Effective Supplements for Rheumatoid Arthritis: What the Science Says

The autoimmune disease rheumatoid arthritis causes pain and swelling of the joints. Numerous prescription medications exist for the treatment of RA that offer relief from these symptoms. Additionally, supplements for RA treatment may benefit patients.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

• Omega-3 fatty acids are widely used by many arthritis patients as an anti-inflammatory supplement.

  Available as supplements, omega-3's can be found in many foods including flax seeds, cod liver oil, nuts, raspberries, broccoli, spinach, winter squash, salmon, tuna and cantaloupe.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin

• Often coupled, glucosamine and chondroitin used over time increase range of motion for rheumatoid arthritis sufferers and reduce pain and swelling. Already found in the body naturally, both supplements work to repair joint damage.

MSM

• MSM, also known as Methylsulfonylmethane, is a sulfur composite in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. It also exists naturally in our bodies. The supplement helps reduce swelling and pain in the joints for many rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Misconceptions

• Many people believe that if a supplement is "natural" it is perfectly safe to use. However, this may not be the case. Never add supplements to your daily regime without first discussing them with your doctor.

Warning

• Some supplements cause negative interactions with prescription medications. For example, chondroitin may interfere with Coumadin, a commonly used blood thinning medication. Glucosamine should not be used by those with seafood allergies.