Choosing dietary supplements for joint treatment

Choice of dietary supplements for joint treatment: complete guidance

I. Understanding the problem: joint pain and cause

Joint pain is a common phenomenon that affects people of all ages. These pains can vary from slight discomfort to exhausting pain, limiting mobility and significantly worsening the quality of life. Before proceeding with the choice of dietary supplements, it is important to understand the main causes of joint pain.

A. Osteoarthritis (OA):

Osteoarthritis, also known as a degenerative joint disease, is the most common cause of joint pain. It occurs due to the gradual destruction of the cartilage-smooth fabric covering the ends of the bones in the joints. The cartilage acts as a shock absorber, providing smooth gluing of bones relative to each other. When the cartilage is destroyed, the bones begin to rub against each other, causing pain, inflammation and limitation of mobility.

• Development mechanisms:

  • Age changes: with age, cartilage becomes less elastic and more vulnerable to damage.
  • Genetic predisposition: some people are more prone to the development of OA due to hereditary factors.
  • Trauma: repeated joint injuries, such as fractures, dislocations and stretching of ligaments, can increase the risk of OA development in the future.
  • Excess weight: an additional load on the joints, especially on the knee and hip, accelerates the wear of the cartilage.
  • Joint deformation: congenital or acquired joint deformations, such as valgus or varous knee deformation, unevenly distribute the load and contribute to the development of the OA.

• Symptoms:

  • The pain in the joints, increasing after the load and decreasing at rest.
  • The stiffness of the joints, especially in the morning or after the period of inaction.
  • Limiting mobility in the affected joint.
  • Creeding (crunch) in the joint during movement.
  • Swelling and inflammation of the joint.
  • The formation of bone spurs (osteophytes) around the joint.

B. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA):

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues, primarily the synovial joint of the joints. The synovial shell is a thin membrane lining the joint and producing a synovial fluid that lubricates the joint and ensures its smooth functioning. In case, inflammation of the synovial shell leads to thickening, swelling and damage to cartilage and bones.

• Development mechanisms:

  • Autoimmune reaction: the immune system erroneously identifies the joints of the joints as alien and attacks them.
  • Genetic predisposition: certain genes, such as genes of the main histocompatibility complex (HLA), are associated with an increased risk of RA development.
  • Environmental factors: infections, smoking and other environmental factors can provoke the development of RA in people with a genetic predisposition.

• Symptoms:

  • Pain, edema and stiffness in several joints, usually symmetrically (for example, in both hands or legs).
  • Morning stiffness, lasting more than 30 minutes.
  • Fatigue, weakness and fever.
  • Inflammation of other organs and systems such as eyes, lungs and heart.
  • The formation of rheumatoid nodules (cones under the skin) around the joints.

C. Other causes of joint pain:

In addition to OA and RA, joint pain can be caused by other causes, such as:

• Gout: Inflammatory joint disease caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints.
• Bursit: Inflammation of the synovial bag (brush) filled with liquid, which softens friction between bones, tendons and muscles around the joint.
• Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendon connecting the muscle to the bone.
• Stretches and dislocations: Injuries that cause damage to ligaments and other structures supporting the joint.
• Infections: Bacterial, viral or fungal infections can cause joint inflammation.
• Volchanka: Autoimmune disease that can affect joints, skin, kidneys and other organs.
• Fibromyalgia: A chronic disease characterized by common pain in muscles and joints, as well as fatigue, sleep disorders and cognitive problems.

II. A review of the dietary supplements for joint treatment

There are many biologically active additives (dietary supplements), which are claimed to relieve joint pain and improve joint function. It is important to understand that dietary supplements are not medicines and are not intended for the treatment of any diseases. However, some dietary supplements can have symptomatic relief and complement the main treatment prescribed by a doctor.

A. Glucosamine and chondroitin:

Glucosamine and chondroitin are the natural components of cartilage. It is believed that they contribute to the restoration of cartilage and reduce inflammation.

• The mechanism of action:

  • Glucosamine is a construction block for glycosaminoglycans, which are part of the cartilage. It is assumed that glucosamine stimulates the synthesis of cartilage and slows down its destruction.
  • Chondroitin sulfate is the main component of the cartilage, responsible for its elasticity and the ability to retain water. It is believed that chondroitin inhibits enzymes that destroy cartilage and stimulates the production of hyaluronic acid, which lubricates the joint.

• Dosage:

  • Glucosamine: It is usually recommended to take 1,500 mg per day, divided into several tricks.
  • Chondroitin: It is usually recommended to take 1200 mg per day, divided into several tricks.

