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Think about the amazing job our joints do for us throughout our lives. They enable movement between bones, allowing us to act and move with ease. Our joints withstand years of use, making it unsurprising that most of us, at some stage, suffer from joint problems—whether due to an injury or, in future years, arthritis resulting from the “wear and tear” of life’s activities. Others may deal with autoimmune diseases such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, which can be very chronic and debilitating.

With so many different products on the market, it can be confusing to know which nutrients for joint health are best for your specific issue. Read on for a concise and simple guide to the most effective nutrients for different joint problems:

Nutrients for joint health: For all joint issues

At the root of all joint issues, you will find inflammation. Therefore, in all instances, nutrients, herbs, and spices that support inflammation are essential for joint health. The nutrients with the most significant positive impact on inflammation are pure omega-3 fish oils, curcumin (one of the active components of turmeric), and the herb Boswellia.

Pure Omega-3 Fish Oil

This is one of the most powerful nutrients for joint health, particularly in reducing inflammation. Many of us have an Omega-6 fatty acid dominance, which fuels inflammation. Omega-3 fish oils help to balance this, promoting joint health.

Curcumin

Known as the king of natural anti-inflammatory compounds, curcumin works across multiple pathways in the body to reduce inflammation. A high-quality, well-absorbed form of curcumin can provide fast and effective support for joint health. Complementing curcumin, Boswellia has been shown to maintain joint health and support joint flexibility.

Nutrients for Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the “wear and tear” of our joints, especially those we have put the most strain on, such as our knees, or as a result of years of repetitive movements.

Collagen

As the most abundant protein in our bodies, collagen provides the "building blocks" for the structure and support of connective tissues, which are vital for healthy joints. It acts like scaffolding, providing structure and strength. With age, collagen production declines, making it a crucial nutrient for joint health.

Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and MSM

These nutrients are key for maintaining a healthy joint matrix. They may help to reduce painful joint symptoms and improve mobility. MSM is a crucial structural component of all connective tissue, while glucosamine is a building block needed to make cartilage and connective tissue.

Nutrients for rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a complex health issue involving both the immune system and the joints. Since immune health is linked to gut health, supporting a healthy gut is important for managing RA.

Vitamin D

Essential for a healthy and balanced immune system, vitamin D is often low in the UK, especially during the winter months. Ensuring adequate levels of this nutrient is vital for joint health, particularly for those with RA.

Non-dairy Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM® and Bifidobacterium lactis

These beneficial bacteria may support an optimal balance of gut bacteria, which is important for both immune and joint health.

Nutrients for stiff joints, mobility issues, pain, and general wear & tear

As we age, reduced mobility, stiffness, pain, and general wear and tear on the joints become more common. Keeping joints flexible through regular exercise that includes a full range of movement is essential for joint health.

Collagen

Collagen is the most important component of all connective tissue and its function is to give the tissues a mechanical resistance to stretching. Glucosamine, chondroitin, manganese and MSM may help to reduce painful joint symptoms and improve mobility.

Nutrients for bone health

Our joints are where bones meet, and as we age, support for both bone and joint health becomes increasingly important.

Calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, boron, and other trace minerals

These nutrients are key components of the bone matrix, which is essential for healthy bones and, consequently, joint health.

By understanding which nutrients for joint health are most beneficial for your specific needs, you can better support your joints throughout your life, ensuring they remain strong, flexible, and pain-free.

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