Vitamins for Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic, painful, and potentially crippling inflammatory disease that begins in the sacroiliac joints and gradually progresses to the spine.

The Facts

AS is more often diagnosed in men, but may be misdiagnosed in women, making the disease equally prevalent in both sexes. Causes include familial history, immunologic activity and the presence of histocompatibility antigen HLA-B27.

Signs and Symptoms

The first sign is intermittent lower back pain. Other symptoms include stiffness, chest pain, hip deformity, stooping, limited range of motion, fatigue, anorexia, fever and aortic regurgitation.

Vitamin Therapy

According to Germany's Kerckhoff Clinic and Foundation, high disease activity in AS patients is associated with low levels of vitamin D, leading to a negative calcium balance and inhibiting bone formation. Vitamin C and E are antioxidants that may prevent joint inflammation. Although evidence is mixed, beta-carotene may act similarly to vitamins C and E.

Vitamin Dosages

Dr. Kenneth G. Saag recommends up to 200 international units (IU) of vitamin D per day. Dr. Pamela Wartian Smith suggests 600 mg of vitamin C through food rather than supplements; 400 IU of vitamin E; and 25,000 IU of beta-carotene daily.

Warning

Deterioration of bone and cartilage can lead to fusion of the spine; hip replacement or spinal surgery may be indicated.

References

• Professional Guide to Diseases: Springhouse, ed; 2005
• Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine; Michael Murray, ND; 1998
• National Center for Biotechnology Information