Rheumatoid Arthritis - combined knowledge

Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Rheumatoid Arthritis is a real pain. What do books we have on Howicured say about this condition?

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This is all the information I could gather from the Howicured Forum books and other reference sources about Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), organized for someone just starting to research it.

1. Summary

  • Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, usually progressive, autoimmune joint disease that can also affect many organs (lungs, blood vessels, eyes, heart, bones).
  • Conventional medicine sees it as incurable but manageable, aiming to slow or stop joint damage with strong drugs and sometimes surgery.
  • Many natural‑health authors in the Howicured books describe RA as a systemic “toxemic” disease of lifestyle (wrong diet, drugs, stress, lack of rest, etc.) and claim that, if causes are removed and health is rebuilt (fasting, plant‑based diet, rest, etc.), substantial or even complete recovery is often possible, especially before joints are badly destroyed.
  • Diet, fasting, and other lifestyle changes repeatedly show up in both scientific research and natural‑health books as powerful levers for reducing pain, inflammation, and medication needs.

2. Symptoms and progression

From the books and reference texts:

  • Early symptoms

    • Persistent pain, stiffness, and swelling in small joints (fingers, wrists, toes), often worse in the morning or after rest.
    • Fatigue, low energy, low‑grade fever, weight loss.
    • Symmetrical pattern: both hands, both feet, etc.
    • Some describe it as a “cooked food disease” that develops gradually over months with persistent joint pain and stiffness, then spreads to more joints and tissues.
    • Source: “Arthritis” chapter – healthlibrary.com/reading/ncure/chap28.htm (N.Cure book, naturopathic text).

  • Progression

    • Inflammation of the synovium (joint lining) → thickening of the membrane → erosion of cartilage and bone → deformity and loss of motion.
    • Can affect eyes, lungs, blood vessels, gut, blood, bones (osteoporosis).
    • Associated systemic issues mentioned in books: anemia, colitis, constipation, gall‑bladder disturbances, low blood pressure, deformed hands and feet.
    • Source: Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, 3rd ed., “Rheumatoid arthritis”.

  • Natural‑health view of progression

    • RA and other “rheumatic diseases” are seen as chronic toxemia: toxins from wrong diet, drugs, and lifestyle accumulate in connective tissues and joints, causing inflammation, calcium deposits, and eventual deformity.
    • Acute arthritis often becomes chronic because of drug suppression and continued unhealthful living.
    • Sources:
      • Life Science Course – Lesson 72: Rheumatic Diseases (Dr. Herbert M. Shelton, Dr. Robert R. Gross, V. V. Vetrano).
      • “Arthritis” – Dr. Robert R. Gross (in the same course).

3. Conventional medicine

3.1 What is the cause of RA?

Modern research (up‑to‑date overview):

  • Autoimmune disease: the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovial lining of joints.

  • Genetic predisposition:

    • HLA‑DRB1 “shared epitope” genes strongly increase risk.
    • Many RA patients share genes with relatives who have other autoimmune diseases (lupus, MS, etc.).
    • Source: Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, 3rd ed., “Rheumatoid arthritis”; plus modern rheumatology reviews (e.g., Smolen JS et al., Lancet 2016;387:220–232).

  • Environmental triggers (in genetically susceptible people):

    • Smoking – one of the strongest known risk factors.
    • Periodontal (gum) disease, certain infections (bacteria/viruses) are suspected triggers.
    • Hormonal factors – pregnancy often improves RA temporarily; postpartum flares are common.
    • Source: standard rheumatology reviews; Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, RA.

  • Gut and diet (research trend):

    • Altered gut microbiome and increased intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”) are increasingly implicated.
    • Some studies show that dietary patterns (high in red meat, processed foods, low in fiber) correlate with higher RA risk and activity.

Conventional medicine does not claim a single simple cause; it sees RA as a multifactorial autoimmune disease.

3.2 How to treat/cure it with modern medicine, and what are the odds?

Conventional goal: remission or low disease activity, not “cure” in the sense of permanent disappearance without treatment.

Main tools (current standard of care):

  1. NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, etc.)

    • Reduce pain and some inflammation.
    • Do not stop joint damage.
    • Risks: stomach ulcers, kidney issues, cardiovascular risk.

  2. Glucocorticoids (prednisone, etc.)

    • Powerful anti‑inflammatory; can quickly reduce pain and swelling.
    • Used short‑term or at low dose as a “bridge” until other drugs work.
    • Risks: osteoporosis, weight gain, diabetes, infections, adrenal suppression.
    • Natural‑health authors (Shelton, Gross, Vetrano) are very critical, seeing them as palliatives that worsen long‑term health.
    • Source: Life Science Course – Lesson 72.

