Sunlight may lower the risk of rheumatoid arthritis in women

On arrival at Arthritis Supermarket this morning it was great to hear that we had all managed to get out and spend some time in the early Spring sunshine. Although it was only last week that the UK was recovering from its second bout of snow, you may just have noticed that the mornings are beginning to get a little lighter even if it’s just a minute or so each day. 

                                            

It may also surprise you to know that as well as making us feel like the dark days of winter are behind us, the sunshine is actually good for us! A recent article in the BMJ suggested that there may be a link between sunlight and rheumatoid arthritis.The researchers speculated that Vitamin D, which is produced within the body as a result of the skin’s exposure to sunlight may also help to protect the body.

 Leading medical research charity Arthritis Research UK  hi-light the benefits that adequate Vitamin D levels can bring. The action of ultraviolet light  from the sun on the skin  aids the absorption of calcium, which in turn helps to build strong bones. Vitamin D may also help prevent bone loss and muscle weakness.

Some studies have also shown that by getting adequate amounts of Vitamin D this may help to slow down the progress of osteoarthritis in the hip. In another larger study begun in 1986 it was found that those who had less than 200 IU of vitamin D each day had a 33% greater risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis ,although researchers were unsure as to why this should occur- perhaps  because of the effects upon the immune system. If you are concerned about your Vitamin D levels visit your GP.

Arthritis Research UK advise that by exposing your arms and face to  15 minutes  of sunshine a day (making sure of course that you don’t allow your skin to redden and taking care not to burn)  can help the body manufacture  an adequate supply of Vitamin D.

Experts suggest that generally the best time for your body to manufacture Vitamin D is during the sunny(!) months from about the end of March through to September

In the less sunny months, you can help yourself by topping up your vitamin D levels through a varied diet by eating more oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, pilchards and sardines. Other sources include egg yolks, butter and cheese and foods fortified with Vitamin D including breakfast cereals and milk.You might also consider taking a dietary supplement, but always check with your doctor before taking them.

As we well know, the British weather cannot always be relied upon, and when you factor in concerns over skin cancer and our increasingly indoor lifestyles, taking a supplement may help you to store the Vitamin D your body needs to sustain you throughout the year.

 Here at the Arthritis Supermarket our Vitamin D supplement contains 1000 IU (international units) per tablet, which gives you your recommended daily allowance.

We hope that the sun continues to shine in your part of the world.

Arthritis: The benefits of exercise

How are your New Year Resolutions going? 
 If you are anything like the team at the Arthritis Supermarket, we’ve found that the initial enthusiasm for them starting to wane a little- however  we are determined to keep them!

Two recent articles in the news high-light the importance of keeping up a common resolution- getting fitter and losing weight.

A survey released by Arthritis Research UK and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy  

on 29^th January  2013 revealed that over a third of people who began a fitness regime in January had  stopped or significantly reduced their amount of exercise by February. Furthermore only one third of those who began in January had maintained their exercise programme.

If you suffer with arthritis, the thought of exercise may seem even more daunting, however, both Arthritis Research UK and the  National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS)  comment that regular, light exercise, little and often, is incredibly important  in order to keep your joints healthy and flexible.

Exercise can help to strengthen joints and ease stiffness, as well as maintain your health and wellbeing. We're not suggesting that you start training for the London Marathon or 'go for the burn' in a high energy steps class, but perhaps some gentle swimming (which is great, as  the water buoys you therefore putting less strain on your joints) or brisk walking.

Another article in  Arthritis Today (published 24^th Jan 2013) discusses a number of studies that have been conducted worldwide that reflect the many impacts of being overweight  on those with arthritis. It can put strain on weight bearing joints, particularly your knees, and that losing even a small amount of weight can make a difference.

As with all new activity, there is a temptation to do too much too soon, and it’s important that you discuss with your physiotherapist or GP before embarking on any exercise programme.  Set yourself small realistic goals, in an activity you are going to enjoy, so that you can maintain your motivation.

 

For top tips on exercise visit the NRAS website page or Arthritis Research UK.

We wish you every success in maintaining your New Year Resolutions and should you need us we’re here to help you and your joints.

Now, where did that swimming costume go?