The Structural System
Lesson 14, Page 13 of 16

Glucosamine has been shown to have the ability to stop and even reverse the degeneration of osteoarthritis.

Nutritional Support for Arthritis

I consider it essential for just about anyone beginning a natural program for any type of arthritis to begin with a cleanse of the channels of elimination, including the bowel, liver and kidneys. (The only exceptions are pregnant and lactating women and individuals who are thin, pale and weak. Weak individuals should begin with a building program and cleanse only after they have regained some of their strength.) Cleansing helps rid the body of toxins that have built up due to chemical pollution and unhealthy eating habits. The typical North American consumes four to five pounds of chemical additives each year, hidden in their food. Add to this the fact that we get less than half the fiber we need—fiber which is necessary to sweep the intestinal tract clean—and you will begin to understand the necessity of this essential first step.

CleanStart TM is a two week cleansing program that cleanses the five main detoxifying organs—the colon, liver, kidneys, skin and lungs. I recommend a two week cleanse with CleanStart twice a year for just about everyone, in the Spring and again in the Fall. Two weeks at a time is enough for most individuals although some may need to begin with a four week cleanse using two CleanStarts back to back.

All of the nutritional supplements previously mentioned for the joints can be helpful for arthritis. The plant enzymes found in Proactazyme Plus, in particular, should be a part of every nutritional program for individuals suffering from arthritis. In addition to plant enzymes, and cleansing, some of the supplements that might be most beneficial for the different types of arthritis are listed below:

Osteoarthritis

As I mentioned on the previous page, Glucosamine has been shown to be helpful for both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, but it is probably osteoarthritis for which it has the greatest benefit. I recommend that glucosamine, along with Chondroitin, MSM and Devil's Claw Herb, be taken in the nutritional combination EverFlex tablets; along with the external application of EverFlex Pain Cream to the painful joints.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Research has shown that Flax Seed Oil reduces the inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis and helps lubricate the joints. I also recommend Uña De Gato or Cat's Claw Herb. It has been discovered that many cases of RA involve a low grade infection in the joints, something which can easily be missed by doctors. Uña de gato has the added benefit of being a powerful stimulant for the white blood cells of the immune system, increasing their ability to engulf and destroy the pathogenic organisms involved in infections.

Gout

In addition to the advice given previously on cleansing and plant enzymes, the herbs burdock, dandelion and safflowers help the body eliminate the excess uric acid associated with gout. The foods which increase flare-ups should be reduced, including meat, salt and especially alcohol. Aspirin should be avoided as it interfers with the body's ability to eliminate uric acid. Eight to ten fresh red cherries, eaten daily, can also be very beneficial for gout. It is important for the gout sufferer to alkalize his or her system. (See lesson on the subject of Acid-Alkaline Balance.)

According to this author, the first step in any natural health program for nearly all individuals with arthritis is ___________.

Building
Activating
Direct Nutritional Aid
Cleansing

(Select the best answer and click on the "Continue" button.)

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