John Arts Abundant Living www.johnarts.co.nz

Recently we looked at the increasingly common problem of polymyalgia rheumatica. I was almost overwhelmed with people calling me for information and assistance. If you missed this column, please contact me and I will get you a copy.

There is a lot we can do to help re-build body processes damaged by PMR. One of the first things is to rapidly lift vitamin D to the top of the normal range. Low vitamin D has been linked to several autoimmune problems.

Vitamin D is needed to fully activate special immune helper cells called CD4+T cells. Poor CD4+T function will tend to encourage an inflammatory state by releasing a number of inflammatory chemicals. In PMR, these chemicals inflame muscles and cause stiffness and pain.

With PMR we introduce an anti-inflammatory diet and specialised supplements to target failed immune system processes. We also target energy functions, as this is often greatly affected by PMR. People with PMR often find the low energy as debilitating as the pain and stiffness. Usually people respond within three months.

A fun part of being involved with clinical nutrition is to see often surprising long-term benefits. One of my clients first contacted me about painful shoulders. These resolved after three months of intensive therapy. He's now told me after six months on his programme his blood pressure has reduce to normal, his energy has returned, he's mentally sharper and is generally feeling much better in himself. Some things change quickly, others need time and patience.

The body has an amazing ability to heal if we give it what it really needs. Please note this column is now fortnightly. If you would like my free full weekly newsletter register at www.abundant.co.nz or email me at john@abundant.co.nz

John Arts is a qualified nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health. Contact John on 0800 423 559. To read more go to www.sunlive.co.nz