  3. Conventional DMARDs (Disease‑Modifying Anti‑Rheumatic Drugs)

    • Methotrexate – cornerstone first‑line DMARD.
    • Others: sulfasalazine, leflunomide, hydroxychloroquine, gold compounds (older), D‑penicillamine, etc.
    • Aim: slow or halt joint damage by modulating the immune system.
    • Risks: liver toxicity, bone‑marrow suppression, lung toxicity, infections, etc.
    • Source: Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, RA.

  4. Biologic and targeted synthetic DMARDs (newer, “top notch” research)

    • TNF‑α inhibitors (etanercept, infliximab, adalimumab, etc.).
    • IL‑6 receptor blockers (tocilizumab, sarilumab).
    • B‑cell depletion (rituximab).
    • T‑cell co‑stimulation blockers (abatacept).
    • JAK inhibitors (tofacitinib, baricitinib, upadacitinib).
    • These can induce deep remission in a large fraction of patients but carry risks: serious infections, malignancy signals, cardiovascular events (especially some JAK inhibitors), lab abnormalities.
    • Modern treat‑to‑target strategies (tight control, early aggressive therapy) have dramatically improved outcomes compared to 30–40 years ago.

  5. Surgery and rehab

    • Joint replacement (hip, knee, sometimes shoulder) when joints are destroyed.
    • Synovectomy, tendon repair, arthrodesis (fusion) for pain and stability.
    • Physical therapy to maintain mobility and function.
    • Source: Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, RA.

Odds of success (modern view):

  • With early, aggressive treatment and modern biologics/targeted drugs:
    • A significant proportion (often quoted 40–60% in studies) can reach clinical remission or very low disease activity.
    • Many can work and live relatively normal lives if they tolerate the drugs.
  • True drug‑free remission is less common but does occur in a minority.
  • Conventional rheumatology still generally says RA is “incurable”; stopping all treatment often leads to relapse.

Key conventional sources:

  • Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, 3rd ed., “Rheumatoid arthritis”.
  • Smolen JS, Aletaha D, McInnes IB. “Rheumatoid arthritis.” Lancet. 2016;387(10021):220–232.
  • American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and EULAR treatment guidelines (latest updates).

4. Alternative medicine and natural approaches

Here I’ll focus on what the Howicured‑type books and similar natural‑health sources say, and then note where this overlaps or conflicts with research.

4.1 What causes RA (natural‑health view)?

Across several books, the theme is very consistent:

  • RA and other arthritides are not fundamentally different diseases, but different expressions of the same underlying toxemia and lifestyle breakdown.

Key ideas:

  1. Toxemia and impaired metabolism

    • Wrong diet (heavy on cooked, processed, animal and refined foods), overeating, stimulants (coffee, alcohol, tobacco), drugs, lack of sleep, lack of exercise, emotional stress → chronic toxemia (poisons in blood and tissues).
    • These toxins are stored in connective tissues and joints, leading to inflammation, calcium deposits, and deformity.
    • Source:
      • Dr. Robert R. Gross – “Arthritis” (Life Science Course, Lesson 72).
      • Dr. Herbert M. Shelton – “Why You Have Arthritis” (same lesson).

  2. “Cooked food disease” and acid‑forming diet

    • One book explicitly calls RA the “cooked food disease”: chronic use of cooked, denatured, acid‑forming foods (meat, refined grains, sugar, etc.) leads to acid waste deposits in joints.
    • RA is linked to food allergies and intolerances (milk, cheese, eggs, wheat, corn, beef, sugar, yeast, etc.).
    • Sources:
      • Naturopathic arthritis chapter – healthlibrary.com/reading/ncure/chap28.htm.
      • Case reports and studies summarized in a natural‑health arthritis book (author not named in the excerpt, but clearly a holistic MD).

  3. Drug damage and suppression

    • Long‑term use of aspirin, cortisone, gold salts, phenylbutazone, etc. is said to damage the heart, blood, and joints, turning mild arthritis into hopeless crippling disease.
    • “There is tremendously more harm, suffering, inconvenience and abuse caused by the treatment employed than by the arthritis itself.”
    • Sources:
      • Dr. Herbert M. Shelton – “Well! You Wanted to Know!” and “Why You Have Arthritis” (Life Science Course, Lesson 72).
      • Dr. Robert R. Gross – “Arthritis”.

  4. General lifestyle breakdown

    • Lack of rest, chronic stress, emotional turmoil, lack of sunshine and fresh air, sedentary life – all seen as contributors to lowered nerve energy and impaired elimination, setting the stage for RA.
    • Source: Life Science Course, Lesson 72.

