Living with joint pain due to arthritis is a challenge, and you may have tried prescription drugs to deal with your discomfort.
As we age and depending on our genes, environment, work, and other factors, the cartilage that keeps our bones from rubbing together lessens. When cartilage is gone, we experience pain.
While there is no cure, you can manage arthritis with prescription drugs that will lessen inflammation and pain. But, vitamin supplements are also thought to be helpful with arthritis symptoms.
Which joint pain supplements are right for you? Here are some factors to consider.
Your Nutritional Needs
Take a look at your nutritional needs before choosing supplements. Older people have different nutritional requirements than younger folks, and may not be getting all they need from the food they eat.
Some healthy foods and beverages can prohibit the absorption of nutrients. Certain conditions of the stomach and even hormone levels can do the same.
Smoking, alcohol, pollution, and stress can affect your nutritional levels. Finally, your family history can suggest potential nutritional needs specific to your body.
Keeping a food diary, and getting more info on joint pain from your doctor can help you select the appropriate vitamins for your condition.
Researching Joint Pain Supplements
The Food and Drug Administration here in the U.S. regulates supplements as actual food. This assures you that the supplement is safe, labeled, and well-produced. What is not guaranteed are any claims made on the package, or the effectiveness of the ingredients included.
Because of this, you need to be vigilant when looking at various supplements.
Look for seals of approval from respected organizations like ConsumerLab.com. which show that the supplement has been tested for purity by a third party. Read the labels on products and make sure all ingredients are listed separately. Stay away from those with artificial and extra additives.
When buying supplements online, check out supplement reviews on third-party sites. Talk to your doctor to find out how your current medications might interact with any new supplement you might take.
Supplements to Consider
Some vitamin supplements have shown promise in helping with joint pain. Here are a few to consider:
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a component of cartilage and is one of the most well-studied supplements for osteoarthritis. It may help to slow down the progression of osteoarthritis, and studies suggest that it slows down the narrowing of joint space.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin is also part of normal cartilage. Many clinical studies have found that chondroitin can reduce joint pain and stiffness. it too can slow the narrowing of joint space.
Joint supplements often combine chondroitin with glucosamine into one pill.
Turmeric (Curcumin)
Turmeric is a plant derivative used in cooking. Its active ingredient, curcumin, is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, which makes it a good choice for reducing arthritis symptoms.
Turmeric is a possible alternative to ibuprofen which has been known to harm the stomach.
SAMe
The liver naturally produces SAMe, which helps the body in several ways, As a supplement, SAMe can help with symptoms of joint pain by assisting in the production and repair of cartilage.
Managing Joint Pain
Joint pain supplements are a good partner in the management of arthritis.
Ask your doctor for information on supplements and other joint pain treatments, so you can assemble a pain management plan that works for you.
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