Many people deal with chronic joint pains in their knees, elbows, shoulders, hands, etc. It is said that one in four people have joint pain. It is mostly caused by osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. However, there's no permanent cure for these pains except to relieve the symptoms and the inflammation. Hence, many people turn to supplements (and vitamins) as alternative remedies for relief, but which ones actually work? Below is a list of some of the best ones you can take.
Turmeric
We are already quite familiar with the spice's power of relieving body pain. Hence, it's a part of our daily cuisine. A chemical in turmeric called curcumin blocks certain proteins that can cause inflammation. However, how much is needed to relieve joint pain? No less than 500 mg, two to four times a day (one to two teaspoons) is needed to be consumed for relief from inflammation and pain in the joints.
Fish oil
It contains Omega 3 fatty acids that block proteins and fatty acids that can turn on inflammation. Our body turns them into resolvins, anti-inflammatory chemicals that may help alleviate joint stiffness and pain. Consuming fish on a daily basis seems to do the deed. However, in supplement form, 300-1000 mg per day can be taken.
Glucosamine & Chondroitin
This is an amino sugar that is naturally present in the cartilage of our joints. Having it as a supplement might prevent cartilage loss. It will help prevent inflammation, stiffness and pain. The doctor may recommend it along with Chondroitin, a building block of cartilage that helps prevent its breakdown from osteoarthritis. Chondroitin also reduces joint pain and stiffness. It has the ability to retain water that helps in the smooth functioning of tissues.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
This sulfuric compound is naturally present in animals, humans, fruits and vegetables. Sulfur helps our body make connective tissue. 1000-6000 mg per day is the preferred dosage for getting relief from joint pain and inflammation.
Vitamin D
Low levels of this essential nutrient may lead to joint pains. Taken as a supplement, it can relieve rheumatoid arthritis.
SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine)
This chemical, produced by the liver from an amino acid called methionine, is considered as good as anti-inflammatory medicines. It may also help repair damage in the cartilage. 200-400 mg supplement taken thrice a day helps joint pains. It also helps with depression symptoms.
Boswellia
It is a plant extract, also known as Indian frankincense, can improve pain symptoms as it has anti-inflammatory properties. It can also slow down the loss of cartilage. 100-330 mg per day can be taken.
Avocado Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU)
Avocado-soybean unsaponifiables (ASUs) refer to an extract from avocado and soybean that may help prevent the breakdown of cartilage and also repair it. Our joints are lined with special cells called synovial cells. ASU helps protect them so they can promote the growth of healthy connective tissue. 300mg per day is the preferred dosage.
Devil’s Claw
Also called harpagophytum, it contains a chemical called harpogoside that has anti-inflammatory effects. The usual dosage is 600-800 mg three times a day.