The common term that refers to the swelling of joints is osteoarthritis. It is a degenerative joint issue and a common form of arthritis. This issue refers to cartilage degradation in joints. It is a common problem in the hips, knees, and spine. Not only this, but it also damages to the finger, thumb, and big toe joints.
Many supplements are on the way to treat osteoarthritis problems. These include synthetic as well as natural supplements. Not all supplements are practical; some are useful to relieve pain. At the same time, some could be more effective. So, you must consult your doctor before using these supplements.
What Supplements Treat Osteoarthritis?
Common therapies are not enough to stop the progression of osteoarthritis. However, two main natural supplements that are good for osteoarthritis issues are Glucosamine and chondroitin. These are useful to relieve pain or prevent the degradation of cartilage. Let’s explore some other vital supplements useful for osteoarthritis:
1. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is an essential supplement that you must add to your diet. It is a fat-soluble secosteroid that helps increase some elements’ intestinal absorption. These elements may be calcium, magnesium, phosphate, and others. The common form of vitamin D used in compounds is D3 and D2.
Though vitamin D is an excellent source of strengthening bones, it is not too effective in relieving OA pain. Some studies showed that vitamin D help to treat joint pain in those who have a deficiency of this vitamin.
2. Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
It is another essential compound present in green fruits and vegetables. MSM is helpful in the maintenance and repair of connective tissues. The plus point of this compound is that it is anti-inflammatory. Some searches showed that this supplement helps relieve pain and the functioning of the knee.
While some searches revealed that it is not effective to treat OA, according to some studies, the useful range of this supplement is 1.5 g to 6 g daily. Be careful to use it because sometimes it can cause allergies.
3. Pycnogenol
A fantastic supplement that is the treatment of many issues. It is useful to treat circulation issues, allergies, asthma, ear problem, high BP, pain, diabetes, and osteoarthritis. Not only this, but it is also useful for females who have issues with a painful menstrual cycle, menopausal symptoms, and endometriosis.
It is famous because of its anti-inflammatory properties. There is limited evidence showing its use for osteoarthritis for some months. Some studies proved that when a patient takes 50 mg of these supplements 2-3 times a day for three months.
Then it is useful to reduce the know OA pain. Not only positive effects, but these supplements also have side effects. These may be stomach issues and autoimmune diseases. So, consult your doctor before using this supplement.
4. Willow bark
Willow bark is another fantastic supplement that comes from the Salix tree. It is a good source of salicylic acid and aspirin. People have used it for many years for the treatment of pain and swelling. However, there are many studies related to the positive effects of willow bark.
But some studies showed its positive impact on OA pain, while some didn’t show. The best thing is that this supplement has few side effects. It causes allergies in those who are sensitive to aspirin.
It has been used for many centuries in China and Europe. Till now, it has been used for many issues, such as pain, headaches, osteoarthritis, and swelling issues.
5. Undenatured type II collagen (UC-II)
Collagen is the main structural protein present in tendons, bones, and skin. Collagen type II is present in cartilage, which helps line the joints. The chicken breastbone is the source of the UC-II. According to a study, it is proved that UC-II helps reduce pain and stiffness. It is also helpful to improve the functioning of the knee. While it is slightly good as compared to Glucosamine and chondroitin.
In contrast, some studies showed its positive effects on the modulation of joint discomfort. Indeed, this supplement is an excellent fit to treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid. It is good to take 10 mg of this supplement to improve your knee pain. Simply put, this supplement reduces the overall pain and the pain during limb manipulation.
6. Avocado/Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU)
The source of these supplements is avocado and soybean oil. These supplements are very difficult to pronounce but have many better effects. These help the blockage of inflammatory substances that cause cartilage breakdown. Some results showed that this supplement helps reduce pain and stiffness. Talking about its function in OA, it can reduce knee pain. At the same time, some people face allergic reactions because of this supplement.
ASU is a vegetable extract that contains 1/3 avocado oil and 2/3 soybean oil. It causes the blockage of anti-inflammatory substances. Not only this, but it also prevents the cells from degradation, which line the joints.
7. Curcumin
Curcumin is an active compound that is the source of turmeric. The yellow color, anti-inflammatory, and rheumatic features make it famous. The study showed that Curcumin is easy to absorb in the body. So, it is good for pain reduction in the knee. However, there are only a few pieces of evidence showing its positive effects on treating OA. It has a strong interaction with warfarin, a blood thinner.
Though the supplement is antioxidant, so it has many anti-inflammatory advantages. The source of this supplement is turmeric. It is a spice that gives color and taste to sweet, spicy dishes and teas.
Due to its effective and anti-inflammatory nature, the Chinese used it in many medicines. Some searches showed that capsules of Curcumin have positive effects on knee OA. People taking a Curcumin capsule of 500 milligrams three times a day has positive effects on knee pain. While people are taking diclofenac tablets 50 milligrams twice a day also has positive results.
People of both groups said that their pain has improved by using these supplements. But it is also true that Curcumin had more negative impacts as compared to diclofenac.
