Q: I read in your column about a year ago to try adding one tablespoon of liquid fruit pectin to an 8 ounce glass of grape juice to help with the pains of arthritis. It also mentioned that some people have tried apple juice. Since I dislike the taste of grape juice, I have been adding it to apple juice and so far it seems to be helping considerably. My question is, can I also add the pectin to other flavors of juice or other liquids like milk, coffee, tea or soda or is that not recommended? I’m afraid that if I keep using the apple juice, I will get tired of the flavor.
A: When remedies are received from readers that may be anecdotal, don’t appear to cause any harm but do have the potential for helping many people with a variety of disorders, we print them — either in an upcoming column or in a health report. Such was the case with a reader a number of years ago who used 100% purple grape juice and pectin to help reduce the pain of arthritis. The reader indicated it couldn’t be a grape drink with additives, but had to be 100% juice. Apparently nothing else worked for the reader.
If you have found apple juice works well for you, I can only recommend you go with it. And, when it comes to including the pectin to coffee, milk or other liquids, I can only suggest you give it a try. I cannot explain why one juice would work and another won’t but you have nothing to lose. I don’t know low long you will have to experiment before concluding whether you have hit on something that will keep your taste buds enticed or whether you are forced to return to 100% juice for pain control. At least at this stage you have the option of rotating grape juice and apple juice for control. Keep me posted on your experiment.
Briefly, arthritis is essentially inflammation of one or more joints, with symptoms of pain and stiffness that increase as we age. The two most common types of arthritis known are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid refers to chronic inflammation primarily of the small joints of hands and feet but can also cause fever and fatigue. It is more prevalent in women than in men and commonly affects those between the ages of 40 and 60. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, meaning the immune system incorrectly attacks a person’s own body’s tissues.
Osteoarthritis (OA) occurs when cartilage at the ends of bones wears down. Areas most commonly affected are the joints of the neck, lower back, hips, knees, and hands. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, bone spurs, and grating that can be heard with use of the joint. It worsens with time and while there is no cure, treatment is available and may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) and acetaminophen that are available over-the-counter or prescription drugs that may contain codeine. The primary problems with narcotics such as codeine or hydrocodone and others are nausea and constipation. A physical therapist might be recommended who can help create a regimen of exercise to strengthen muscles around joints, lessen pain and increase range of motion. Beyond that, lubricating injections, corticosteroids, acupuncture, tai chi and yoga might be worth considering.
Readers who are interested in learning more can order Dr. Gott’s Health Reports “Osteoarthritis” and “Compelling Home Remedies” by sending a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and a $2 (for each report) US check or money order to Dr. Gott’s Health Reports, PO Box 433, Lakeville, CT 06039. Be sure to mention the title(s) or print an order form from www.AskDrGottMD.com.