Question: Can you recommend any supplements that could help with polymyalgia? The joint pain, fatigue, and overall stiffness is overwhelming.

Dr. Blaylock's Answer:

This is often a self-limiting condition, that is, it can disappear within one to four years. There is evidence that it is an inflammatory disorder and can evolve into some inflammatory arterial diseases, such as temporal arteritis or giant cell arteritis. Because of its inflammatory link, a curcumin/quercetin mix would be very beneficial. This mix is made by adding 500 mg of curcumin and 500 mg of quercetin to one tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil and mixing well. This dramatically improves absorption. Curcumin and quercetin are anti-inflammatories equal in strength to steroids without the complications. The mix should be taken three times a day with meals. Vitamin C (buffered) 1,000 mg, taken between meals three times a day, reduces inflammation and strengthens tissues.

Vitamin E as a natural form (Unique-E) 400 IU a day also reduces inflammation. Omega-3 oils, such as the Carlson Norwegian Fish Oil (www.vitacost. com) in a dose of one teaspoon a day will also reduce the inflammation. I suspect that the disorder is linked to low vitamin D3 levels and taking vitamin D3 in a dose of 2,000 IU to 5,000 IU a day may help. Vitamin D3 plays a major role in preventing immune overactivity and inflammation.

There is some link to one’s intake of glutamate as a food additive. Avoid all NutraSweet (aspartame), MSG, soy products, hydrolyzed proteins, caseinates, vegetable proteins, autolyzed yeast, and carrageenan. You diet is also critical, so see my previous newsletter on diet.