A joint is the place where two bones in the human body come together. Joints are prone to degeneration with aging and excessive use and there are various diseases that can afflict them, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. MayoClinic.com reports that certain supplements can help in maintaining healthy joints and also in relieving the pain and discomfort associated with diseased joints.
Glucosamine
According to MayoClinic.com, glucosamine is one of the supplements that can help promote good joint health. The composition of healthy cartilages includes glucosamine, which is a natural compound. MayoClinic.com further states that glucosamine sulfate serves as a useful treatment for osteoarthritis of the knees. Using this supplement can help in reducing the doses of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications prescribed for relieving the symptoms of osteoarthritis.
Chondroitin
Another supplement that has been found to promote good joint health is chondroitin. Created from natural sources such as shark or beef cartilage, MayoClinic.com also enumerates that chondroitin taken along with glucosamine serves as a more potent form. The combination of these two supplements bring about relief from the symptoms seen in osteoarthritis and also stop the degeneration that is characteristic of this condition. Synthetic forms of chondroitin exist as well and may also be useful.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
The National Institutes of Health states that Omega-3 fatty acids are also beneficial in promoting good joint health. It says that this beneficial compound is found in fish oil and fishes that are high in this compound include herring, mackerel, salmon, and tuna. Fish oil supplements have been found to be useful in relieving the tenderness in joints. It also reduces morning stiffness that is characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis.
Other Supplements
The National Institutes of Health states that there are certain other supplements that are good for joint health, especially for people with rheumatoid arthritis. This includes oil extracted from seeds of certain plants such as evening primrose and black currant, which contain a form of Omega-6 fatty acid, known as gamma linolenic acid. Besides these, there are certain herbs such as thunder god vine, turmeric, boswellia, ginger, and green tea that can also help in promoting good joint health and in relieving inflammatory arthritis.
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