’t eliminated from the body it can build up and cause gout. Reducing alcohol intake can greatly reduce severity and frequency of gout attacks.


Red meats and organ meats

Compared to white meats, red meats are higher in purines compared to white meats. Organ meats are also a good source of purines. Taking red meats often and in excess can increase your uric acid levels and spur a gout attack.  Red meats are also rich in saturated fats which are a common cause of inflammation. Choose white meat like fish over red meat. Use lean cuts of meats and take more of plant based proteins.

https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/article/2001332903/foods-to-fight-arthritis

What to do when you have arthritis in your ankles

From miamiherald.com/living

Q. I am 60 years old and I have developed severe arthritis of both my ankles. I have very little ankle motion and severe pain with walking. I have tried orthotics in my shoes, cortisone injections and braces. Several foot and ankle specialists whom I have seen have given me different opinions. My options are to continue to live with the pain, have ankles fusions or have ankle replacements. What do you think is best?

A. When the cartilage on the end of your ankle wears out to raw bone, it is known as bone-on-bone arthritis. This can be the result of trauma, a genetic condition or arthritic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
You have tried the various non-surgical options and it appears that now surgery is indicated. Most people with ankle arthritis have very limited motion.
Therefore, an ankle fusion that prevents ankle motion is usually well tolerated since patients are used to limited motion. Fusions are usually successful in relieving pain but are difficult surgeries to perform and take a long time to heal. Patients usually require limited weight bearing and casting or bracing for a couple of months and up to six months total to heal. Since you will need surgery on both ankles, this will be a long recovery process.

https://www.miamiherald.com/living/health-fitness/jock-doc/article232277542.html

Read more here: https://www.miamiherald.com/living/health-fitness/jock-doc/article232277542.html#storylink=cpy

Read more here: https://www.miamiherald.com/living/health-fitness/jock-doc/article232277542.html#storylink=cpy

Arthritis: Feeling this sensation in your hands could mean you have the condition

From express.co.uk

ARTHRITIS relates to the progressive wearing down of cartilage between joints to the point that bone begins wearing against bone. Feeling these sensations in your hands could mean you are at risk of developing arthritis.

Arthritis is a condition which effects various tissues inside joints. Arthritis can occur as a result of acute or chronic inflammation in a joint and its surrounding soft tissues. Having a feeling of dullness or even a burning sensation in your hands is usually an early symptom of arthritis. This pain often occurs after periods of increased joint use, such as heavy gripping or grasping. The hand has multiple small joints that work together to produce motion, including the fine motion needed for tasks such as threading a needle. When joints are affected by arthritis, daily activities can be difficult.

The main symptom of arthritis includes a pain that is limited to the joint itself. At first the pain may come and go but is made worse when in use.
However, pain is relieved with rest and there may be days or weeks with pain. As the disease advances, the pain becomes more constant and changes from a dull ache to a sharp pain, which sometimes extends beyond the joint area.
Arthritis can occur in many areas of the hand and can have more than one cause.
Over time, if arthritis is not treated, the bones that make up the joint can lose their normal shape and this causes more pain and further limits motion.

The first signs of arthritis are joint pain, restricted movements of the joints, warm red skin over the affected joint and weakness and muscle wasting.

              Arthritis: Having these sensations in your hand could mean you have the disease                                                                            (Image: Getty Images)

The NHS said: “Arthritis or osteoarthritis often affects three main areas of the hand including the base of your thumb, the joints closers to your fingertips and the middle joints of your fingers.
"Your fingers may become stiff, painful and swollen and you may develop bumps on your finger joints. Over time, the pain may decrease and eventually disappear altogether.
"Your fingers may also bend sideways slightly at your affected joints or you may develop painful cysts.
"This can be painful and you may find it difficult to perform some manual tasks, such as writing, opening jars or turning keys.”
Increasingly, doctors are focusing on how to preserve the damaged joint and includes early diagnosis and repairing joint components before the entire surface becomes damaged.

A spokesperson for funding body Versus Arthritis said: “Arthritis and related conditions affect 17.8 million people in the UK and can cause excruciating pain and fatigue.
"Living with these conditions can steal people’s independence. We are proud to support, alongside the MRC, the centre for a further 5 years, so that we are able to continue to invest in important research to bring benefits to people with arthritis.
"This investment will help ensure that the UK does not miss out on the skills and passion that people living with arthritis can offer in the workplace.”

There are many results in cartilage repair and replacement in the larger joints and some of these techniques have been applied to the smaller joints of the hand and arm.
Stem cell research has also been proven to be an option to regenerate damaged joint surfaces.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1148189/arthritis-pain-symptoms-treatment-hands-nhs

10 proven health benefits of Green Tea

From kalingatv.com

Bhubaneswar: Green tea, currently, is the healthiest beverage in today’s stressful life. It is loaded with antioxidants and nutrients that have powerful effects on the body.
In this article, we will be discussing the ten proven health benefits of drinking green tea.

Cancer Prevention

According to the National Cancer Institute, the polyphenols in green tea have been shown to decrease tumour growth in laboratory and animal studies and may protect against damage caused by ultraviolet UVB radiation. Cancers such as breast, bladder, ovarian, lung, prostate, skin, stomach, etc have been known to kill cancerous cells.

Weight Loss

Green tea likely increases metabolism. The polyphenol found in the tea works to intensify levels of fat oxidation and the rate at which your body turns food into calories. Hence it helps the process of weight loss.

Regulate Diabetes

Green tea apparently helps regulate glucose levels. It then slows the rise of blood sugar after eating. This can prevent high insulin spikes and prevent fat storage.

Prevents Tooth Decay

Several studies suggest that the chemical antioxidant “catechin” in tea can destroy bacteria and viruses that cause throat infections, dental caries and other dental conditions.

Avert Heart Disease

Scientists think green tea works on the lining of blood vessels, helping keep them stay relaxed and better able to withstand changes in blood pressure. It may also protect against the formation of clots, which are the primary cause of heart attacks.

Delays Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s

Studies carried out on mice showed that green tea protected brain cells from dying and restored damaged brain cells. The tea hence delays the deterioration caused by Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Delays Ageing

Green tea can apparently also help with wrinkles and the signs of ageing. This is because of their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Both animal and human studies have demonstrated that the tea even applied topically can reduce sun damage.

Improve Brain Function

Green tea has amino acid L-theanine, which is able to cross the blood-brain barrier. The amino acid L-theanine increases the activity of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, which has anti-anxiety effects. It also increases dopamine and the production of alpha waves in the brain.

Lowers Infection Risk

Some studies show that the catechins in the tea can kill bacteria and inhibit viruses like the influenza virus, potentially lowering your risk of infections. Multiple studies also show that green tea can reduce bad breath.

Helps Relieve Arthritis

According to the Arthritis Foundation, EGCG in green tea is over 100 times more effective than vitamins C and E when it comes to offering antioxidant benefits during arthritis. It also helps to reduce inflammatory conditions in rheumatoid arthritis without interfering with other cellular functions.

These are some of the many benefits but the reality is one cup of tea a day will not give you all the abundant gains. As little as two and at max four are known to do wonders.

https://kalingatv.com/features/10-proven-health-benefits-of-green-tea/