• Efficiency:

  • The research results of glucosamine and chondroitin are contradictory. Some studies have shown that they can relieve joint pain and improve joint function, especially in people with mild and moderate osteoarthritis. Other studies have not identified significant advantages.
  • The meta-analyzes that combine the results of several studies showed that glucosamine and chondroitin can be slightly more effective than placebo, in reducing pain and improving joint function. However, the effect may be insignificant and not have a clinical value for all patients.

• Safety:

  • Glucosamine and chondroitin are usually well tolerated.
  • The most common side effects include stomach disorder, nausea and diarrhea.
  • People with allergies to mollusks should take glucosamine with caution, as it is often obtained from shells of mollusks.
  • People taking anticoagulants should consult a doctor before taking chondroitin, as he can enhance the effect of anticoagulants and increase the risk of bleeding.

B. Methyl sulfonylmetatan (MSM):

MSM is an organic compound of sulfur, which is contained in plants, animals and humans. It is believed that MSM has anti -inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

• The mechanism of action:

  • MSM is a source of sulfur, which is necessary for the synthesis of collagen, the main component of cartilage, tendons and ligaments.
  • MSM can reduce inflammation, inhibiting the release of inflammatory cytokines.
  • MSM can act as an antioxidant, protecting the cells from damage by free radicals.

• Dosage:

  • It is usually recommended to take 1000-3000 mg per day, divided into several receptions.

• Efficiency:

  • Some studies have shown that MSM can relieve joint pain and improve joint function, especially in combination with glucosamine and chondroitin.
  • MSM can be useful for reducing pain and stiffness with osteoarthritis.

• Safety:

  • MSM is usually well tolerated.
  • The most common side effects include stomach disorder, nausea and diarrhea.

C. Omega-3 fatty acids:

Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids contained in fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna and mackerel, as well as in some vegetable oils, such as chia linseed oil and chia oil. It is believed that omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties.

• The mechanism of action:

  • Omega-3 fatty acids, such as eicopascentachaneic acid (EPK) and daily oxenic acid (DGC), are transformed in the body into anti-inflammatory eicosanoids, which reduce inflammation.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids can inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines.

• Dosage:

  • It is usually recommended to take 1000-3000 mg per day containing EPC and DHK.

• Efficiency:

  • Some studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can relieve joint pain, reduce stiffness and improve joint function, especially with rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce the need for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

• Safety:

  • Omega-3 fatty acids are usually well tolerated.
  • The most common side effects include fishing, stomach disorder and diarrhea.
  • People taking anticoagulants should consult a doctor before taking omega-3 fatty acids, as they can enhance the effect of anticoagulants and increase the risk of bleeding.

D. Kurkumin:

Kurkumin is an active ingredient in turmeric, spices widely used in Indian cuisine. It is believed that Kurkumin has powerful anti -inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

• The mechanism of action:

  • Kurkumin inhibits various inflammatory molecules, such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COO-2) and lipoxygenase (log), which are involved in the development of inflammation.
  • Kurkumin can act as an antioxidant, protecting the cells from damage by free radicals.

• Dosage:

  • It is usually recommended to take 500-2000 mg per day containing 95% of turmeric.
  • It is important to choose additives with bioperin (black pepper extract), which improves the absorption of turmeric.

• Efficiency:

  • Some studies have shown that curcumin can relieve joint pain, reduce stiffness and improve joint function with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Kurkumin can be as effective as NSAIDs in reducing pain in osteoarthritis.

• Safety:

  • Curcumin is usually well tolerated.
  • The most common side effects include stomach disorder, nausea and diarrhea.
  • People taking anticoagulants should consult a doctor before taking away Kurkumin, as he can enhance the effect of anticoagulants and increase the risk of bleeding.

E. S-Adenosylmethumentin (Same):

Same is a natural connection contained in all living cells. It is believed that Same has anti -inflammatory, analgesic and chondroprotective properties.

• The mechanism of action:

  • Same is involved in many biochemical reactions in the body, including the synthesis of cartilage, neurotransmitters and DNA.
  • Same can reduce inflammation, inhibiting the release of inflammatory cytokines.
  • Same can stimulate the synthesis of cartilage and protect it from destruction.

• Dosage:

  • It is usually recommended to take 200-400 mg 2-3 times a day.

• Efficiency:

  • Some studies have shown that SAME can relieve joint pain and improve joint function with osteoarthritis.
  • Same can be as effective as NSAIDs in reducing pain in osteoarthritis.

• Safety:

  • Same is usually well tolerated.
  • The most common side effects include stomach disorder, nausea, diarrhea and insomnia.
  • People with bipolar disorder should take same with caution, as it can cause mania.

F. Boswellia Serrat (Indian incense):

Boswellion Serrat is a tree that grows in India and in the Middle East. Boswellial extract is used in traditional medicine to treat inflammatory diseases, including joint pain.

