7 of the best supplements for the joints
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When we’re relatively young, the chances are that we will not have to deal with joint pain and discomfort, and if we do, our bodies will soon sort themselves out with minimal fuss. As old father time sneaks his way up on us however, we begin to discover more niggling aches and pains, that become more stubborn and harder to shift. Before too long, even getting out of a chair can be a struggle, and we find ourselves relying on pain killing drugs and medications that only mask the pain, and provide some pretty harsh side effects themselves. Joint pain can affect anybody at any time, yet generally as we grow older, the pain becomes more severe and more frequent. The good news however, is that we do not need to live our lives in constant pain and discomfort, as there are a series of things we can do to take the strain off of our joints, and to help our bodies heal themselves. One such thing is making use of specially formulated health supplements which have been proven to provide substantial benefits for the joints. Here’s a more detailed look at some of the most beneficial supplements for the joints, and the surrounding areas.
Glucosamine
First up, you cannot have an article looking at supplements for the joints, without talking about glucosamine. Glucosamine is most commonly associated with being able to heal joint pain and discomfort, and there are hundreds of thousands of people all over the globe, that absolutely swear by the stuff. Glucosamine is a form of fatty acid which makes up joint cartilage and other joint components. This fatty acid has been found to help rebuild bone tissue and it prevents general wear and tear on the cartilage. Glucosamine also provides anti-inflammatory benefits, helping to ease inflammation in and around the joints and the cartilage. If your joints, particularly your knees, are giving you trouble, glucosamine is one of the first supplements you should consider.
Omega 3 fatty acids
Omega 3 fatty acid supplements are hugely, hugely important for general health and well-being, as they benefit the body in countless ways. Not only do they strengthen the brain and boost brain power and cognitive function, they also provide substantial cardiovascular benefits as well. On top of that however, omega 3 fatty acids are also very useful for people dealing with pain and discomfort in the joints. In the joints, enzymes known as collagenases can build up and can damage the joints and cartilage, causing pain and discomfort. Omega 3 fatty acids however, actually prevent these harmful enzymes from building up. They too provide anti-inflammtory benefits, helping to reduce inflammation in the joints, plus they lubricate the joints and therefore assist with mobility and flexibility.
MSM
MSM, or Methysulfonylmethane, is a type of supplement responsible for generating the tissues and materials necessary for the synthesis of cartilage within the body. This structural protein is located within most forms of organic matter, it is non-toxic, and it is ideal for people looking to protect their joints before pain and discomfort levels become unbearable. MSM has been found to increase collagen production, which is used to bind bones together and make them stronger. For people dealing with osteoporosis and/or arthritis, MSM is a very, very beneficial supplement.
Calcium
Calcium is a mineral that is most commonly associated with its ability to strengthen the teeth and bones. Calcium is found in a great deal of dairy produce, as well as green leafy vegetables such as Kale. What’s more, it is also available in supplement form. Calcium strengthens the bones and joints, and subsequently protects them against general wear and tear. The mineral also has pain relieving properties as it eases inflammation, helping to take down swelling on and around the joints.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D does not actually provide any direct benefits for the joints, but don’t worry, we haven’t slipped up here, it is being included for a very good reason. We’ve just looked at calcium and how beneficial calcium is for the bones and joints, but there is one problem with calcium when taken alone – it cannot be absorbed directly by the bones. Yes, the body struggles to absorb calcium directly into the bones by itself, meaning that a lot of the time, calcium actually goes to waste. In order for calcium to be absorbed by the bones, it needs vitamin D to be present, which is why calcium should always be consumed in conjunction with vitamin D. Just 15 minutes of sunlight can stimulate vitamin D production in the body, or alternatively, you can go with vitamin D supplements just to be sure.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is arguably the most beneficial vitamin in regards to immunity, but it too also has very potent benefits for the joints. You see, vitamin C functions as a powerful antioxidant, which means that it prevents oxidation in the body. This provides many benefits for the body, including the fact that it can prevent damage to the joints and ligaments, and other connective tissues. Vitamin C is also responsible for the production of collagen, which also helps to strengthen bones and joints.
Chondroitin Sulfate
Last on our list we have Chondroitin Sulfate. This supplement is best used in conjunction with glucosamine, as together, they assist with the production of cartilage. This in turn makes the joints a great deal stronger, plus the two supplements work together to ease pain and discomfort, which in turn will improve mobility levels.
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