8. Boswellia serrate
It is a plant extract that is present in many medicines. So, people have been using it for centuries to treat inflammation issues. Not only this, but this extract is also helpful in reducing pain and disability in knee osteoarthritis. Many pieces of evidence are there for its positive effects in reducing knee pain. But unfortunately, this evidence is weak. However, the supplement has some positive results but also has drawbacks. These may be nausea, headache, fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weakness.
Many people use it to treat osteoarthritis. It is also helpful for many other purposes, such as asthma, diabetes, and stroke. But these uses are not supported by much evidence. People think that this supplement is also suitable for COVID-19, but it has weak evidence. Besides, it is an effective painkiller and protects cartilage from degradation. Some searches found it helpful in treating cancer, such as breast cancer.
9. S-Adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe)
It is a natural substance that a body produces. Several studies showed its positive effects on OA, but all these are inconsistent. At the same time, some searches found it effective in improving joint pain and function. On the other hand, some searches did not find any positive results. However, it is a safe supplement to use. But it also has some issues for people with bipolar disorder. It also interacts with drugs such as antidepressants.
The best thing is that this supplement help in the production and regulation of hormones. Not only this, but it is also helpful to maintain plasma membranes.
10. Chondroitin
It is another fantastic supplement that can reduce osteoarthritis issues. It is also helpful to decrease arthritic pain and swelling. The plus point of this fantastic supplement is that it is beneficial to maintain healthy cartilage.
Some studies showed that this supplement help to improve joint function. A study proved that when you take this supplement with glucosamine sulfate. Then it is more beneficial for your health.
11. Glucosamine
Though it is the most famous supplement for OA, there is no more evidence proofing that it is best for knee, hip, and joint pain. Besides, it has strong interaction with blood thinner substances such as warfarin and Glucosamine. This way, the supplement is also suitable for controlling blood sugar.
Several pieces of evidence are present against this supplement for knee OA. Similarly, several proofs are present against Glucosamine for hand OA. Now, there is much evidence for chondroitin for hand OA. Commonly, people use Glucosamine and chondroitin for knee OA.
Many studies have been made on the effects of Glucosamine and chondroitin. But all these did not show any consistent results. It means some people agree with the benefits of these supplements. At the same time, some have differing views on the help of this supplement. In simple words, both these supplements are safe and suitable for people.
12. Fish Oil
Another helpful supplement that you must add to your diet is fish oil. It is the source of omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA. These all are important to reduce swelling in the body. Besides, it is the best supplement for heart and brain protection. It is the reason people use it very much in their diet. At the same time, no strict evidence showed its positive effects on OA symptoms. The American College of Rheumatology doesn’t suggest supplementing hand, knee, and hip OA.
Some people believe they feel reduced pain after taking fish oil in their diet. People who report its positive effects take less dose than high dose. Commonly, people see improved pain after two years. So, there is no evidence that people see improvement after one year.
Some scientist comment on this evidence. They said using more than three grams of fish oil may harm health. These negative effects may be enhanced mercury absorption, bruising, and bleeding. Searchers don’t show strong evidence for using fish oil for OA.
Final Verdict:
We have discussed the 12 best supplements you must add to your diet. Add if you are facing the issue of osteoarthritis. Obviously, your doctor will recommend you use non-drug therapies. These include several healthy supplements. Remember that all supplements are not effective at all. Before use, you must understand how to safely use these supplements.
It is good to consider the following things before using supplements:
- Ask your doctor if these supplements are safe
- Only buy the supplement from the reliable source
- Follow all the guidelines given to you
The following are the non0drug therapies:
- Use the healthful, balanced, and nutritious diet
- Try to maintain the body weight
Till now, there has been no specific treatment for osteoarthritis. But if you use these supplements according to the doctor’s recommendations, change your lifestyle. Then these can help you in the management of arthritis.
FAQs:
What vitamins should I take if I have osteoarthritis?
Researchers have found many useful supplements to relieve pain and arthritis symptoms. The most common and natural supplements that are good for treating arthritis are:
- Chondroitin
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Curcumin
- Glucosamine
What three vitamins are good for osteoarthritis?
Not only are other supplements beneficial for osteoarthritis. Some antioxidants and vitamins are also good to have a better effect on arthritis. Though if you eat a nutritious diet having these nutrients. Then it is very healthy for you.
What is a useful supplement to rebuild cartilage? REPEATED ANSWER
Not only are other supplements beneficial for osteoarthritis. Some antioxidants and vitamins are also good to have a better effect on arthritis. Though if you eat a nutritious diet having these nutrients. Then it is very healthy for you.
How do you stop osteoarthritis from progressing?
The following are some important ways that stop the progression of osteoarthritis:
- Regular exercise
- Nutritious diet
- Controlling the blood sugar
- Consult the doctor for treatment
- Protect your joints
- Provide support to joints
- Incorporation of healthy nutrients in the diet
Does any supplement help osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a common issue in many people. So, it is proven that people found Glucosamine and chondroitin as pain relievers. Not only this, but these supplements also increase the body’s functioning. But till now, no convincing evidence has been found that these supplements help osteoarthritis.