Arthritis, often regarded as a typical part of aging, affects around 50 million people in the United States. With both the elderly and younger populations experiencing this debilitating joint condition, achieving long-term relief has become a challenge. However, recent research on natural treatments and alternative therapies is offering new hope for combating arthritis and joint issues.
Galectin-3: What You Need to Know
Galectin-3 is a specific protein found in the body, and when its levels become too high in the bloodstream, it leads to chronic inflammation responsible for numerous degenerative diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and arthritis. Normal levels of galectin-3 are healthy and play crucial roles in cellular communication, development, and immunity. However, when elevated, galectin-3 actively promotes cancer by allowing cancer cells to clump together, grow, metastasize, and evade the immune system.
Elevated levels of galectin-3 have been found to be directly responsible for the inflammation, stiffness, swelling, and joint destruction characteristic of arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis. Research has also shown that a dietary supplement called modified citrus pectin (MCP) has the unique ability to bind to and inhibit galectin-3, offering protection against a range of inflammatory diseases, including arthritis.
How MCP Combats Arthritis
MCP, which has been prescribed for over 15 years to address cancer and heavy metal toxicity, has unique anti-arthritic actions. Since the 1990s, published research has shown MCP’s effectiveness in preventing cancer growth and metastasis by blocking excess galectin-3 molecules and selectively modulating the immune system. Clinical research has also shown MCP’s ability to safely remove heavy metals, such as lead, mercury, and nickel, from the body without affecting essential minerals.
When taken for just a few weeks, many arthritis sufferers reported a noticeable reduction in joint pain and stiffness, as well as an overall increase in well-being. MCP’s ability to relieve arthritis was initially attributed to its heavy metal detoxification benefits, as heavy metals can accumulate in joints and surrounding tissues, causing inflammation and pain.
However, as the body of galectin-3 research grew, scientists discovered galectin-3’s primary role in fueling inflammation and fibrosis throughout the body. That’s when MCP’s primary mechanisms against arthritis became clear.
MCP: The Proven Galectin-3 Inhibitor
MCP is alternatively produced from regular citrus pectin using an enzymatic modification process that allows it to absorb into the circulation and work throughout the body. Through the expanding field of galectin-3 research, MCP is earning recognition as a proven natural galectin-3 inhibitor. It binds and blocks excess galectin-3 molecules, chelates heavy metals without affecting essential minerals, and provides additional immune modulating properties that are helpful for people with autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis.
Galectin-3 and Arthritis Research
High levels of galectin-3 molecules have been found in joints affected by rheumatoid arthritis, responsible for stimulating the production of inflammatory proteins that promote joint destruction. When taken as a supplement, MCP’s specific structure allows it to attach to galectin-3 molecules and inactivate them, consequently breaking the cycle of inflammation, pain, and joint damage.
The Importance of Galectin-3 Blood Tests
In 2011, the Food and Drug Administration approved a simple galectin-3 serum test to determine cardiovascular disease risks and prognosis. Experts estimate that this test will soon be approved in the diagnostic and prognostic evaluation of various conditions, including diabetes, hepatitis, cirrhosis, kidney disease, and arthritis.
Additional Therapies for Arthritis
One of the most important therapeutic goals in dealing with arthritis and other related conditions is to reduce inflammation and increase circulation. A number of integrative therapies could be useful, including research suggesting that herbs like boswellia, curcumin from turmeric, gotu kola, and stinging nettle can benefit those with rheumatoid arthritis. Diet and lifestyle adjustments are also critical in minimizing arthritis symptoms. A nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory diet emphasizing alkaline foods can make a significant difference. Regular, gentle exercises, such as walking or Tai Chi, can also help reduce inflammation and support circulation to joints and tissues.
Maintaining a healthy weight is another important component of an anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritis program. Additionally, therapies such as massage, osteopathy, and acupuncture can significantly help in alleviating arthritis symptoms.
