Arthritis is a condition that causes swelling, inflammation, and pain in the joints; it can be truly debilitating. Pain killers work insofar as they mask the pain as long as you keep taking.
With that being said, there are tons of supplements available which may help relieve arthritis pain and reduce inflammation.
For those of you wondering whether or not joint supplements can help with arthritis, the short answer is yes — as long as you use the right ones.
There are various vitamins, minerals, and other naturally occurring substances which can help to relieve arthritis symptoms. So, what are the best supplements for arthritis pain and inflammation?
A Word on Anti-Inflammatories
People who suffer from arthritis are usually prescribed some sort of anti-inflammatory drug that can reduce swelling and inflammation, and therefore reduce pain. This can take the form of Naproxen, Ibuprofen, Advil, and many others too.
However, maybe you don’t want to take prescription or over the counter drugs, and you would like to try a more natural way.
Therefore, you might be looking to take some supplements to help get rid of arthritis pain.
Yes, supplements can help in this regard, but one of the most important things to keep in mind is that the supplements should contain ingredients with anti-inflammatory properties, as well as antioxidants too.
Supplements for Arthritis
Let’s quickly take a look at some of the best supplements out there which can help to relieve your arthritis symptoms.
Glucosamine
One of the most important substances that is present in both your bones and joints which helps maintain healthy cartilage in between the joints, is glucosamine.
Arthritis is often associated with a loss or degradation of the cartilage in between the joints and bones, which then leads to inflammation, swelling, and pain.
Unfortunately, as we age, the natural levels of glucosamine in our bodies decreases.
Therefore, we have to get it from somewhere, or else our joints are going to suffer.
It is also shown that glucosamine may have anti-inflammatory effects, so not only can it help to maintain and rebuild cartilage, but it can also directly relieve inflammation, and therefore pain as well.
Turmeric and Curcumin
Curcumin is the active compound contained in the popular spice known as turmeric.
Turmeric is often used as a natural remedy for joint pain, as it has great anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, both which can help reduce and control arthritis symptoms.
Turmeric can be taken as a supplement, it can be added to food, or you can make tea with it too. Just be aware that too much turmeric can cause upset stomachs and digestive issues.
Collagen
Collagen is a very important type of protein, and it’s the protein that takes up the most space in both your bones and joints.
Without enough collagen, your joints and bones won’t be able to maintain themselves, as it plays an essential role in bone formation, bone density, and bone metabolism.
Therefore, you may want to look into taking some sort of collagen supplement.
Vitamin C
Another vitamin supplement you may want to consider taking is vitamin C. Vitamin C has been shown to prevent inflammation from occurring, and inflammation is of course a major symptom of arthritis.
Not only does vitamin C help prevent and control inflammation, but it also helps to the body to synthesize that collagen which we talked about above. If your body can’t synthesize collagen properly, your joints are going to suffer.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Yet another great supplement for joint and bone health alike is an omega 3 fatty acid supplement.
These acids are very important for the human body in general, but when it comes to arthritis, the role it plays is that it helps the body naturally produce chemicals and compounds which are anti-inflammatory in nature.
It has been shown to help decrease the stiffness which is often associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
Ginger
Ginger tastes great, which is why it is used to cook great dishes in so many cultures, but tasting great is not all that ginger does, because ginger contains tons of antioxidants and anti-inflammatories.
This is why it is often used in traditional medicines, and why it can be found in supplement form too.
Now, the research when it comes to ginger and arthritis is limited, but it is proven that ginger is an anti-inflammatory, and in turn, anti-inflammatories help to relieve arthritis pain.
Other Supplements for Arthritis Pain
- Bromelain
- Devil’s Claw
- MSM
- Stinging Nettle
- Calcium
- Vitamin D3
- Vitamin K
Conclusion
The main takeaway is that supplements which are anti-inflammatory in nature can indeed help control and reduce the painful symptoms associated with arthritis.