The term arthritis is derived from the
Greek word "athron", or joint, while "itis" means
inflammation.
Arthritis is one of the most common types
of joint-disabling diseases. In fact,
there are over 200 types of arthritis, but the two most prevalent forms are
osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint
disease confined to local attacks on individuals. It is basically a product of normal wear and tear in the joints
over years of usage. This includes the knee and hip joints of an overweight
person; joints injured in an accident or sports; joints subjected to stresses
at work or play; or joints with hidden birth defects.
In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis is a
painful, even-disabling disease of the immune system that triggers
discomfort and swelling in non-specific
joints, nerves, muscles, blood vessels, tendons and connective tissues. It can strike at any age, occurring mainly in
the 25-40 year age group.
Arthritis can be significantly reduced by
following these simple guidelines:
- Watch
your weight - Choose a well-balanced diet based on
complex carbohydrates, such as pasta, bread, rice and potatoes, together with
high-fibre foods. - Avoid animal fats. Stock up plenty of fresh fruits and
vegetables instead. - Exercise daily. It is an excellent way to delay the onset of arthritis.
- Consuming cod liver oil also works wonders.
