Arthritis can take away some of your favorite activities and make daily living very uncomfortable or even painful. When it comes to managing this condition, there are certain triggers that you should be aware of.
Find out what parts of your diet might be contributing to your osteoarthritis symptoms. You can take control of your pain and minimize it once you have this important knowledge.
The Science Behind Arthritis
There are two main types of arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is considered an autoimmune disease and is different from osteoarthritis. On the other hand, osteoarthritis is caused by the breakdown of joint cartilage.
Your bones are surrounded by a fleshy material called cartilage, which provides them with cushion and flexibility. This is what allows you to move around, bend down, and absorb impact when you’re walking or running.
Many people call osteoarthritis a “wear and tear” disease because it often results from overuse and strain on your joints. Aging is a leading cause of osteoarthritis — your body can only maintain healthy joints for so long.
After many long years of movement, your joint cartilage can start to disintegrate. Some people develop bone spurs that harden and cause lots of discomfort.
Once your bones lose the support and cushion of cartilage, you may experience joint stiffness and pain. Your mobility may suffer, making it hard to complete normal daily activities. Osteoarthritis can be debilitating if left untreated.
Food, Inflammation, and Osteoarthritis: What’s the Link?
You might be wondering how your diet can affect your joint pain. The things you eat (or don’t eat) can have a strong impact on your overall comfort levels, especially if you struggle with arthritis symptoms regularly.
Certain foods contain inflammatory compounds that promote swelling and discomfort in your body. If you already suffer from osteoarthritis, this extra inflammation will cause more pain and discomfort, which can worsen existing mobility issues.
On the other hand, some foods contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help fight inflammation and discomfort. These are the foods you want to regularly incorporate into your diet.
Learn which foods to avoid if you suffer from osteoarthritis so you can remain comfortable and active around the clock.
Avoid High-Sugar Foods and Drinks
Foods and beverages with high sugar content are known for their pro-inflammatory effects. Refined sugars cause your body to release compounds called cytokines, which have inflammatory effects on your cells and tissues. This can worsen your joint pain from osteoarthritis.
Additionally, inflammation may contribute to further breakdown of the cartilage between your joints. If you want to protect your health while living with this condition, avoid packaged and processed snacks and drinks that have high sugar content.
Some examples of high-sugar foods and drinks include:
Cookies
Candies
Cakes
Sodas
Sweetened coffee drinks
Frozen desserts
Energy drinks
Avoid these foods to increase your comfort and decrease your osteoarthritis symptoms.
Simple Carbs: White Bread, Rice, and Other Refined Foods
Along with added sugar, simple carbohydrates are found in many “white” foods. This means that foods like white bread, white rice, and potato chips are loaded with simple carbs that could contribute to worsening symptoms.
Simple carbohydrates affect your body differently than complex carbs, which are good for your health. Similar to refined sugars, simple carbs have pro-inflammatory effects and can lead to rapid weight gain. The more you weigh, the more pressure your joints have to deal with every day.
Avoid simple carbs and opt for whole-grain foods like brown rice instead.
Saturated Fat Causes Weight Gain and Joint Strain
Foods that are high in saturated fats are bad for your health. Many researchers and medical bodies believe that eating a diet high in saturated fats exponentially increases your risk for heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.
When you eat too much saturated fats, you’re likely consuming more calories than you burn. This can cause you to pack on extra pounds that are detrimental to your health. Excess weight puts strain on your joints and cartilage, which makes osteoarthritis symptoms far worse.
Opt for healthier fats instead from sources like:
Olive oil
Fish
Yogurt
Hummus
Avocado
Nuts and seeds
These sources of fat will benefit your health and help you avoid debilitating osteoarthritis symptoms. Look into an anti-inflammatory diet to potentially help.
Don’t Overdo the Fast Food and Fried Treats
Eating fried foods is never good for your heart health, joints, and waistline. While these foods can be enjoyed in moderation, it’s important to prioritize home-cooked meals over fried and fast foods.
Fast food is often high in simple carbs, saturated fat, and sodium. These compounds contribute to inflammation and weight gain, which, in turn, causes more joint pain and discomfort. Many people with osteoarthritis experience more joint pain and stiffness the day after eating fried and fast foods.
Instead of eating foods fried in oil, try baking foods like vegetables and fish with a light coating of olive oil spray. This will reduce the amount of calories in your meal and help you avoid fried treats — a win-win situation for your joint health.
