The bones and joints are subject to certain maladies that may be responsive to supplements. Arthritis, an inflammation of the joints, and osteoporosis, a weakening of the bones, are very common disorders seen with aging. Use supplements as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for bone health in consultation with your physician.
Minerals
According to American Bone Health, a public education and advocacy organization, calcium is not the only mineral necessary for bone health. Deficiencies in boron, a vital trace mineral, may lead to suboptimal bone development. Copper, zinc and iron assist with bone formation. Potassium helps maintain calcium balance, magnesium may help bone mineral density, and phosphorous promotes the remineralization of bones and teeth. Although they are available in supplement form, these minerals are obtainable through an adequate diet. Some are toxic when taken in excess. Do not take mineral supplements for bone health without consulting your physician first.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Glucosamine and chondroitin are both compounds that naturally occur in healthy cartilage. They are often combined into a single supplement for osteoarthritis, a painful condition caused by wear and tear on the joints. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, a large-scale clinical trial conducted at 16 study centers nationwide found mixed results for glucosamine and chondroitin in arthritis patients. Overall, glucosamine and chondroitin were no better than placebo in relieving arthritis pain. However, a small subset of patients with moderate-to-severe arthritis benefited from the combination. Use glucosamine and chondroitin under the supervision of a qualified health care professional.
Herbs
"Earl Mindell's New Herb Bible" lists several herbs used for relieving the joint stiffness and pain of osteoarthritis. Boswellia, an herb widely used in the Ayurvedic healing system of India, can be taken orally or used as a liniment on sore joints. Ginger and turmeric may be taken internally for their anti-inflammatory properties, and willow bark contains pain-killing salicylic acid, a compound closely related to the active ingredient in aspirin.
Vitamins
Vitamins C, D, K and A are vital nutrients for bone health, according to the NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center. Vitamins C and K are both factors in the metabolic processes that form the bone matrix, and vitamin D helps the body absorb and utilize calcium. Adequate vitamin A is necessary for bone growth, but an excess of vitamin A can increase the risk of fractures. Ask a qualified health care professional if vitamin supplements are appropriate for you.
References
- American Bone Health: The Minerals You Need for Optimum Bone Health
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Questions and Answers: NIH Glucosamine/chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial Primary Study
- "Earl Mindell's New Herb Bible"; Earl Mindell, 2002
- NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center: Calcium and Vitamin D: Important at Every Age
- NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center: Vitamin A and Bone Health
- NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center: Other Nutrients and Bone Health At A Glance
