Painful joints can be a result of a variety of things including arthritis, injuries, aging, and overuse. One of the major factors in joint pain is inflammation. Consequently, anti-inflammatory diets such as Paleo, Keto, and Mediterranean are very beneficial to both prevention and managing joint pain.
In addition to diet and a healthy lifestyle, natural supplements can also help to support bone and joint health, manage pain, as well as, reduce inflammation.
When I recommend patients supplements for joint health or pain, I consider two categories:
- long term and preventative joint health, and
- short term pain relief or inflammation reducers.
For long term and preventative joint health, I recommend Collagen, Fish Oil, and Turmeric/Curcumin because these supplements are beneficial to so many body systems and provide the most “bang for the buck.” For short-term pain and inflammation, I recommend Boswelllia, time-release magnesium, and high dose Curcumin.
Collagen
Collagen is great for the health of cartilage, ligaments, and tendons, as it provides essential proteins which are the building blocks of these tissues. Additionally, collagen nourishes the whole body because these important building blocks are beneficial for
hair, skin, nails, colon health, hormone synthesis, and virtually all bodily systems that depend on protein to function.
Fish Oil
Fish oil has DHA/EPA that can help metabolic processes that reduce inflammation. In addition, DHA/EPA contain fatty acids, Omega-3, that are beneficial for hormone synthesis and all cells, as each cell is composed of fatty acids. Increasing omega-3 intake ensures that your cells are using better fatty acids.
Fish oils also play an important role in maintaining joint health as they provide essential joint lubrication, helping to prevent injury and pain by restoring joint tissue. WIld caught, cold water fish are an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, but supplementing with pills is a great alternative. Just be sure your fish oil supplement is a high quality, mercury free source.
Turmeric/Curcumin
Curcumin is naturally derived from the spice Tumeric, a member of the ginger family. Curcumin is known for its anti-inflammatory effects, and it is also a powerful antioxidant. Oxidative stress caused by an overabundance of free-radicals can be linked to painful types of arthritis caused by inflammation. Curcumin’s combination of anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidant effects makes it an optimal choice for both joint pain prevention and management.
Long term inflammation has serious negative effects on many bodily systems, so curcumin supplementation provides more than just benefits to joint health. Finally, there is a small, but significant amount of research that indicates Curcumin works as well as NSAIDs in relieving osteoarthritic pain without the harmful side effects or stomach upset.
Boswellia
Extracts of Boswellia serrata have been used as an herbal remedy for centuries to treat various chronic inflammatory diseases. Boswellic is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. When taken in adequate amounts, Boswellia can help reduce inflammation, and therefore, discomfort.
Magnesium
When taken in a high enough dose, magnesium can aid in relaxing muscles which is the source of pain for many patients. Usually, it will need to be specially time-release formulated, as the body can only absorb a small amount at a time. Adequate levels of magnesium are essential to metabolism and absorption of both D3 and calcium. Magnesium is another essential micronutrient involved in over 400 metabolic processes, and most people do not get enough in daily through dietary intake.
Each individual’s immune system is different, so what works for one may not work for another. It’s important to consult your doctor or Dr. Slater for the most individualized approach to supplementation.
