Joint Supplements
Navigating the world of joint supplements can be overwhelming and confusing. At BIM we are dedicated to your overall health and consider joint supplements another tool may contribute to your wellbeing.
Joint supplements include extracts from natural sources, vitamins, minerals and other substances. Adding a joint supplement may help promote overall joint health and alleviate pain and inflammation symptoms associated with multiple diagnosis.
Here is a quick guide of research backed joint supplements and their benefits. As always, contact your physician before starting any new medications or supplements.
Curcumin and Boswellia - Curcumin (an extract of turmeric) and boswellia (a natural extract from the bark of the boswellia tree) are naturally occurring extracts. Research suggests that curcumin and boswellia extracts may help reduce osteoarthritis pain in the short term and taking boswellia and curcumin together may enhance the effects of curcumin itself.
Tamarind seed - Tamarind seeds contain several different nutrients. They have been used widely in Ayurvedic (Indian) and African medicines for different conditions. Research studies reveal that patients who have taken Tamarind Seeds have had decreased knee pain and improved function.
Green Tea - Green tea contains nutrients, such as catechins (an antioxidant), and has other anti-inflammatory properties. Catechins decrease inflammation and prevent degeneration of collagen and cartilage which may benefit joint health. Due to both the antioxidant and antiinflammatory effects, this can lead to a decrease in pain and improve osteoarthritis function.
Magnesium - Magnesium is significant in maintaining bone strength, joint cartilage, and nerve and muscle function. It has also been shown to reduce pain associated with headaches, fibromyalgia and after surgery.
Collagen - Collagen is found throughout the body and contributes to the health tissues including tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Research has also shown a decrease in joint pain and stiffness.
Omega-3 and Fish Oil - Omega-3 may benefit individuals with rheumatoid arthritis but redusing stiffness and the number of swollen and tender joints.
SAMe - SAMe is a compound that naturally exists in the body which contributes to the production of cartilage. By taking SAMe, it may have similar effects of NSAIDS in helping to decrease pain from osteoarthritis.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) - MSM is a naturally occurring compound which as a supplement may protect joint cartilage, improve range of motion, and reduce joint inflammation.
Glucosamine and chondroitin - Glucosamine and chondroitin are structural components of cartilage that the body produces. Studies have shown that they are effective in relieving pain and swelling in the knee due to osteoarthritis, as well as joint space narrowing.
Vitamin D - Maintaining a healthy Vitamin D level can help prevent bone and joint conditions which may cause pain.
Speaking with your primary health care professional will help you to determine what supplements may be beneficial for your diagnoses. They will be able to recommend the appropriate dosages and possible interactions or side effects you may experience.
The FDA does regulate supplements within the United States and you can refer to their database to determine the safety of certain supplements as well as the American College of Rheumatology and Arthritis Foundation.