 Nearly 21 million adults in the United States alone suffer from arthritis. Arthritis is the most common cause of disability, limiting what an otherwise healthy adult is able to do. A person suffering from this condition does not have to spend their life at the doctor's office. There are many natural remedies to help with arthritis pain and inflammation. Causes of arthritis There are two common types of arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are caused by the wearing down of cartilage between the joints. In some cases, the body attacks itself and can lead to other diseases and painful joint and muscle conditions. One of the most common causes is also inflammation. Inflammation is caused by a poor diet The food that people eat plays a major role in their overall health. Foods that are high in sugar, wheat and soy, and foods that are easily converted to sugar, such as alcohol and grains, can lead to inflammation. In order to promote healthy eating habits, a person should avoid foods that contain these ingredients for at least two months. It will take at least six week for the body to flush out its system. Not only will a person notice less pain, but they will feel more active too. Natural supplements There are many natural supplements that will help reduce the symptoms of arthritis. The right amount of glucosamine and chondroitin supplements will help lubricate the joints. Cetyl myristoleate, which is a fatty acid, was also shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Exercise helps There are specific exercises that can help ease the pain of arthritis. Exercises that focus on cardiovascular endurance puts less strain on the muscles and joints. Water aerobics are a great low-pressure way to burn off fat and calories. To apply ice or heat? Both ice and heat sources can help treat the pain of arthritis. Ice seems to be more effective in reducing inflammation and reducing swelling. Heat is best for relaxing muscles and increasing blood flow to stiff joints. Reduce exposure to toxins With an environment that is full of toxins, including lead, mercury, and aluminum, it is important to be on the lookout. Common sources of toxins entering the body are found to be through cookware. Teflon found in most pots and pans can lead to an increased risk for arthritis. Benefits of good bacteria It is important for the body's systems to be balanced. There are many forms of good bacteria, a.k.a. probiotics, that help fight off disease and keep the body regular. This will lead to better overall health and reduce the risk of developing arthritis . Arthritis is a painful condition that affects millions of people. With the proper diet and simple lifestyle changes, a person can reduce their risk for developing this condition and live a life that is free of pain. Sources: http://www.healthline.com http://www.health.com http://www.foxnews.com http://science.selfnews.com About the author: Sofiya has written articles on most health-related topics, including traditional medicine, alternative and naturopathic and natural treatments,health insurance, wellness, medical marijuana, diets and fitness. More articles from Dr. Sofia: 5 Tips for Choosing a Health Insurance Company Tips for Buying Affordable Health Insurance Policy Top 8 Tips To Choose A Health Insurance Plan 