This view differs from conventional medicine by:

  • Treating RA as one expression of a general disease of the whole organism, not a local joint disease.
  • Emphasizing toxemia and lifestyle over genes and autoimmunity.
  • Seeing drugs as a major cause of chronicity and degeneration, not the solution.

4.2 How to cure RA – natural approaches and success stories

The books describe several main strategies:

A. Fasting and “physiological rest”

  • Water fasting (sometimes preceded by juice/raw‑food days) is presented as the most powerful tool to detoxify and calm inflammation.

Examples and claims:

  1. Don Smith – 10‑year RA case

    • Diagnosed with RA after years of pain moving from joint to joint (shoulders, hands, feet, knees).
    • Treated with a long list of drugs: aspirin, Butazolidin, Prednisone, Plaquenil, Tandearil, Methotrexate, antidepressants, gold injections, Motrin, etc.
    • Severe side effects: blood cell disturbances, ringing in the ears, other problems.
    • After 9 years of misery, he tried a doctor‑supervised lifestyle overhaul:
      • 9 days: only raw fruits and vegetables, gradually tapering off aspirin and prednisone.
      • Next 3 days: fruit breakfast, green juice (spinach, parsley, celery) for lunch and dinner.
      • Then a total water fast for more than two weeks.
      • Broke the fast with 5 days of fruit and vegetable juices, then 13 days of raw fruits, raw and cooked vegetables, and rice.
    • Result:
      • First 4 days off drugs: intense pain, no sleep.
      • By day 5: dramatic reduction in pain.
      • At the end: pain minimal, off all medication, planning another fast to clear remaining pain.
    • Source: Holistic arthritis book (case of “Don Smith”; excerpt in the guidance text).

  2. Shelton/Gross/Vetrano cases

    • Many RA and osteoarthritis patients reportedly recovered normal joint function through:
      • Supervised fasting (sometimes repeated).
      • Followed by a diet of fruits, vegetables, and raw nuts.
    • Claims:
      • Relief from excruciating pain within a few days of fasting.
      • Marked reduction of swelling and enlargement of joints.
      • Restoration of motion in stiff joints.
      • Some advanced cases required 1–2 years of disciplined living and multiple fasts.
    • Sources:
      • Dr. Robert R. Gross – “Arthritis”.
      • Dr. Herbert M. Shelton – “Why You Have Arthritis” (Life Science Course, Lesson 72).

  3. Naturopathic juice therapy

    • In severe cases, a week of raw vegetable juice therapy is recommended:
      • Green juice from leafy greens mixed with carrot, celery, and beet juice.
      • Fresh pineapple juice (bromelain) to reduce swelling and inflammation.
      • Repeated juice fasts every two months.
    • Raw potato juice (or potato slices soaked in water overnight) is described as a traditional remedy for rheumatic and arthritic conditions.
    • Source: “Arthritis” – healthlibrary.com/reading/ncure/chap28.htm.

How this compares to research:

  • Modern clinical trials show that short‑term fasting can reduce inflammatory markers and pain in RA, and that plant‑based or Mediterranean diets after fasting can maintain benefits.
  • However, long water fasts should be medically supervised, especially if someone is on RA drugs.

B. Diet changes

The books and some scientific studies converge strongly here.

  1. Elimination of trigger foods and allergens

    • Studies cited in the holistic arthritis book:

      • London medical school: milk and cheese aggravated RA.
      • Wayne State University: RA patients on a fat‑free diet became completely free of joint pain.
      • Another study: 44 RA patients improved pain and swelling when wheat, corn, and beef were removed.
      • Short periods of fasting relieved arthritic pain, confirmed by blood tests.
      • Reduced overall food intake reduced RA severity.

    • Source: Holistic arthritis book (journal studies listed in its bibliography).

    • Naturopathic texts:

      • RA and osteoarthritis often linked to food allergies (eggs, milk, sugar, wheat, yeast).
      • Recommend elimination/challenge diets to identify triggers.
      • Source: Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, RA; healthlibrary.com/reading/ncure/chap28.htm.

  2. Alkaline, plant‑based diet

    • Recommended pattern:
      • Base diet on fresh fruits and vegetables, especially raw salads and cooked vegetables.
      • Include: cabbage, carrot, celery, cucumber, endive, lettuce, onion, radish, tomatoes, watercress, asparagus, beets, cauliflower, spinach, peas, beans, squash, turnips.
      • Use whole grains like rice; avoid refined flour and sugar.
      • Minimize or eliminate meat, dairy, eggs, and processed foods.
    • Rationale:
      • Alkaline‑forming foods help dissolve deposits around joints and reduce inflammation.
    • Sources:

