Dietary Treatment for Patients

1. Omega 3 fatty acid supplementation, 2.5g/day (2500 mg) - best to have a DHA:EPA ratio of 2:1

2. Vitamin Considerations

• Vitamin C for collagen
• Bioflavonoids and Quercetin for inflammation
• Protein for collagen tissue repair
• B complex (especially B1 = thiamine and B12) for inflammation and nerve health 

3. Mineral Considerations

• Calcium: caseinate, chelate, gluconate, lactate, sulfate
• Vitamin D
• Magnesium
• Zinc and Manganese for tendon & ligament strength and healing (also for collagen)

     *GREENS are a good source of minerals - Chlorella, Spirulina, Broccoli, Kale, Beets...

4. Foods for Eat

• Eat 5-9 servings of fresh fruit & vegetables per day - broccoli is one of the best vegetables available.
• Meats - lean sources of chicken, fish, beef
• Plant-based proteins: Chlorella & Spirulina (complete proteins), quinoa, lentils, black beans, chick peas, almonds, chia seeds, brussel sprouts, spinach

5. Foods to Avoid/Minimize

• Coffee, tea, colas (especially "sugar-free") & alcohol
• Chocolate, sugar, white flour
• Chemicals, processed meats, grease, fried foods, salt
• Excitotoxins - GLUTAMATE, ASPARTAME, CYSTEINE - 
  • These food additives have been found to increase the ease of pain reproduction in humans
  • Found in foods containing MSG, Nutri-sweet, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, texturized protein, yeast extract & gelatin

6. Decrease citrus fruits & juices, especially orange juice; the acidity may cause                  increased joint pain.

7. Ice 20 minutes 1-4 times per day.

8. Breathing exercises: in through the nose for 7 seconds, hold for 8 seconds, out through the mouth for 4 seconds. Do this 4 times in a row, 4 times a day.

9. Increase aerobic activity to tolerance with daily walking.