The 6 Top Supplements for Joint Pain: What They Do and How They Work
7 minute read
Arthritis affects millions in America and the chronic joint pain and inflammation can interfere with daily activities as well as quality of life. There are many different forms of arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Despite the differences in potential causes or affected areas, the common factor in all forms of arthritis is inflammation. With supplemental treatment of this inflammation, you can alleviate pain and get back to moving the way you want.
Typically NSAIDs and other pain-relieving medications are taken for arthritis and joint pain, but these are not always effective. Over time, more are required to get the same relief and eventually too much of these medications can cause unpleasant side effects. Because of this people turn to more natural forms of treatment and have found several supplements that can relieve pain and boost overall joint health.
The top recommended supplements for improving joint health and delivering relief from arthritis are discussed below. Here is what you should know.
1. HLA
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in the synovial fluid that surrounds your joints. Whether due to the natural aging process, athletic performance, or the onset of arthritis, this fluid can be reduced over time, causing aching, stiff joints. Replenishing this fluid via HLA can help relieve pain.
2. Collagen
Since collagen is a natural component of the cartilage acting a shock absorber in your joints, replenishing the collagen in your body can help restore the functional ease of your joints while also reducing pain. In particular type 2 undenatured collagen is an important specification to look for when taking a collagen supplement.
3. Boswellia Serrata
You may be more familiar with the name frankincense, but boswellia serrata is the scientific term for this medicinal herb. Like turmeric, this herb has been used for centuries in traditional medicine practices to treat inflammatory conditions.
It is the boswellic acid in particular that possesses these beneficial properties and as part of a regular treatment plan can bring relief to arthritis sufferers.
4. Avocado-Soybean Unsaponifiables
ASUs, as they are more commonly called, are an extract from avocado and soybean oils. ASUs have been shown to improve joint pain and offer relief by way of repairing damaged cartilage.
With regular use, these extracts can prevent cartilage from breaking down, which would prevent much of the immobility associated with arthritis.
5. Krill Oil
Most people consider taking krill oil supplements to boost brain and heart health, but they benefit your joints too. It is the essential omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil that deliver the benefits to your heart, your head and your joints.
The anti-inflammatory properties of these omega-3s protect your joints and allow time for healing. In addition to this fatty acids are beneficial for the repair of cells and allowing for more fluid movement of your joints. It’s why there are now some joint health supplements made with krill oil.
6. Devil’s Claw
While this may not be as well-known as the other supplement, it is a powerful resource to have on hand if you have arthritis. The chemical harpagocide in devil’s claw is a potent anti-inflammatory compound, and it has been shown to reduce joint pain as effectively as leading osteoarthritis medications.
When it comes to choosing a supplement, be sure to consult with your doctor first. While they are natural and less likely to have side effects as compared to medications, there is still always a chance they could react to something you are already taking.
It is also important to always choose a high-quality supplement that has been clinically tested and proven to ensure you get safe and optimal results. The best joint health supplements will use a proven combination of supplements from those listed here, which contains both Boswellia serrata, HLA, and collagen.
Other Ways to Improve Joint Health
When combined with supplemental support, these options below can imprint joint health and help reduce the pains of arthritis.
Losing Weight
Carrying around extra weight puts increased pressure on your joints. The more strain they are under, the more susceptible your joints will be too inflammation and pain. By losing weight, you can protect your joints from unnecessary stress. It is also easier to regain mobility and flexibility when there is less weight for your joints to support.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet
There are certain foods you can eat that help to reduce inflammation. There are also foods that trigger inflammation that will make your arthritis worse.
Gluten, caffeine, and alcohol are all known to trigger inflammation and sometimes dairy can too if you are lactose intolerant. The best foods to add to your diet that help fight inflammation include broccoli, blueberries, ginger, pineapple, whole grains, nuts, and even dark chocolate.
Reduce Stress
Stress produces cortisol, which in turn triggers inflammatory chemicals in the body. While it can be hard to avoid stress sometimes, what matters is having a way to deal with it so it cannot control you.
Relaxation helps to reduce systemic inflammation. Try yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises throughout the day to bring calm to your mind and your joints.
Gentle Exercise
Moving may not seem like a fun idea when your joints are swollen and you are in pain. Gentle exercise is actually one of the best things for joint health and fighting arthritis. Light cardio, gentle weight training, and stretching are all beneficial to joint health as they promote strength.
| Related: How to Stop Arthritis From Taking Away Your Favorite Activities |
By reducing joint and muscle weakness, you can reduce inflammation and tenderness and increase mobility. The best options for exercise are cycling, walking, swimming, yoga, Tai Chi, and aquatic aerobics. Working out in water is best for those with severe arthritis pains because the water supports your weight so you can move more easily.
The Bottom Line
No matter which form of arthritis you have, when you reduce inflammation, you can increase flexibility, strength, and mobility of your joints.
Some dietary changes and some gentle exercises can help to alleviate pain and improve strength, but ultimately these essential joint supplements will be the best tool to have at your disposal. Bring relief naturally and avoid potential risks and side effects and start taking natural supplements for your joint health today.