  3. Specific foods and supplements

    • Green juices (leafy greens + carrot/celery/beet) – for alkalinity and minerals.
    • Fresh pineapple / bromelain – anti‑inflammatory enzyme.
    • Black sesame (gingelly) seeds soaked overnight – traditional remedy for joint pains; water and seeds taken in the morning.
    • Water kept overnight in a copper vessel – trace copper to support connective tissue; copper bracelets sometimes used.
    • Garlic, fenugreek, green‑gram soup – traditional anti‑inflammatory and detoxifying foods.
    • Fish oils, antioxidants (A, C, E, selenium, zinc), bromelain, pancreatin – recommended in the Gale alternative medicine entry for RA.
    • Sources:

  4. Vegetarian / vegan patterns

    • Gale Encyclopedia notes that a vegetarian diet low in animal products and sugar may decrease inflammation and pain.
    • Beneficial foods: cold‑water fish (for omega‑3s) and flavonoid‑rich berries (cherries, blueberries, hawthorn berries, blackberries).
    • Source: Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, RA.

Where research agrees:

  • Multiple trials show that vegan or vegetarian diets, especially after a short fast, can reduce RA symptoms and inflammatory markers in many patients.
  • Omega‑3 fatty acids from fish oil have moderate evidence for reducing RA pain and NSAID needs.

C. Natural hygiene / lifestyle overhaul

From Shelton, Gross, Vetrano and similar authors:

  • Core principles:

    1. Remove causes: wrong diet, stimulants, drugs, overwork, emotional stress.
    2. Provide conditions for healing: rest, sleep, fresh air, sunshine, moderate exercise, simple natural diet.
    3. Use fasting as the main “treatment” to allow the body to detoxify and repair.
    4. Avoid all palliative drugs (aspirin, cortisone, etc.) as much as possible, because they suppress symptoms while worsening the underlying toxemia.

  • They insist that chronic RA is not hopeless:

    • “Chronic rheumatoid arthritis is a state from which recovery (full and lasting recovery) is easily possible if a Hygienic program is fitted to the individual’s needs before irreparable damages have occurred in the joint tissues.”
    • Even apparently hopeless cases can make full recovery, though structural damage already present may not reverse.
    • Source: Dr. Herbert M. Shelton – Life Science Course, Lesson 72.

D. Earthing / grounding

One of the books (on Earthing) includes RA testimonials:

  • Sheila Curtiss, 63, RA in knees and multiple joints

    • Severe pain and swelling, advised to have knee surgery.
    • Started grounding (barefoot on earth, grounded pads while at computer, TV, and during sleep).
    • Within three weeks, pain and swelling in knees were gone; over time, all joints stopped popping.
    • She remained grounded continuously and reported being able to hike, walk, and exercise freely years later.
    • Source: Earthing book (Clint Ober et al.), testimonial of Sheila Curtiss.

  • Howell Runion, PhD, 76, RA in hands, shoulders, lumbar area, lower extremities

    • Long‑standing progressive RA, on many medications.
    • Sleeping grounded produced a significant decrease in discomfort; stopping grounding worsened symptoms, restarting improved them again.
    • Source: Earthing book, testimonial of Howell Runion.

These are case reports, not controlled trials, but they are part of the Howicured‑type literature.

E. Other natural therapies

From the Gale alternative medicine entry and naturopathic texts:

  • Bodywork and movement

    • Massage (often with rosemary, chamomile, or warm sesame oil) to loosen stiff joints and improve circulation.
    • Hydrotherapy: warm baths, especially with sea salt; moist heat for chronic stiffness, cold packs for acute flares.
    • Sea bathing for natural iodine and minerals; or warm baths with sea salt if sea is not available.
    • Yoga, tai chi, qigong to maintain flexibility and reduce stress.
    • Source: Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, RA; healthlibrary.com/reading/ncure/chap28.htm.

  • Herbs

    • Anti‑inflammatory herbs: turmeric, ginger, feverfew, devil’s claw, Chinese thoroughwax, licorice.
    • Topical: lobelia and cramp bark on joints.
    • Source: Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, RA.

  • Homeopathy

    • Rhus toxicodendron and Bryonia for acute prescriptions; constitutional treatment for chronic RA.
    • Source: Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, RA.

5. When sources differ – brief comparison

  • Cause of RA

    • Conventional: autoimmune disease with genetic and environmental triggers; toxemia is not a standard concept.
    • Natural‑health: systemic toxemia from wrong living; autoimmunity is a label for the body’s defensive efforts under toxic overload.
    • Practical overlap: both acknowledge roles for environment, infections, hormones, and lifestyle; natural‑health goes much further on diet and fasting.

  • Curability

    • Conventional: RA is chronic and incurable, but remission is achievable with ongoing treatment.
    • Natural‑health: RA is reversible to a large extent if causes are removed early enough; full recovery (often drug‑free) is claimed in many cases, though structural damage may remain.
    • Reality likely varies by individual and disease stage; early, aggressive lifestyle change plus appropriate medical care seems most promising.

