These are justsome of the symptomsa person with arthritis experiences regularly.
For starters, cartilage describesthe spongy tissuethat covers the ends of your bones so they dont rub together.
It also cushions the parts of your joints that meet the bones and acts as a shock absorber.
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The inflammatory key in includesrheumatoid arthritisand psoriatic arthritis.
The non-inflammatory key in is osteoarthritis, the most common key in of joint degeneration.
However, adding extra nutrients to your diet via supplementation may also be beneficial as an adjunct therapy.
Supplements That Help Manage Arthritis
Taking supplements can be hugely beneficial for someone with arthritis.
But ultimately, they are only meant to supplement the treatment plan created by your physician.
In milder cases, they may be used as a first intervention.
Studies to datesuggest that they can help reduce pain and improve function in people with osteoarthritis, says Clark.
But, there are a few side effects to be cognizant of before supplementing with omegas.
Glucosamine Chondroitin Sulfate
Glucosamine is a compound naturally found in the body, particularly in cartilage.
The two together help to supportchondrocytes, or cells that are pivotal to cartilage formation.
Taking these supplements may help slow down the deterioration of cartilage in the joints and alleviate pain.
Routhenstein states that “the recommended dose typically ranges from 500 to 1,500 mg daily.
Curcumin is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent and antioxidant that appears to suppress various moleculesinvolved in cartilage degradation.”
Be sure to look for supplements that contain piperine, the main component in black pepper.
Vitamin D
Maintainingadequate vitamin D levelsis critical for bone health, as it helps bones absorb calcium.
The vitamin also regulates the immune system and may help reduce inflammation in the joints.
This is essential for maintaining healthy cartilage and connective tissue in the joints," she says.
The recommended dose varies for everyone, but typically ranges from 500 to 2,000 milligrams daily, Routhenstein says.
Bottom Line
Arthritis encompasses many different joint-related conditions.
Several nutrients combat inflammation, which can make them an important part of your treatment plan.
But theyre just that, a part.
Be sure to consult a healthcare provider to ensure that supplements are appropriate for your medical concerns.