Limit Your Dairy Intake
Dairy has been a part of the standard American diet for many years. However, eating too much dairy in one sitting can spell bad news for your health. Osteoarthritis can flare up if you eat excessive amounts of dairy from low-quality sources.
When dairy is mass-produced, it goes through a process called pasteurization. This process removes many harmful bacteria that can get into raw cow’s milk, but it doesn’t eliminate the inflammatory compounds.
Human digestive tracts were not originally designed to break down lactose, a key compound in cow’s milk. Other compounds in cow’s milk can worsen your health as well. This means that when you have a condition like osteoarthritis, it’s best to limit your dairy intake.
Managing Your Life with Osteoarthritis
Making dietary changes can significantly improve your quality of life if you’re living with osteoarthritis. While you can’t always avoid developing this condition, you can live a satisfying life and manage your symptoms.
If you want to protect your health and reduce the amount of strain on your joints, consider avoiding these common osteoarthritis triggers.
Liver disease accounts for nearly two million deaths annually and is responsible for 4% of all deaths (1 out of every 25 deaths worldwide); approximately two-thirds of all liver-related deaths occur in men.
Most forms of chronic liver disease result from viral infections, alcohol abuse, or metabolic disorders and eventually result in cirrhosis and liver failure. The only effective treatment for end-stage cirrhosis is liver transplantation. Unfortunately, considering organ shortages and the high cost associated with this type of medical procedure, liver transplants are not available in many countries.
Stem cell transplantation, specifically transplantation using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), has been increasingly used as a potential treatment strategy for a host of diseases, including for treating chronic liver disease.
As part of this review, Kang et al. discuss the therapeutic effects of MSCs in liver diseases to address questions regarding their efficacy and safety, evaluate recent advances in this area, and consider the potential risks and challenges in the use of MSC-based therapies for liver disease.
When considering the therapeutic effects of MSC therapy in chronic liver disease, the authors conclude that this treatment has shown to be effective, primarily due to their immunomodulation, differentiation, and antifibrotic properties exhibited by MSCs. The authors also point out that although the safety and therapeutic effects of MSC therapy have been observed in several clinical studies, to date the therapy has demonstrated only modest improvements in treating liver disease. Kang et al. attribute this modest improvement, in part, to the current limited feasibility of transplanted cells.
The authors provide a detailed review of the strategies that have been utilized to improve the effects of MSC transplantation, including tissue engineering, preconditioning, genetic engineering, and using extracellular vesicles as cell-free therapy, and summarize the future potential of each of these as ways to improve MSC transplantation.
Kang et al. also highlight several problems that must be considered and addressed before MSCs are fully accepted as clinical therapeutic treatment options for chronic liver disease; these problems include the potential for carcinogenesis and viral transmission. For example, previous animal studies have demonstrated a relationship between the development of sarcoma and the number of passages. While this has not been directly observed in clinical trials involving human MSCs, the follow-up period was too short to allow for observed evidence of this development. As a result, the authors call for a detailed study into the chromosomal integrity before MSC transplantation to ensure the safety of the procedure.
In addition to the potential for tumor cell growth, allotransplantation of MSC cells may involve the risk of viral transmission to the patients. As a result, the authors indicate that both MSC recipients and donors may need to be screened for the presence of specific viruses, including parvovirus B19, herpes simplex virus, and cytomegalovirus.
The authors conclude that the prospects of MSC-based cell therapy for treating chronic liver disease will be determined by standardizing the cell source, culture conditions, administration route, and the outcomes of future large-scale clinical trials.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common and widespread form of arthritis, affecting an estimated 655 million people worldwide. Occurring as a result of cartilage degeneration, OA is a progressive degenerative disorder that most commonly affects the joints of the hands, hips, knees, and spine.
Although OA can affect anyone, it is most commonly observed in older patients. In fact, all individuals over the age of 65 are believed to demonstrate some clinical or radiographic evidence of OA.
While surgical and pharmaceutical treatment options for OA exist as a way to manage the symptoms and progression of the disease, treatment for the restoration of normal cartilage function has yet to be achieved.
Considering the tissue of joint cartilage is composed primarily of chondrocytes found in bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), using these specific stem cells appears to have significant potential for use in the therapeutic regeneration of cartilage.
In this review, Gupta et al. evaluate the advances in using BMSCs and their therapeutic potential for repairing cartilage damage in OA. Evaluating current research, the authors point out that one of the key characteristics of MSCs, including BMSCs, is that they are generally hypoimmunogenic and possess immunosuppressive activity, suggesting that BMSCs could be used as allogeneic applications for cartilage repair.