  • Drugs

    • Conventional: DMARDs and biologics are essential to prevent disability; risks are managed with monitoring.
    • Natural‑health: drugs are palliatives that often worsen long‑term outcomes and should be minimized or avoided, replaced by fasting and lifestyle correction.
    • A balanced approach for many people is to use the minimum effective medication while aggressively improving diet and lifestyle, under medical supervision.

  • Diet and fasting

    • Conventional: acknowledges some benefit from weight loss, Mediterranean/plant‑based diets, and possibly fasting, but does not see them as cures.
    • Natural‑health: sees diet and fasting as central, often decisive.
    • Evidence: multiple studies support meaningful improvements from diet and fasting; whether they can fully replace drugs depends on the individual and disease severity.

If you’d like, next we can:

  • Sketch a step‑by‑step natural program (diet, fasting options, lifestyle, grounding, etc.) based on these books,
  • Or look at specific questions (e.g., “Is it safe to fast if I’m on methotrexate?” or “How to test which foods trigger my RA?”) with both natural and medical perspectives.
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@HowicuredAI Where did you get that ?

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The phrase “cooked food disease” comes from natural‑health / naturopathic literature on arthritis, not from mainstream rheumatology.

In the material I summarized, it’s used in two closely related contexts:

  1. Naturopathic arthritis chapter (online book)

    • The idea is that chronic rheumatic diseases (including rheumatoid arthritis) are largely the result of long‑term use of cooked, denatured, acid‑forming foods (meat, refined grains, sugar, etc.), with too little fresh raw plant food.
    • This is the same chapter that talks about:
      • Milk/cheese aggravating RA
      • Relief when wheat, corn, beef are removed
      • Fasting and raw‑food periods improving symptoms
    • Source I drew from:

  2. Natural Hygiene / Life Science Course authors (Shelton, Gross, Vetrano)

    • They don’t always use the exact phrase “cooked food disease,” but they repeatedly describe arthritis and RA as:
      • A consequence of wrong diet (heavy cooked/processed foods, animal products, refined carbs)
      • A form of chronic toxemia from “civilized” eating and living
    • In that framework, RA is effectively treated as a “cooked‑food, toxemia disease” that improves when people switch to raw fruits/vegetables, simple plant foods, and fasting.
    • Source:
      • Life Science Course – Lesson 72: Rheumatic Diseases (Herbert M. Shelton, Robert R. Gross, V. V. Vetrano).

So: it’s a natural‑health book phrase, not a medical diagnosis term. I used it because it appears in that style of literature to emphasize the link they see between RA and long‑term reliance on cooked/processed, acid‑forming foods.

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Jeszcze garść informacji ze starej strony howicured.org :

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?

Pain in wrists - a common symptom of rheumathoid arthritis. Source: google images

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease that primarily affects the joints. It causes inflammation, pain, swelling, and in advanced cases can lead to permanent joint damage and disability. RA can also affect other systems and organs in the body, impacting not only the physical aspects of health, but also quality of life, ability to work, and functioning in society. RA can occur at different ages, but it is most often diagnosed in adults between 30 and 50 years of age. The disease is more common in women than in men. Many factors, both genetic and environmental, can contribute to its development. It is estimated that worldwide the disease affects about 0.5–1% of the population₂, which makes it one of the most common rheumatic diseases[1]. In Poland, about 350,000 people suffer from RA[2].

Rheumatism, RA and arthritis – learn the differences to better understand the source of pain

Many people confuse the concepts of rheumatism, RA and arthritis. Although these are conditions that can produce similar symptoms, they differ in cause, course and treatment. It is worth knowing these differences in order to better understand these diseases and know how to deal with them.

What is rheumatism?

Rheumatism is a general term covering more than 100 different diseases that affect the musculoskeletal system. Rheumatic diseases are characterized by:

  • pain,

  • inflammation,

  • degeneration of joints, muscles and connective tissues.

Rheumatic diseases include, among others:

  • rheumatoid arthritis (RA),

  • systemic lupus erythematosus,

  • fibromyalgia,

  • systemic sclerosis,

  • ankylosing spondylitis (AS),

  • polymyositis,

  • psoriatic arthritis.

What is RA?

RA (rheumatoid arthritis) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease. This means that the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues, in this case the synovial membrane of the joints. This leads to:

  • pain,

  • swelling,

  • stiffness,

  • and in advanced stages to joint deformities.

Characteristic features of RA:

  • joint inflammation (e.g. wrists, knees),

  • morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes,

  • fatigue,

  • presence of rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-CCP antibodies in blood tests.

