Minerals, herbs, and vitamins for arthritis may be able to help people managearthritis symptoms.
However, more research is needed.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Verywell / Getty Images
Verywell / Getty Images
1.
Vitamin A
Vitamin Ais an antioxidant that is known to support bone growth.
Vitamin A can help relieve pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Side Effects of Vitamin A
Getting too much vitamin A can cause side effects.
Supplements have been associated with an increased risk of lung cancer in smokers.
Vitamin A deficiency can cause a weakened immune system and night blindness, but both are rare.
Benefits of Vitamin C
Studies have shown that vitamin C can benefit most people with early osteoarthritis.
Vitamin C may be able to preventgoutby lowering uric acid levels.
There is also evidence suggesting vitamin C canlower blood pressureenough to reduce the risk of stroke.
Side Effects of Vitamin C
Vitamin C is generally safe.
Even in high doses, it is not believed to cause series side effects.
The most common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal cramps, and other gastrointestinal problems.
Research has shown that people with vitamin D deficiency are be more likely to have rheumatoid arthritis.
However, supplementing with vitamin D doesnt seem to help in these cases.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant.
This vitamin may also slow down the progression of osteoarthritis by improvingoxidative stressand inflammation in the joints.
The primary side effect of supplements is bleeding.
In some cases, bleeding can be severe.
The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) is 15 mg for adults.
Symptoms of vitamin E deficiency include:
4.
Vitamin K
Vitamin Khas a protein called osteocalcin.
This protein aids in the production of healthy bone tissues in the body.
There is limited evidence from clinical trials so more research needs to be conducted.
However, vitamin K can interact with some medications.
Both forms help with blood clotting and bone metabolism.
Many Americans dont get the recommended dosages from food alone.
The primary signs of vitamin K deficiency are bleeding and osteoporosis.
The best vitamin for arthritis depends on your individual needs.
Speak with a healthcare provider to get your levels checked.
Calcium
Calciumis a mineral that helps to maintain strongteeth and bones.
It also regulates muscles.
Benefits of Calcium
Calcium is known to help prevent the loss of bone density and fractures.
This can help patients who have osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Calcium has known interactions with certain medications.
However, research has now debunked this claim.
For arthritis patients and postmenopausal women, 1,500 mg a day is ideal.
Consult with your healthcare professional to discuss options.
Collagen
Collagen is a protein that consists of amino acids.
It is known to provide support to the connective tissues.
Connective tissues are your skin, bones, ligaments, tendons, and the cartilage that protects your joints.
Your body starts to lose collagen when you reach the age of 25 or 30 years.
There are 28 different types of collagen.
The most common types found in supplements are I through V. throw in II is best for joint pain.
One study found a potential benefit in regard to pain and stiffness in people with osteoarthritis of the knee.
Collagen may be able to help people with rheumatoid arthritis, but more research is needed to verify this.
Side Effects of Collagen
There are no known risks of consuming collagen.
Where to Find Collagen
Collagen comes from food, namely animal products.
However, both animal and plant products can help your body make collagen.
A safe and recommended dose of collagen is 2.5 to 15 g per day.
Foods that boost collagen production include:
7.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 has fatty acids that are known to reduce inflammation and help arthritis patients.
Studies have shown that an increase in omega-3 fatty acids can lead to the reduction of inflammation.
The way to increase the levels of omega-3 fatty acid is through food and dietary supplements.
Side Effects of Omega-3s
Omega-3 supplementation is generally considered safe.
However, long-term use and high doses may eventually lead to reduced immune function and bleeding problems.
If you stick to the recommended amount, the risk is small.
However, supplements are also available.
The recommended dosages of omega-3 fatty acids is 1,100 mg for women and 1,600 mg for men.
The recommended dosages of EPA and DHA is 200 to 500 mg.
8.
Benefits of Glucosamine
Glucosamine may be able to reduce inflammation and protect cartilage.
It may also be able to slow the deterioration of cartilage in the joints, while reducing pain.
However, the evidence is mixed.
Although its effects were not very strong, glucosamine was more effective than a placebo.
Some side effects include:
Glucosamine is not appropriate for everyone.
Glucosamine can cause interactions with some medications.
Where to Find Glucosamine
Glucosamine is available in supplement form.
It is sold as glucosamine sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride, and N-acetyl glucosamine.
Adults can use glucosamine in doses of 1,500 mg a day for up to three years.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin sulfate is a chemical found in the cartilage of humans and animals.
It is often taken with glucosamine or other ingredients for osteoarthritis.
It may also be effective for cataracts.
Other studies could not conclude that chondroitin can help grow or repair new cartilage.
Side Effects of Chondroitin
Chondroitin is usually taken as a supplement.
Some side effects include:
Dont use chondroitin if you are taking warfarin (Coumadin).
