Do you have an ‘itis’? (Part 2)
Today I spoke with a couple who both had osteoarthritis in their hands, back and also had issues
with muscle pain and ligament damage. I created a comprehensive nutritional programme and they
have both experienced significant improvement to these long term problems.
If your problem has the suffix ‘itis’ then it is an inflammatory disease. The central component to any
nutritional programme will be an anti-inflammatory diet and supplements to help shift the balance
from pro-inflammatory to anti-inflammatory. The results are often startling and can show within a
few months.
Resveratrol is noted for its anti- aging qualities but I use it as much for its anti-inflammatory
function. Research (Thorax, 2003) shows resveratrol reduces inflammation in respiratory problems
(COPD). In the following diagram you can see the multiple anti-inflammatory effect of Resveratrol.
This is why I include it in both my Acai Plus and MTQ10.
Functions of Resveratrol
Grape seed extract (OPC) is one of the most potent anti-inflammatory antioxidants and I add as
much as 500mg in cases of severe inflammation. The best OPC extracts such as ActiVin™ are
naturally extracted for maximum potency. Acai Berries are loaded with anti-inflammatory
compounds including a complex of phenolic antioxidants that prevent our immune system from
generating unnecessary inflammatory cytokines.
Curcumin, the active anti-inflammatory compound in turmeric has long been recognised for its
powerful anti-inflammatory effects. I use 95% curcumin extract in several of my formulas with great
success.
The real question is of course how to get these anti-inflammatory nutrients in sufficient quantities
and with the right combinations. While we can target some of these compounds in our diets the real
benefit comes when we add them in specialist supplements.
In most cases I start with an intensive programme with much higher doses before moving to a
maintenance programme as we get noticeable improvements.
John Arts (B.Soc.Sci, Dip Tch, Adv.Dip.Nut.Med.) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of
Abundant Health. If you have questions or need help you can contact John 0800 423559. You can
email John at [email protected].
Please note that the health advice given through this column is for general educational purposes only
and is not intended to diagnose or treat any health problem. © John Arts 2016