What is arthritis (gout)?

Arthritis, also known as gout, is a metabolic disease caused by the deposition of uric acid crystals in the joints. Excess uric acid in the blood may result from its overproduction or from kidney failure to excrete it. The deposition of crystals causes:

  • sudden, severe attacks of pain,

  • redness,

  • swelling and a feeling of heat in the affected joint.

Characteristic features of arthritis:

  • paroxysmal nature of pain,

  • most commonly affected is the joint at the base of the big toe,

  • elevated uric acid levels in the blood.

RA vs arthritis – main differences

Feature RA Arthritis
Cause Autoimmune disease Metabolic disorders
Course Chronic, progressive Paroxysmal
Location Usually many joints, symmetrically Often a single joint, especially the big toe
Symptoms Pain, swelling, stiffness, deformities Sudden, severe pain, redness, swelling

Other rheumatic diseases

In addition to RA and arthritis, there are many other rheumatic diseases, such as:

  • systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE),

  • ankylosing spondylitis (AS),

  • psoriatic arthritis,

  • systemic sclerosis,

  • polymyositis.

Each of these diseases has its own specific symptoms and requires an individual therapeutic approach.

Rheumatism is a broad term covering many diseases, including RA and arthritis. RA is an autoimmune disease, while arthritis is a metabolic disease. It is important to know the differences between these conditions in order to diagnose and treat them correctly. If a rheumatic disease is suspected, a rheumatologist should be consulted.

Epidemiology

RA is more common in developed countries. In Europe, including Poland, it is diagnosed mainly in women, 2–3 times more often than in men[3]. RA generates significant health and social costs because it affects the ability to work, daily activity and the mental state of patients. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and maintain the best possible quality of life for the patient.

Risk Factors

RA is a multifactorial disease and its development may be caused by:

  • Genetic factors: Genetic predisposition plays a significant role in the development of RA. Polymorphisms in genes, especially in the HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) system, are associated with a higher risk of developing the disease[4].

  • Environmental factors: Smoking is one of the most important environmental factors increasing the risk of RA[5]. Exposure to certain pathogens and occupational factors, such as contact with silica, may also influence the development of the disease.

  • Hormonal factors: Estrogens can affect the immune system, which explains why RA occurs more often in women. Early menopause is a risk factor for the development of RA[6].

Pathophysiology

RA is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks its own tissues. In the case of RA, the target of the attack is the synovial membrane of the joints, which leads to chronic inflammation and joint destruction. This process includes:

  • Proliferation of the synovial membrane: The so-called pannus is formed – a thickened synovial membrane that destroys cartilage and bone.

  • Production of pro-inflammatory cytokines: Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukins (IL-1, IL-6) and other inflammatory mediators maintain and intensify inflammation[7].

  • Formation of antibodies: In patients, the presence of rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-CCP antibodies (against citrullinated peptides) is often found; these are markers of disease activity[8].

Clinical Symptoms

Articular Symptoms

  • Joint pain: Concerns primarily the small joints of the hands and feet, worse in the morning and after periods of inactivity.

  • Morning stiffness: Usually lasts more than 30 minutes, and often more than an hour.

  • Swelling and redness of the joints: Resulting from active inflammation and accumulation of fluid in the joints.

  • Symmetry of changes: A characteristic feature of RA is bilateral involvement of the joints, which distinguishes it from other rheumatic diseases[9].

Extra-articular Symptoms

RA can also affect other systems:

  • Fatigue and weakness: Resulting from chronic inflammation.

  • Low-grade fever: Periodic increases in body temperature.

  • Weight and appetite loss.

  • Organ changes: RA can lead to interstitial lung disease, pericarditis, conjunctivitis and other complications[10].

Diagnosis of RA

How to Recognize RA?

The diagnosis of RA is based on:

  • Medical history: The doctor asks about symptoms, their duration, severity and impact on daily life.

  • Physical examination: Assessment of the joints for swelling, redness, tenderness and limited range of motion.

  • Laboratory tests: Tests for the presence of rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-CCP antibodies. Measurement of ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and CRP (C-reactive protein) to assess inflammation.

  • Imaging tests: X-rays, ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging, which help assess joint damage and early inflammatory changes[11].

Diagnostic Criteria

To diagnose RA, the 2010 ACR/EULAR criteria are used. They include assessment of the number and type of joints affected by inflammation, the presence of markers (RF, anti-CCP), the level of inflammatory markers (ESR, CRP) and the duration of symptoms (more than 6 weeks)[12].

Treatment of RA

Traditional Treatment Methods

The main goal of RA treatment is to achieve remission or low disease activity and to prevent joint damage, which translates into improved quality of life for the patient.

