Natural Solutions for Rheumatoid Arthritis
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation, pain, and swelling in the joints. Unlike osteoarthritis, which happens due to wear and tear, RA is an autoimmune condition and it occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, primarily affecting the lining of the joints. This can lead to joint damage, deformities, and even problems in other parts of the body, like the heart, lungs, and skin.
The Functional Medicine Approach to RA
Functional medicine looks at RA differently from conventional medicine. Instead of just treating symptoms with medications like steroids or biologics, functional medicine seeks to find and address the root causes of inflammation. It views RA as a complex condition influenced by genetics, gut health, diet, environmental toxins, and stress.
Root Causes of RA in Functional Medicine
1. Gut Health and the Microbiome
Many studies suggest that the gut plays a huge role in autoimmune diseases, including RA. A condition called “leaky gut” (intestinal permeability) allows harmful substances to enter the bloodstream, triggering immune system overactivity. An imbalance in gut bacteria (dysbiosis) can also lead to inflammation. Restoring gut health through probiotics, fermented foods, and eliminating food sensitivities can help.
2. Food Sensitivities and Diet
Certain foods can increase inflammation in RA patients. The most common culprits include gluten, dairy, processed sugars, and nightshade vegetables (like tomatoes and peppers). Many people with RA see improvements when following an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, leafy greens, and healthy fats like avocado and olive oil.
3. Nutrient Deficiencies
RA patients often have low levels of key nutrients such as vitamin D, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. Functional medicine practitioners test for deficiencies and recommend targeted supplementation.
4. Toxin Exposure and Detoxification
Heavy metals, pesticides, and environmental toxins can contribute to immune dysfunction. Supporting the body’s natural detox pathways through liver-supporting foods (like cruciferous vegetables), sweating, and hydration can help reduce toxic burden.
5. Stress and Emotional Well-being
Chronic stress increases inflammation and weakens the immune system. Mind-body practices such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help regulate the body’s stress response and support overall healing.
Functional Medicine Treatment Strategies for RA
1. Personalized Nutrition
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Adopt an anti-inflammatory diet rich in whole foods.
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Consider an elimination diet to identify triggers.
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Increase omega-3 intake from fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
2. Gut Healing Protocol
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Restore gut health with probiotics and prebiotics.
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Reduce gut inflammation with L-glutamine, and aloe vera.
3. Stress Management and Sleep Optimization
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Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
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Ensure 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
4. Targeted Supplementation
5. Physical Activity and Movement
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Engage in gentle exercises like walking, swimming, and stretching to maintain joint function without overstraining them.
Take Control of Your Health with Functional Medicine
If you’re struggling with rheumatoid arthritis and want to address its root causes instead of just managing symptoms, functional medicine can provide a personalized and holistic approach. At Intentional Wellness, Shannon offers expert guidance in identifying food triggers, optimizing gut health, and supporting your body’s natural healing processes. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward long-term relief and better health!
References
Cope, Andrew P. “T cell dysfunction in rheumatoid arthritis.” Nature Reviews Immunology, vol. 8, no. 12, 2008, pp. 832-842. https://www.nature.com/articles/nri2435.
Manzel, Arndt, et al. “Role of ‘Western diet’ in inflammatory autoimmune diseases.” Current Allergy and Asthma Reports, vol. 14, no. 1, 2014, p. 404. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24338487/.
Maeda, Yuichiro, and Diane Mathis. “The microbiome and autoimmune disease: the gut microbiota as a cause or consequence of autoimmunity.” Frontiers in Immunology, vol. 9, 2018, p. 1681. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2018.01681/full.
Petersen, Camilla, and Sarkis K. Mazmanian. “Saturated fats, gut microbiota, and metabolic disorders.” Nature Reviews Endocrinology, vol. 15, no. 1, 2019, pp. 47-62. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41574-018-0128-7.
Matei, Daniela E., et al. “The gut microbiota in chronic inflammatory diseases: A focus on multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis.” Nutrients, vol. 13, no. 2, 2021, p. 422. https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/2/422.
