Arthritis is a common chronic condition that can develop with age. It is caused by inflammation of the joints and can make simple tasks more difficult. Larger motions, like walking or lifting objects, and fine motor skills, like typing and writing, can be challenging for someone with arthritis. While there is no definitive cure for arthritis, the symptoms are treatable to make life more comfortable.
As an inflammation disorder at its core, standard anti-inflammatory drugs are often prescribed. But many arthritis patients find relief in other natural supplements based around healthy compounds that can alleviate symptoms and improve joint health.
- Vitamin A
This naturally-occurring vitamin is essential for good health. It is found in many fruits and vegetables, including carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and melons, eggs, dairy, and fish oil. As an antioxidant, it can boost the immune system and support bone growth.
When taken regularly, this vitamin has shown to improve bone strength and reduce inflammation, making it a helpful supplement for reducing arthritis symptoms. It’s possible to receive sufficient recommended vitamin A from everyday foods, but you can consult with your doctor to find out if supplementation could benefit you.
- Collagen
Collagen, a building block of the body, is a protein that naturally occurs to create our connective tissue. It is found in various tissues around the body including, cartilage, bones, and skin.
But as you age, collagen production slows down, which can wear out the joints’ cartilage and connective tissue and contribute to arthritis and other joint pain. This makes it important to supplement natural collagen production as you age.
Collagen is found in many foods, including bone broth and fish. Some foods like garlic also stimulate the natural production of collagen. But if you’re worried about not getting enough in your diet, studies show that taking collagen protein peptide supplements may improve muscle integrity and increase cartilage health.
- Calcium
Calcium is an essential mineral connected to bone health. It is naturally found in dairy products and some vegetables, including leafy greens like kale. Studies show those who lack calcium consumption can be more susceptible to bone fractures. Doctors recommend taking supplements to those with dairy allergies that make it harder to consume calcium naturally.
For those dealing with arthritis symptoms, increasing calcium content may strengthen bones. This can alleviate arthritis symptoms, especially when paired with vitamin D. There are many calcium supplements with varying combinations and ingredients, so consult with a doctor or nutritionist to find the supplement that’s right for you.
- Turmeric
Turmeric is a natural root used in cooking, with a distinctive orange hue and filled with powerful antioxidants. Like all antioxidants, it has anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce joint swelling when consumed in food or supplements.
Turmeric supplement studies show they have a similar effect to prescription anti-inflammatory medications without the side effects. While raw turmeric can have a bitter flavor, most turmeric supplements come in easy-to-swallow pills and can be taken with meals.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Working good fats into your diet is critical, and few fats show more health benefits than omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are essential to overall health, but one of their advantages is reducing inflammation. They are found in many foods, so it’s easy to fill your diet with them by eating salmon, eggs, leafy green vegetables, and walnuts. They are also found in health-food ingredients like flaxseed and fish oil supplements.
Studies including adults with knee arthritis indicate omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce arthritis pain. While omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation, omega-6 fatty acids—found in many red meats and vegetable oils—can increase inflammation.
It’s important to make sure your body’s supply of these two fatty acids is balanced and to supplement your omega-3 intake, if needed, to reduce inflammation.
A Simple Path to Less Arthritis Pain
While arthritis can be a painful and limiting condition that makes it harder to do the things you love, it’s not untreatable. Reducing inflammation can provide greater mobility and reduced pain, making exercise easier and increasing your flexibility. These healthy supplements show promising results in reducing arthritis pain, and most are available over the counter at your local pharmacy. If you want more hands-on guidance in fighting the effects of arthritis, consider a house call doctor in Orlando. They offer longer appointments and telehealth services.