  • Methotrexate: First-line drug, inhibits the proliferation of immune system cells.

  • Leflunomide: An alternative to methotrexate, acting on similar principles.

  • Sulfasalazine and Hydroxychloroquine: Used in milder forms of the disease[13].

  • TNF-α inhibitors: Adalimumab, etanercept, infliximab – block the action of molecules that cause inflammation.

  • IL-6 inhibitors: Tocilizumab – affects inflammatory cytokines.

  • T-cell costimulation inhibitors: Abatacept – inhibits T-cell activation.

  • B-cell depletion: Rituximab – acts on B lymphocytes[14].

  • Tofacitinib, baricitinib: Oral drugs that inhibit Janus kinases (JAK), affecting the transmission of pro-inflammatory signals[15].

  • NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs): Relieve pain and reduce swelling.

  • Glucocorticosteroids: Used in short-term therapy of disease exacerbations[16].

The Role of Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy

Regular exercise, movement therapy and physiotherapy help maintain joint mobility, increase muscle strength and improve overall functioning. Exercises must be tailored to the stage of the disease[17].

The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Treatment

Early and intensive treatment of RA, especially with DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs), significantly improves prognosis and reduces the risk of permanent joint damage. Delaying treatment, even by a few months, can lead to irreversible changes[18].

Alternative Methods of Treating RA

Many people with RA look for alternative ways to relieve symptoms or achieve a lasting cure. An example is the story of Jarek Growin, founder of the portal JakWyleczylem.pl, who claims that he overcame the disease through:

  • Water fasting: Regular fasts cleansing the body.

  • Elimination diet: Excluding from the diet proteins and grains that may trigger autoimmune reactions.

  • Lifestyle change: Physical activity, stress reduction, taking care of sleep quality and using a healthy diet during the treatment period.

Scientific Approach to Dietetics in RA

Studies suggest an impact of diet on the course of RA:

  • Mediterranean diet: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vegetables and fruit, may reduce inflammation[19].

  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Supplementation may reduce joint pain and improve joint function[20].

  • Avoiding pro-inflammatory foods: Limiting trans fats and excess simple sugars may reduce symptoms[21].

Jarek Growin believes that supplementation in RA, which is not caused by deficiencies, does not eliminate the source of the problem, namely leaks in the digestive system, and does not bring real improvement.

Fasting and Starvation Diets

Some studies suggest anti-inflammatory effects of short-term fasts. Long-term fasts can lead to nutrient deficiencies and be dangerous, so they require medical supervision[22]. Fasting is used in the treatment of RA in clinics such as True North Center in the USA and Arcadia Health Centre in Australia. The first documented case of curing RA with fasting was described by Dr. Henry S. Tanner in 1890 [his book on fasting is in our library Nasza baza ebooków]. According to proponents of this method, a multi-day water fast is effective.

Support and Psychosocial Aspects

Psychological Aspects of RA

Chronic diseases such as RA affect many aspects of life:

  • Depression and anxiety: Often result from constant pain and functional limitations.

  • Reduced quality of life: Affects daily activities and social relationships.

  • Psychological support: Therapy can help in coping with emotional difficulties[23].

Scientific Research and Statistics on RA

  • Mortality and quality of life: Patients with RA have a reduced life expectancy by about 3–10 years[24].

  • Prevalence: In the United States, RA affects about 1.3 million people[25].

  • Social costs: RA is one of the main causes of disability and generates significant economic costs[26].

New Therapies and Research on RA

The latest research focuses on:

  • New biological drugs: Targeting specific pro-inflammatory molecules.

  • Immunotherapy: Modifying the immune system to reduce autoaggression.

  • Biomarkers: Enabling early detection of the disease and prediction of its course[27].

My Path to Health and the Mission of Sharing Knowledge

As a person who has struggled with RA, I want to share knowledge and experience to help others find their path to health. I believe that there are many ways to cope with RA, and each person must find the one that will be most effective for them.

RA is a serious, chronic disease that affects many aspects of life, but there are effective treatment methods that can improve quality of life and prevent joint damage. The key is an individual approach, including psychological support, an appropriate diet and lifestyle. On the portal JakWyleczylem.pl you will find support and information. You can also purchase the book “Jak wyleczyłem NIEULECZALNE”, which contains detailed information on oral cavity treatment, conducting fasts and nutrition aimed at intestinal regeneration.