Preclinical models of OA have also demonstrated that the effects of MSC transplantation have been effective for cartilage repair. Additionally, clinical models have reported on the safety and positive therapeutic effects of MNSC administration in patients with OA.
The authors point out that while the exact mechanism by which BMSCs regenerate articular cartilage in patients with OA is not clear, their ability to induce proliferation and tissue-specific differentiation appears to aid in the repair of damaged cartilage.
The ability of BMSCs to migrate and engraft onto multiple musculoskeletal tissues and differentiate at the site of injury while demonstrating anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties demonstrate their potential as a therapeutic treatment for degenerative diseases like OA.
While the information provided in this review demonstrates the potential of BMSCs to support treatment and recovery from the damage caused because of OA, Gupta et al. call for additional clinical studies to assess the curative properties and long-term outcome of using MCSCs for the treatment of OA before they can be used routinely as a clinical treatment for the condition.
Brain injuries resulting from car accidents can vary in severity, ranging from mild concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). The symptoms experienced can also vary depending on the specific nature and extent of the injury. Here are some common symptoms associated with brain injury from a car accident:
Loss of consciousness: The person may experience a temporary loss of consciousness, ranging from a few seconds to several minutes. However, it’s important to note that loss of consciousness doesn’t always occur in every brain injury case.
Headache: Persistent or recurring headaches are a common symptom following a brain injury. The severity and frequency of the headaches can vary.
Confusion and disorientation: After a car accident, individuals may feel confused, disoriented, or have difficulty remembering events before or after the accident. They may have problems with concentration and may struggle to follow conversations or instructions.
Memory problems: Short-term or long-term memory loss can occur after a brain injury. This may involve difficulty remembering recent events, learning new information, or recalling past memories.
Dizziness and balance issues: Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or having problems with balance and coordination are common symptoms. This may make it difficult to walk or perform everyday activities.
Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms can be a result of the injury itself or associated with dizziness and imbalance.
Sensory changes: Changes in sensory perception can occur, such as blurred vision, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), sensitivity to light or sound, or a bitter taste in the mouth.
Mood swings and emotional changes: Brain injuries can lead to emotional and behavioral changes, including irritability, depression, anxiety, mood swings, and a decreased tolerance for stress. These changes can affect personal relationships and overall well-being.
Sleep disturbances: Insomnia, excessive sleepiness, or changes in sleep patterns are common after a brain injury.
Sensation and coordination problems: Some individuals may experience numbness or tingling in the extremities, difficulties with coordination, or weakness in the muscles.
It’s important to remember that these symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the brain injury and the individual. If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident and is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.
What Treatments Help for Brain Injury Recovery?
The treatment and management of a brain injury depends on its severity and the specific symptoms and complications experienced. Recovery from a brain injury can be a complex and individualized process.
In the acute phase following a brain injury, medical professionals focus on stabilizing the individual and preventing further damage. This may involve surgery to address bleeding or swelling in the brain.
Rehabilitation therapies are utilized to address specific impairments and promote recovery. These may include:
Physical therapy: To improve mobility, strength, balance, and coordination.
Occupational therapy: To regain skills necessary for daily activities and improve cognitive function.
Speech and language therapy: To address communication difficulties, speech impairments, and swallowing problems.
Cognitive rehabilitation: To enhance cognitive abilities such as memory, attention, problem-solving, and organization skills.
Vision therapy: To address visual disturbances or impairments.
Medications may be prescribed to manage specific symptoms associated with brain injuries, such as pain, seizures, muscle spasms, depression, anxiety, or sleep disorders.
Emotional and psychological support is essential for individuals recovering from brain injuries. Counseling or therapy sessions can help individuals and their families cope with the emotional and behavioral changes that may occur.
Depending on the specific impairments, assistive devices such as mobility aids, communication devices, or memory aids may be recommended. Modifications to the home or workplace environment may also be necessary to support the individual’s recovery and independence.
Support from family, friends, and support groups can play a crucial role in the recovery process. Educational programs can help individuals and their families understand the nature of brain injuries, manage expectations, and learn strategies for coping and maximizing recovery.
Adopting a healthy lifestyle can support brain injury recovery. This may include getting sufficient rest, eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise (as appropriate), and avoiding substances that could interfere with recovery, such as alcohol or certain medications.
