Statistics show that nearly 300,000 American children have some form of arthritis. The most prevalent form of arthritis in children is Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA), which affects nearly 50,000 children in the United States.

The exact cause of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis remains a mystery. Many researchers believe it is an autoimmune disease -- a disease that causes the immune system to become hyperactive and start attacking normal tissue. When this occurs, the body overproduces cytokines, which leads to inflammation within the body. Cytokines are chemical signals used to allow one cell to communicate to another. They play an important role in immune system responses.

Researchers believe the key to controlling, or slowing down the degeneration of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis is to learn how to control cytokine production. Those involved in holistic healthcare practices believe the key to controlling cytokine production is connected to the diet.

Fruits that are high in vitamin C provide the most benefit for children with arthritis. Colorful fruits and vegetables contain phytochemicals, which are helpful in fighting inflammation. A few of these inflammation-fighting foods include: blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, kiwi fruit, mango, cantaloupe melon and apples.

Vegetables that are high in vitamin A (beta-carotene) and vitamin C are also helpful in fighting inflammation. These include: broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, collard greens, kale, spinach, squash, and sweet potatoes.

It is also recommended to consume foods or dietary supplements rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. These include certain types of fish including: herring, mackerel, salmon, sardines, and trout. It is recommended to limit fish consumption to 3-ounce portions, consumed twice a week, for children under age 16. Whenever possible, seek out mercury-free fish to avoid potential health problems associated with mercury.

Typically, Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis appears between the ages of 6 months and 16 years. More often than not, the first signs of this disease appear as joint swelling and reddened or warm joints. There are three major types of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis:

1. Polyarticular arthritis -- Swelling or pain in 5 or more joints (hips, knees, ankles, feet and neck); low-grade fever; bumps or nodules on the body.
2. Pauciarticular arthritis -- Swelling or pain in 4 or fewer joints; inflammation of the iris.
3. Systemic arthritis -- Affects the entire body; may include high fevers; sudden onset then sudden disappearance of rash; enlarged spleen and lymph nodes; joint pain, swelling and stiffness.

To effectively manage and minimize the effects of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, an early and accurate diagnosis is essential. If your child is diagnosed with JRA, it's important for you to educate yourself about the various symptoms and characteristics so you can help your child maintain an active and productive lifestyle.
If any of the above symptoms arise, contact your healthcare provider and express your concerns. To diagnose Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, your doctor will need to take a detailed medical history and conduct a thorough physical examination, along with diagnostic blood tests.