Bibliography/ Footnotes

  1. Smolen JS, Aletaha D, McInnes IB. Rheumatoid arthritis. Lancet. 2016;388(10055):2023-2038. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  2. Samborski W, Brzosko M, Filipowicz-Sosnowska A. Epidemiologia reumatoidalnego zapalenia stawów w Polsce. Reumatologia. 2009;47(6):377-385. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  3. Silman AJ, Pearson JE. Epidemiology and genetics of rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis Res. 2002;4(Suppl 3). :right_arrow_curving_left:

  4. Raychaudhuri S. Recent advances in the genetics of rheumatoid arthritis. Curr Opin Rheumatol. 2010;22(2):109-118. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  5. Sugiyama D, Nishimura K, Tamaki K, et al. Impact of smoking as a risk factor for developing rheumatoid arthritis: a meta-analysis of observational studies. Ann Rheum Dis. 2010;69(1):70-81. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  6. Pikwer M, Bergström U, Nilsson JA, Jacobsson LT, Turesson C. Early menopause is an independent predictor of rheumatoid arthritis. Ann Rheum Dis. 2012;71(3):378-381. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  7. McInnes IB, Schett G. The pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. N Engl J Med. 2011;365(23):2205-2219. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  8. van der Helm-van Mil AH, Huizinga TW, de Vries RR, Toes RE. Emerging patterns of risk factor make-up enable subclassification of rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis Rheum. 2007;56(6):1728-1735. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  9. Scott DL, Wolfe F, Huizinga TW. Rheumatoid arthritis. Lancet. 2010;376(9746):1094-1108. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  10. Turesson C. Extra-articular rheumatoid arthritis. Curr Opin Rheumatol. 2013;25(3):360-366. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  11. Wakefield RJ, D’Agostino MA, Naredo E, et al. After treat-to-target: can a targeted ultrasound initiative improve RA outcomes? Nat Rev Rheumatol. 2012;8(10):563-568. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  12. Aletaha D, Neogi T, Silman AJ, et al. 2010 Rheumatoid arthritis classification criteria: an American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism collaborative initiative. Ann Rheum Dis. 2010;69(9):1580-1588. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  13. Singh JA, Saag KG, Bridges SL Jr, et al. 2015 American College of Rheumatology guideline for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2016;68(1):1-26. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  14. Smolen JS, Landewé R, Bijlsma J, et al. EULAR recommendations for the management of rheumatoid arthritis with synthetic and biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs: 2016 update. Ann Rheum Dis. 2017;76(6):960-977. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  15. Schwartz DM, Kanno Y, Villarino A, Ward M, Gadina M, O’Shea JJ. JAK inhibition as a therapeutic strategy for immune and inflammatory diseases. Nat Rev Drug Discov. 2017;16(12):843-862. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  16. Kirwan JR. The effect of glucocorticoids on joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis. N Engl J Med. 1995;333(3):142-146. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  17. Hurkmans EJ, van der Giesen FJ, Vliet Vlieland TP, Schoones J, Van den Ende EC. Dynamic exercise programs (aerobic capacity and/or muscle strength training) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2009;(4). :right_arrow_curving_left:

  18. van der Kooij SM, le Cessie S, Goekoop-Ruiterman YP, et al. Clinical and radiological efficacy of initial versus delayed treatment with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs in patients with recent-onset rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis Rheum. 2009;60(7):1996-2005. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  19. Sköldstam L, Hagfors L, Johansson G. An experimental study of a Mediterranean diet intervention for patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Ann Rheum Dis. 2003;62(3):208-214. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  20. Fortin PR, Lew RA, Liang MH, et al. Validation of a meta-analysis: the effects of fish oil in rheumatoid arthritis. J Clin Epidemiol. 1995;48(11):1379-1390. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  21. Pattison DJ, Harrison RA, Symmons DP. The role of diet in susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review. J Rheumatol. 2004;31(7):1310-1319. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  22. Muller H, de Toledo FW, Resch KL. Fasting followed by vegetarian diet in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review. Scand J Rheumatol. 2001;30(1):1-10. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  23. Matcham F, Rayner L, Steer S, Hotopf M. The prevalence of depression in rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Rheumatology (Oxford). 2013;52(12):2136-2148. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  24. Gabriel SE. The epidemiology of rheumatoid arthritis. Rheum Dis Clin North Am. 2001;27(2):269-281. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  25. Helmick CG, Felson DT, Lawrence RC, et al. Estimates of the prevalence of arthritis and other rheumatic conditions in the United States: Part I. Arthritis Rheum. 2008;58(1):15-25. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  26. Kvien TK. Epidemiology and burden of illness of rheumatoid arthritis. Pharmacoeconomics. 2004;22(2 Suppl 1):1-12. :right_arrow_curving_left:

  27. Taylor PC, Moore A, Vasilescu R, Alvir J, Tarallo M. A structured literature review of biomarkers for disease progression in rheumatoid arthritis: perspectives from clinical trials and real-world studies. Int J Rheumatol. 2016;2016:3653079