Vitamins and Arthritis: The Roles of Vitamins A, C, D and E

Abstract

Interactions between all of the major joint tissues, including articular cartilage, synovium, and subchondral bone, have been implicated in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA). [24] [53] [69] The pathogenetic mechanisms underlying the development of OA are not fully understood; likewise, those factors that sustain or impede the progression of OA are poorly identified. Nevertheless, patients frequently have sought explanations for the development and progression of OA in dietary practices and nutritional deficiencies from either their health care provider or popular media. Enticing promises have been offered over the decades for inexpensive nutritional supplements that will end the individual's misery. Currently, there is much attention directed toward the use of antioxidant vitamins, and of vitamin D, as a means of preventing or ameliorating the pain and disability of OA. This attention is driven, in part, by our expanding appreciation of nutrition factors, particularly the vitamins, that contribute to oxidate processes and bone turnover that may be intrinsic to the development and progression of OA. Vitamins A, C, and, E are the major antioxidants in the diet or in dietary supplement products that have been identified as having a potential for antioxidant activity in the processes associated with OA. Vitamin D also may play an important role in OA by way of bone.