It’s important to note that every brain injury is unique, and treatment plans should be tailored to the individual’s specific needs. A multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including physicians, neurologists, therapists, and psychologists, will work together to create a comprehensive treatment plan and monitor progress throughout the recovery journey.
Can Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy Help in Brain Injury From Car Accident?
Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy is an area of ongoing research within the regenerative medicine field and holds promise for various medical conditions, including brain injuries. MSCs are a type of adult stem cell that can be derived from different sources, such as bone marrow, adipose tissue (fat), or umbilical cord tissue.
Preclinical studies and early clinical trials suggest that MSC therapy may have potential benefits in brain injury repair. Here are some ways in which MSC therapy might help:
Anti-inflammatory effects: MSCs have immunomodulatory properties, meaning they can regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation. In brain injuries, inflammation plays a significant role in secondary damage. MSCs have been shown to decrease inflammation in animal models of brain injury, potentially promoting a more favorable environment for healing.
Neuroprotective effects: MSCs may secrete various factors that have protective effects on brain cells. These factors can enhance cell survival, promote tissue repair, and stimulate the growth and differentiation of new neurons. Additionally, MSCs may have antioxidant properties, helping to reduce oxidative stress, which can be harmful to brain cells.
Modulation of scar formation: Following a brain injury, scar tissue formation can impede the regeneration and repair process. MSCs may modulate scar formation by reducing the deposition of scar tissue components and promoting tissue remodeling.
Promotion of angiogenesis: MSCs have the potential to stimulate the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis). This can enhance blood flow to the injured brain tissue, delivering oxygen and nutrients, which are essential for the healing process.Early results of MSC therapy for brain injuries are promising and the field of regenerative medicine is ongoing with its research. It’s always advisable to consult with healthcare professionals and experts in the field to discuss potential treatment options for brain injuries. If you are interested in learning more about the symptoms of Brain Injury From a Car Accident, contact a care coordinator today from Stemedix!
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and is estimated to affect over 500 million people worldwide. A result of the progressive deterioration of the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones, OA most commonly affects the hands, knees, hips, and spine and is characterized by pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility in and around the affected areas.
Without a known way to treat and/or prevent OA from occurring, current conventional treatment of the condition typically involves a combination of prescription and OTC drugs, physical therapy, and lifestyle adjustments in an effort to treat and slow the progression of the symptoms associated with OA.
As the beneficial applications of stem cells continue to emerge, and considering their ability to replace and repair cells and tissues throughout the body, researchers believe that they can be used to treat joint disorders, including OA. The majority of the current stem cell therapies being investigated for use in treating OA use mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), primarily due to their multilineage differentiation towards cell types in the joints and for their immunoregulatory functions.
In this review, Kong et al. provide detailed information on OA and MSCs, share updated information on pre-clinical and clinical trials and related applications of MSCs, and discuss additional efforts on cell-based therapy for treating OA and other joint and bone diseases.
Several preclinical models have investigated MSCs in treating OA and have demonstrated success in generating cartilage from MSCs. In addition, several animal models have demonstrated the beneficial effect of MSCs on cartilage, including protecting existing cartilage, repairing defects of joint cartilage, regenerating and enhancing cartilage, and even preventing OA.
Additionally, there have been several animal models evaluating the effects of intra-articular injection of MSCs for treating OA with researchers noting marked regeneration of tissue and decreased degeneration of articular cartilage.
Clinical trials using MSCs to treat human joint cartilage defects have found that MSCs could be used to repair cartilage defects, improve joint function, reduce pain, and have demonstrated the potential to use MSC therapy for cartilage repair and regeneration as a way to reduce signs and symptom commonly associated with OA.
Although these studies have demonstrated the tremendous potential associated with the use of MSCs for treating OA, they have also highlighted some potential concerns associated with MSC-based therapy. These concerns include determining the specific number and type of MSCs best suited for treating OA, a better understanding of the timing and delivery strategies for the administration of MSCs, and identifying the stages of disease best suited for MSC therapy.
Further concerns highlighted by the authors include the potential of genetic influences when using autologous MSC cells for treatment, the potential for the overall quality of MSC cells used in older patients to be too low, and the overall safety of stem cell therapy as a therapeutic treatment option for OA.
Despite the concerns identified above, Kong et al. conclude that the advancement of regenerative medicine and innovative stem cell technology offers a unique and exciting opportunity to treat OA.
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