Do Not Use Bullet Points, Numbered Lists, Or HTML Tags. Dietary dietary supplements: is it worth taking them? We understand the composition, efficiency and risks of joint pain — a problem affecting people of all ages. It can be caused by many factors, including injuries, arthritis, osteoarthrosis, autoimmune diseases and even infections. In search of relief, many turn to biologically active additives (dietary supplements), promising magical getting rid of discomfort and restoration of mobility. But are the dietary supplements for the joints are effective? What components are contained in them and how safe are they? Let’s figure it out. Glucosamine and chondroitin: pillars of articular additives Glucosamine and chondroitin are the two most popular components in the dietary supplements for joints. Glucosamine is an aminosahar, a natural component of cartilage. It is believed that it stimulates the production of glycosaminoglycans, which are building cartilage blocks. Chondroitin is a sulfate glycosaminoglican, also present in cartilage. It helps to keep water in cartilage, ensuring its elasticity and depreciation properties. The mechanism of action of glucosamine and chondroitin is not fully studied. It is assumed that they can have an anti -inflammatory effect and slow down the destruction of cartilage. However, the results of studies on the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin are ambiguous. Some studies show that they can relieve pain and improve the function of the joints, especially in people with osteoarthritis of mild and moderate severity. Other studies have not revealed a significant effect compared to placebo. The contradictions in the studies of glucosamine and chondroitin can be associated with various factors, including differences in dosages, forms of release, duration of administration and criteria for selection of patients. It is important to note that glucosamine and chondroitin are not drugs and cannot restore completely destroyed cartilage. They can only slow down the process of destruction and alleviate the symptoms of the disease. Hyaluronic acid: moisturizing and lubrication for the joints of hyaluronic acid is a substance that is naturally present in a synovial fluid filling the joint cavity. It acts as a lubricant, providing smooth sliding of the joint surfaces and depreciation when moving. With age or with the development of joint diseases, the concentration of hyaluronic acid in the synovial fluid may decrease, which leads to the friction of the articular surfaces and the occurrence of pain. Hyaluronic acid is available in the form of injections that are introduced directly into the articular cavity. Injections of hyaluronic acid can relieve pain and improve the function of the joints for a period of several months to a year. However, this method of treatment requires a qualified doctor and can be associated with the risk of side effects, such as pain, edema and infection. Hyaluronic acid is also available in the form of dietary supplements for oral administration. It is argued that the oral intake of hyaluronic acid can improve the condition of the joints, moisturize the skin and improve its elasticity. However, the effectiveness of oral hyaluronic acid in relation to the joints remains the subject of discussions. Some studies show that it can have a slight positive effect, but other studies have not revealed significant advantages compared to placebo. It is believed that most of the hyaluronic acid taken inside is split in the digestive tract and does not reach the joints in sufficient quantities. Collagen: building material for cartilage and ligament collagen is the main structural protein in the body, which forms the basis of cartilage, ligaments, tendons and bones. With age, the production of collagen in the body decreases, which can lead to weakening and destruction of articular tissues. Collagen is available in the form of dietary supplements presented in various forms, including hydrolyzed collagen (collagen peptides), gelatin and non-vested type II collagen (UC-II). A hydrolyzed collagen is a collagen split into smaller peptides, which are easier to absorb by the body. It is argued that the intake of hydrolyzed collagen can stimulate the production of its own collagen in the joints, strengthen cartilage and ligaments, and reduce pain and inflammation. A non-reinvented type II collagen (UC-II) acts in another mechanism. It is believed that it helps to reduce the autoimmune reaction to its own collagen in the joints, thereby slowing down the destruction of cartilage. The results of collagen effectiveness studies in relation to joints are also ambiguous. Some studies show that the intake of hydrolyzed collagen can relieve pain and improve joint function in people with osteoarthritis. Other studies have not identified significant advantages compared to placebo. Some studies show that UC-II can be more effective than glucosamine and chondroitin, in reducing pain and improving joint function. MSM (methyl sulfonylmetatan): Sure for the health of the joints of MSM is an organic compound of sulfur, which is naturally present in the body and many foods. Sure plays an important role in the formation of collagen, keratin and other important proteins necessary for the health of joints, skin and hair. It is claimed that the MSM has anti -inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and also helps to restore cartilage tissue. Some studies show that the intake of MSM can relieve pain and improve joint function in people with osteoarthritis. However, additional studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of MSM and determine the optimal dosage. Omega-3 fatty acids: anti-inflammatory effect of omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats, which are found in fish, seafood and some vegetable oils. Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, have anti-inflammatory properties and can have a positive effect on the health of the joints. It is believed that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation in the joints, relieve pain and improve mobility. Some studies show that the intake of omega-3 fatty acids can be useful for people with rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory joint diseases. However, it must be borne in mind that the effect of omega-3 fatty acids may not be as pronounced as in drugs. Vitamins and minerals: important components for joint health, some vitamins and minerals play an important role in maintaining joint health. Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium, which is the main building material for bones. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to weakening of bones and increasing the risk of fractures. Vitamin C is necessary for the synthesis of collagen, which is the main structural protein of cartilage fabric. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects the cells from damage by free radicals. Magnesium is necessary for the health of bones and muscles. Zinc plays an important role in the immune system and can have an anti -inflammatory effect. Manganese is necessary for the formation of bones and cartilage. Selenium is an antioxidant that protects the cells from damage. Plant extracts: natural remedies for alleviation of pain, some plant extracts have anti -inflammatory and analgesic properties and can be used to relieve joint pain. The turmeric extract containing curcumin has a pronounced anti -inflammatory effect. Ginger extract also has anti -inflammatory properties and can relieve pain and constraint in the joints. Boswellia extract contains bosvelic acids that have anti -inflammatory properties and can reduce the pain and edema in the joints. The diabolical claw extract has painkillers and anti -inflammatory properties and can be used to relieve joint pain and back. The risks and side effects of dietary supplements for the joints before taking any dietary supplements for the joints must be consulted with a doctor. Bades can interact with drugs and cause side effects. Some dietary supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, can cause side effects, such as stomach disorder, nausea, diarrhea and constipation. MSM can cause headache, fatigue and allergic reactions. Omega-3 fatty acids can cause blood thinning and increase the risk of bleeding. Plant extracts can cause allergic reactions and interact with drugs. It is important to remember that dietary supplements are not medicines and cannot replace full treatment. If you have joint pain, you must consult a doctor to establish a diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment. Bades can be used as an addition to the main treatment, but should not be its replacement. The quality and safety of dietary supplements quality and safety of dietary supplements can vary depending on the manufacturer. Some dietary supplements may contain the ingredients not indicated on the label, or contain the ingredients in irregular dosages. Some dietary supplements can be contaminated with heavy metals, pesticides or other harmful substances. When choosing dietary supplements, it is necessary to give preference to trusted manufacturers who have a good reputation and conduct quality control of their products. Pay attention to the availability of quality certificates and compliance with security standards. Do not buy dietary supplements from dubious sellers or on the Internet. Alternatives of dietary supplements for joint health are various alternatives of dietary supplements to maintain joint health. Regular physical exercises, such as walking, swimming and cycling, can strengthen the muscles that support joints and improve their function. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the load on the joints and reduce the risk of osteoarthrosis. Proper nutrition, rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, provides the body with the necessary vitamins and minerals for joint health. Physiotherapy can help relieve pain and improve joint function. In some cases, surgical intervention may be required to restore or replace the damaged joint. In conclusion, the question of whether it is worth taking dietary supplements for the joints remains open. The results of research on the effectiveness of dietary supplements are ambiguous, and their use should be individual and agreed with the doctor. It is important to remember that dietary supplements are not medicines and cannot replace full treatment. Before taking any dietary supplements, it is necessary to consult a doctor in order to make sure their safety and the absence of contraindications. Alternative methods, such as physical exercises, maintaining a healthy weight and proper nutrition, can also play an important role in maintaining joint health.