Studies demonstrate that anti-inflammatory supplements can help relieve arthritis and joint pain.
Safety
Before adding any new supplements, make sure to talk with your doctor so you understand any potential side effects and interactions with medications. For example, ginger might thin the blood and glucosamine and chondroitin may interact with diuretics and blood thinners.
There is no regulatory agency to control the content and quality of supplements, even though there are studies supporting their benefits. The National Institutes of Health’s Medline Plus website has information about many different supplements. The Arthritis Foundation also has a supplement and herb guide.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine helps to keep joint cartilage healthy and can help to rebuild it. Some studies suggest that it can thwart the development of OA. The levels of glucosamine in the body drop as people get older. Taking a supplement consistently can help over time.
SAM-e
SAM-e acts as a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory. It can also stimulate cartilage growth and decrease pain perception. SAM-e delivers sulfur to cartilage which helps build stronger joints. “Studies have shown that it relieves OA symptoms as effectively as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs),” explains the Arthritis Foundation, “with fewer side effects and more prolonged benefit.”
Turmeric
Turmeric contains the chemical curcumin which can block inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, thereby lessening pain and swelling. It has been used to help relieve pain from rheumatoid arthritis by doctors for centuries.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin is a substance found in hot peppers. It lowers pain levels by reducing substance P, a transmitter of pain. You can use it as a topical cream, gel, or patch. In just 3 weeks, capsaicin has been found to cut joint pain in half, noted by researchers.
Fatty Acids
The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils can help the body produce chemicals to help control inflammation. It prevents certain kinds of enzymes from damaging joints. Fish oil can also help with stiffness from rheumatoid arthritis. The body converts the ingredients into anti-inflammatory chemicals called resolvins.
Omega-3s come from fish, avocados, nuts, and seeds. The body also converts the omega-6 fatty acids in Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA) to anti-inflammatory chemicals.
Calcium and Vitamin D
Calcium plays a vital role in healthy bones and it can also help reduce inflammation and pain. You can get calcium as a supplement or find it naturally in dark leafy greens, milk, yogurt, and broccoli.
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and also promotes overall good joint health.
Avocado-Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU)
Avocado-Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU) can block the chemicals that cause inflammation. It can also prevent the deterioration of the cells that line the joints. ASUs may also help regenerate normal connective tissue.
Osteoarthritis Recovery
Are you suffering from osteoarthritis? Sometimes supplements aren’t enough for pain relief. If you want more information about non-surgical solutions to help reduce knee and joint pain, our board-certified physicians here at Flexogenix are dedicated to researching and developing the latest non-surgical techniques for treating joint pain and we’re here to help. Contact us today!
