Research indicates that taking probiotics may help to treat rheumatoid arthritis and ease joint pain and that having unbalanced gut flora may cause the disease.
Probiotics are the “good” bacteria in the body and help with digestion, the immune system, and keeping a balance of microorganisms in the gut.
Studies show that probiotics can reduce biomarkers that may lead to inflammation and cause joint pain,
according to the Arthritis Foundation. The intestines often become inflamed in patients with arthritis, allowing for their lining to leak and permitting toxins, germs, and waste to get into the bloodstream. This can trigger inflammation to spread to other parts of the body.
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The National Center for Biotechnological Information noted that one study found patients taking a daily dose of Lactobacillus casei probiotics experienced less activity and inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis compared with a group that took a placebo.
Data of gut flora in mice indicated the creature’s susceptibility to developing arthritis as well, the Arthritis Foundation noted.
The American Association for the Advancement of Science reported in a study on mice with arthritis, a certain bacterium was found to have the immune system produce a certain type of cell that released molecules, which causes inflammation and bone damage.
One study showed that a higher presence of Prevotella copri appeared in patients with
arthritis, Healthline reported. Scientists speculate this type of bacteria may cause an autoimmune response that leads to symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Presence of the bacteria also correlated with a loss of healthy germs in the gut.
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Some look to antibiotics to kill bacteria like Prevotella copri, the American Association for the Advancement of Science reported. Many doctors, however, also recommend taking probiotics when taking antibiotics since they do not differentiate between destroying good and bad microorganisms. Some scientists also think taking probiotics may help to crowd out bad bacteria in the gut.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Can Probiotics Ease Joint Pain?Rheumatoid Arthritis: Can Probiotics Ease Joint Pain?
Healthy bacteria in the form of probiotics can be found in certain dairy products, fermented foods, and dietary supplements. There is not a consensus on dosage for arthritis patients, Healthline noted.
While current research suggests probiotics may be able to help patients with rheumatoid arthritis, the Arthritis Foundation said more research is needed to confirm its beneficial results.
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