Stiff and aching joints are common complaints. Sometimes caused by conditions such as osteo- or rheumatoid arthritis, stiff and painful joints are also experienced by persons in otherwise good health, due to factors such as overexertion, but these complaints may also be linked to poor nutrition or improperly balanced diet.
Many studies and surveys have shown that the typical American diet is too high in omega-6 fatty acids and too low in omega-3 fatty acids. The best source of omega 3s is fish, while omega 6s are found in most other meats and foods. The long popular "meat and potatoes" diet adhered to by many Americans has practically no omega 3s, at all.
Studies have shown that improper diet plays a role in heart disease. More and more researchers believe it is also related to many forms of cancer. And, now more and more studies are showing that the lack of omega 3s in the diet plays a major role in the development osteoarthritis. Likewise, the addition of omega 3s to the diet improves and relieves symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
One excellent source of omega 3 fatty acids that is receiving attention throughout the world is the New Zealand green lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus). If the research is correct, many of us may never need to suffer from the stiff and aching joints in the morning that was commonly considered "just a normal part of aging". Apparently, it is not normal, or at least not inevitable.
Studies have shown that in communities around the world where fish is eaten more often than other meat products, the rate of heart disease is lower. Most people are aware of the importance of omega 3s to heart health, but people following this type of diet may also suffer less from stiff and painful joints.
Prescription medications designed to relieve the pain and inflammation associated with stiff and aching joints have numerous, sometimes life-threatening side effects. Over the counter remedies can eventually damage the lining of the stomach, cause ulcers, worsen acid reflux and even damage the liver. Many researchers feel that it is important to find a remedy for stiff and painful joints that is not accompanied by dangerous side effects.
Inflammation is the cause of the stiff and aching joints and the pain that accompanies them. Chronic inflammation is also believed to be the root cause of heart disease and cancer. Obesity has long been associated with heart disease and recently scientists have learned that obesity is accompanied by chronic inflammation.
Being overweight or obese can also worsen and increase complaints, such as stiff and painful joints, as well as increasing the deterioration of the cartilage that "cushions" the joints and prevents the grinding that, once again leads to inflammation.
At one time, it was believed that fat cells expanded as a person gained weight and then shrank, as a person lost weight. It has now been shown that fat cells actually "burst" due to weight gain and the "remains" of the burst cells stimulates inflammatory processes in the immune system. In other words, inflammatory molecules are sent to "clean up the mess" left by the fatty substance.
Both omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids are used by the immune system to create substances that the body needs to repair damage to cells. However, the substances derived from omega 6 fatty acids mostly lead to inflammation, while those from omega 3s are mostly anti-inflammatory.
The latest research has shown that extract form the New Zealand green lipped muscle relieves stiff and painful joints, improves mobility and strength in the hands. In general, omega 3 fatty acids improve the body's own ability to reduce inflammation.
Increasing omega 3s in the diet can help prevent heart disease and possibly cancer. Recent studies supplementation is beneficial for persons trying to lose weight. And, finally omega 3s and green lipped muscles may relieve the pain from stiff and aching joints, while supplementation early in life may prevent the development of chronic conditions like osteoarthritis.
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