Joint health is important to everyone, especially older adults and athletes. As the body ages, cartilage in the joints can deteriorate. The same thing can happen to athletes who have suffered joint injuries or athletes who run frequently. Certain supplements are proven to promote joint health.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine, a natural substance found in cartilage, is essential for joint health. The supplement form, glucosamine sulfate, has been studied as a treatment for osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a disease that causes cartilage breakdown between joints. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some of the benefits of glucosamine include pain reduction, increased range of motion and reduction of swelling and inflammation. Take glucosamine daily with other joint health supplements such as chondroitin or methylsulfonylmethane.
Methylsulfonlmethane
Methylsulfonylmethane, or MSM, often used in conjunction with glucosamine, has promising benefits for people suffering with joint problems. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that MSM is important in joint health and helps form connective tissue. It may also slow the nerve impulses that transmit pain signals, thus reducing pain. MSM can be taken as a dietary supplement or consumed in foods like eggs, meats and Brussels sprouts.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin, a supplement often made from shark cartilage, supports joint health. The Mayo Clinic reports that the consensus of expert and industry opinions supports the use of chondroitin and its common partner agent, glucosamine, for improving symptoms and stopping--or possibly reversing--the degenerative process of osteoarthritis. Purchase chondroitin and other joint health supplements at drug stores, health food stores or grocery stores.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C supports cartilage health. The University of Maryland Medical Center advises that vitamin C is essential for the body to make collagen, which is a part of normal cartilage. Foods like citrus and peppers are high in vitamin C, but supplements are available and are readily absorbed by the body. Vitamin C also has immune-boosting and cancer prevention properties because of its high level of antioxidants.
Calcium
While glucosamine, MSM, chondroitin and vitamin C support joint health by improving cartilage, calcium promotes bone health. According to the National Institutes of Health, when calcium intake is low, or ingested calcium is poorly absorbed, bone breakdown occurs as the body uses its stored calcium to maintain normal biological functions. This can lead to osteoporosis. Adequate calcium intake is important; you can consume it through dietary sources such as dairy and vegetables like kale or through supplements. Taking calcium with vitamin D improves absorption of the mineral.