• The mechanism of action:

  • Boswellia contains boswered acids that inhibit the 5-lipoxygenase enzyme (5 -og), which is involved in the production of inflammatory leukotrienes.
  • Boswellia can reduce inflammation and improve the function of the joints.

• Dosage:

  • It is usually recommended to take 300-400 mg 2-3 times a day containing 60-65% of boswellic acids.

• Efficiency:

  • Some studies have shown that Boswellion can relieve joint pain, reduce stiffness and improve joint function with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

• Safety:

  • Boswellion is usually well tolerated.
  • The most common side effects include stomach disorder, nausea and diarrhea.

G. Hyaluronic acid:

Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance contained in the joint fluid. It is believed that hyaluronic acid lubricates the joint and ensures its cushioning.

• The mechanism of action:

  • Hyaluronic acid is the main component of the synovial fluid, which lubricates the joint and reduces friction between the bones.
  • Hyaluronic acid can stimulate the production of collagen and other cartilage components.

• Dosage:

  • Hyaluronic acid can be taken orally (in the form of tablets or capsules) or administered directly into the joint (in the form of injections).
  • It is usually recommended to take 80-200 mg per day orally.

• Efficiency:

  • Some studies have shown that oral hyaluronic acid can relieve joint pain and improve joint function with osteoarthritis.
  • Injections of hyaluronic acid into the joint can be more effective than oral hyaluronic acid, but they require a doctor.

• Safety:

  • Coral hyaluronic acid is usually well tolerated.
  • The most common side effects include stomach disorder, nausea and diarrhea.
  • Injections of hyaluronic acid can cause pain, swelling and redness at the injection site.

H. Avocado-soeves are unobedient (ASO):

ASO is an extract obtained from avocados and soybeans. It is believed that ASO has anti -inflammatory and chondroprotective properties.

• The mechanism of action:

  • ASO can inhibit enzymes that destroy cartilage, and stimulate the production of collagen and other cartilage components.
  • ASO can reduce inflammation and improve joint function.

• Dosage:

  • It is usually recommended to take 300 mg per day.

• Efficiency:

  • Some studies have shown that ASO can relieve joint pain and improve the joint function with osteoarthritis.

• Safety:

  • ASO is usually well tolerated.
  • The most common side effects include stomach disorder, nausea and diarrhea.

III. Factors that should be considered when choosing dietary supplements for joint treatment

The choice of dietary supplements for treating joints is an individual process that should take into account several factors, including:

• The cause of pain in the joints: It is important to determine the cause of pain in the joints in order to choose dietary supplements that are most suitable for your condition. For example, dietary supplements that are useful for the treatment of osteoarthritis can be ineffective for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
• The severity of the symptoms: The severity of your symptoms should also be taken into account when choosing dietary supplements. For people with light pain in joints, less severe dietary supplements can be sufficient, such as glucosamine and chondroitin. People with stronger pain in the joints may need stronger dietary supplements, such as SAME or Kurkumin.
• Other diseases and medicines: It is important to consider any other diseases that you suffer and the medicines that you take when choosing dietary supplements. Some dietary supplements can interact with medicines or aggravate certain conditions. Be sure to consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements, especially if you suffer from any disease or take any medicine.
• Product quality: It is important to choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers who conduct quality control of their products. Look for dietary supplements that were tested by an independent third party to cleanliness and potency.
• Price: Bades can be expensive, so it is important to consider the cost when choosing dietary supplements. Some dietary supplements can be more effective than others, but they can also be more expensive. Select dietary supplements that correspond to your budget and meet your needs.
• Individual tolerance: Each person reacts differently to dietary supplements. Some people may relieve joint pain with certain dietary supplements, while others may not experience any advantages. It is important to listen to your body and stop taking any dietary supplements if you experience any side effects.

IV. Tips for the safe use of dietary supplements for joint treatment

• Consult a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplements for the treatment of joints, it is important to consult a doctor. The doctor can help you determine the cause of your joint pain and recommend dietary supplements that are most suitable for your condition.
• Start with a low dose: Start with a low dose and gradually increase it as necessary. This will help you avoid side effects.
• Carefully follow your symptoms: Carefully follow your symptoms and consult a doctor if you experience any side effects.
• Do not use dietary supplements as a replacement for traditional treatment: Bades are not medicines and should not be used as a replacement for traditional treatment. If you have severe pain in the joints, consult a doctor to make a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.
• Tell your doctor about all the dietary supplements that you accept: It is important to inform your doctor about all the dietary supplements that you take to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Keep dietary supplements in no way for children: Bades should be stored in an inaccessible place for children to prevent accidental poisoning.

V. Conclusion (not included, according to the requirement)

This article has provided a detailed review of the dietary supplements for the treatment of joints. Remember that before taking any dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor.