The Institute of Food Technologists asserted new natural treatments may help improve the quality of life for more than 21 million osteoarthritis sufferers, according to new research presented at their annual meeting.
Medical experts estimate the typical age at onset of the condition is 40 and over.
Statisitcs estimate more than 55 million Americans suffer from osteoarthritis, and related conditions. Osteoarthritis consists of the inflammation of one or more joints, and characterized by pain, stiffness, swelling, and some diminshed range of motion, according to Prescription For Nutritional Healing by Phyllis A. Balch, CNC and James F. Balch, M.D.
Results of IFT studies show that a novel, natural chicken derivative is more effective and longer-lasting than traditional chondroitin and glucosamine treatments.
The Institute of Food Technologists explained conventional medicines used to treat osteoarthritis include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, which can cause gastric injury.
They further pointed out in a press release alternatives such as rofecoxib and valdecoxib increase the rise of cardiovascular dysfunctions, including stroke.
The Institute of Food Technologists claim the new natural arthritis treatments do not have these side effects, making them more appealing to those with arthritis symptoms.
Studies show that UC-II, a novel undenatured type II collagen derived from chicken sternum cartilage, decreased arthritis pain scores by 33 percent, compared to 14 percent in groups treated with glucosamine and chondroitin. "In addition, the UC-II continued to work even after the glucosamine-chondroitin results plateaued, making it more effective over time," said Manashi Bagchi, Ph.D., of Interhealth Nutraceuticals, Inc., in a press release.
Another medical expert, Dr. James F. Balch is in alignment with natural arthritis treatments.
According to Dr. James F. Balch, osteoarthritis is not a modern ailment. Dr. Balch asserts it has been ailing man since the dawn of time. Dr. Balch noted in his book Prescription For Nutritional Healing:”Archeologists have discovered evidence of the disorder in the skeletons of Neanderthals and other prehistoric mammals,and even dinosaurs. Still, as long as this
Dr. Balch affirms in his book that the condition is reversible, and, in some cases curable with the proper diet and some lifestyle changes.
His recommendations include eating more sulfur rich foods such as asparagus, eggs, garlic and onions. The rationale according to Dr. Balch is that sulfur is needed for the repair and rebuilding of the bone, cartilage, connective tissue, and it also aids in the absorption of calcium.
Rather than relying on ibuprofen alone, Dr. Balch asserts raw lemon rubs and hot castor oil packs are also effective in pain relief. For a castor oil remedy, warming castor oil in a pan is needed, thereby a piece of cheesecloth, or other white cotton fabric can be dipped in the oil until it is saturated. A piece of plastic wrap should cover the saturated cheesecloth, and it should be kept warm by placing a heating pad over it, and then applied to the affected area as needed.
If taking ibuprofen cannot be prevented, sodium should be avoided as it causes water retension.
For more information on IFT, visit www.ift.org.