Chondroitin can interact with warfarin and lead to bruising and serious bleeding.
Chondroitin may not be safe to use if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you have asthma, it may make your symptoms worse.
Chondroitin is also known as chondroitin sulfate and chondroitin sulfuric acid.
Chondroitin sulfate is a combination of chondroitin and mineral salt.
Dimethyl Sulfoxide
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a colorless and sulfur-containing product.
It is a by-product of wood pulp processing.
Its also thought to increase blood flow.
At this time, its not certain whether it actually works.
Side Effects of DMSO
DMSO is safe when used in small doses.
Most side effects of DMSO are short-lived and mild.
Where to Find DMSO
DMSO can be used topically (on the skin) or internally.
Creams and gels are available for topical utility.
A healthcare provider can prescribe DMSO for internal use.
MSM is used for a number of purposes.
The most common is an anti-inflammatory agent.
It can also reduce oxidative stress alleviate joint and muscle pain.
It is also available in combination products and as a topical agent in creams and gels.
There isnt a recommended dietary allowance for MSM.
It provides about the same amount of pain relief and improvement in joint function.
Side Effects of SAMe
Side effects of SAMe are uncommon and usually minor.
They include nausea and digestive issues.
SAMe may not be right for everyone.
Where to Find SAMe
SAMe is available as a dietary supplement.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in the human body.
It is a gel-like substance that provides lubrication, encourages growth of bones and cartilage, and reduces inflammation.
Side Effects of Hyaluronic Acid
There is not a lot of research on side effects.
In one study, participants receiving hyaluronic acid reported no side effects.
Where to Find Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid can be obtained through injections or supplements.
The common recommendation is 200 mg daily.
Benefits of ASU
ASU may have some beneficial effects on chemical functions that contribute to osteoarthritis.
On a clinical level, ASU also reduces pain and improves joint function.
ASU is also used for rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune disorders.
It can protect the joints and reduce inflammation.
Where to Find ASU
ASU is available as a dietary supplement.
The recommended dosage is 300 mg of soft gel daily.
Green Tea
Green teahas strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
This is due to thepolyphenols.
The other ingredient in green tea that produces strong antioxidant properties is epigallocatechin 3-gallate (EGCG).
This is known to help preserve the bones and cartilage.
However, more research is needed to verify this association.
Liver problems are an uncommon side effect of green tea products.
Green tea may interact with Corgard (nadolol), abeta-blockerused to treat high blood pressure and heart problems.
It may also interact with other medications.
Devils Claw
Devils clawis a plant native to South Africa that is known to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Devils claw has anti-inflammatory effects and an ability to reduce pain.
However, more research needs to be done on the medicinal potential of devils claw.
The recommended dose is 750 to 1,000 mg three times a day.
Turmeric
Turmericis a root plant related to ginger.
Curcumin is a known ingredient in turmeric that helps to block inflammation and may have a blood-thinning effect.
Benefits of Turmeric
Turmeric may be beneficial to people with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
People with knee osteoarthritis may find turmeric improves knee pain and function.
With its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric has been shown to be just as effective as NSAIDs.
The recommended dose is 500 to 2,000 mg per day.
Ginger
Gingeris a root that may help symptoms of arthritis.
Studies have shown that ginger decreases the pro-inflammatory gene expression and also increases the ability to increase anti-inflammatory genes.
Side Effects of Ginger
The mild side effects of ginger include heartburn, nausea, and gas.
If you are taking blood thinners or have gallstones, ginger may not be recommended.
Bromelain Extract
Bromelain is a group of enzymes found in the fruit and stem of the pineapple plant.
This supplement may be able to reduce pain and swelling in people with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
It is also believed to increase mobility.
Side Effects of Bromelain Extract
The common side effects are upset stomach and diarrhea.
People who are allergic to pineapples or who have other allergies may experience allergic reactions after consuming bromelain.
People who are pregnant or breastfeeding may want to avoid bromelain.
There isnt enough information available to know if bromelain is safe for these groups.
The recommended doses are 500 to 2,000 mg of capsules or tablets three times a day between meals.
Benefits of Boswellia
Boswellia contains boswellic acid, which acts to reduce inflammation and arthritis.
It may also be able to improve pain and physical function.
Due to these properties, Boswellia can benefit people with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other inflammatory diseases.
Side Effects of Boswellia
Boswellia is generally considered safe.
It has not been shown to cause toxic side effects, even if taken in high doses.
However, more research is needed to investigate possible side effects.
Where to Find Boswellia
Boswellia can be taken as an herb or as an extract.
The recommended dosage is at least 100 to 250 mg for four weeks.
Consult a healthcare provider to help you determine which option is best for you.
A healthcare provider can help you find the right supplement, herb, or vitamin for your arthritis symptoms.
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