When the body responds to an injury or infection, it causes inflammation. Chronic inflammation can cause pain and damage to the body’s joints, muscles, tissues, and other structures. It can also result in debilitating medical conditions like arthritis.
When you are in chronic pain, your quality of life suffers. It can disrupt your routine, preventing you from performing your job, driving, or performing household chores.
You might be able to find relief without resorting to prescription medications. Many medications have unfavourable side effects and may cause more harm than good.
Before beginning a supplement regimen, consult your doctor. Your doctor will need to determine the source of your pain before recommending a supplement. Some supplements, when combined with various treatment methods, have the potential to reduce inflammation and manage pain.
The supplements listed below are some of the best for relieving inflammation and pain caused by injuries, diseases, and other medical conditions.
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Curcumin
Turmeric contains a compound known as curcumin. It has a variety of health benefits, including reducing inflammation caused by cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and other diseases. Curcumin can also help with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis symptoms by reducing inflammation.
Curcumin is difficult for the body to absorb into the bloodstream. Consuming black pepper along with the supplement may improve absorption.
The daily dose is approximately 500 milligrams. Higher doses have been associated with symptoms such as diarrhea, headaches, and nausea.
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Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a naturally occurring component of cartilage. When bones rub against each other, the substance reduces pain and inflammation.
If you have arthritis, taking glucosamine sulfate supplements may help prevent cartilage breakdown. It may also be used to relieve joint pain and slow the progression of osteoarthritis.
The typical recommended dose of glucosamine sulfate is 1,500 milligrams once daily. If you have an upset stomach, you could take three 500-milligram doses instead.
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Chondroitin
Chondroitin, like glucosamine, is a component of cartilage. Taking chondroitin has been shown in clinical studies to reduce joint stiffness and pain caused by osteoarthritis. It may also help to prevent cartilage breakdown.
Long-term supplement use may also slow the progression of osteoarthritis.
Glucosamine and chondroitin are frequently combined in supplements to relieve joint pain and inflammation.
The typical chondroitin dosage is 400 to 800 milligrams taken two to three times per day.
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Ginger root
Ginger root is commonly used in hummus, fried rice, stir fry, and a variety of other delectable dishes. It’s also a natural treatment for morning sickness, nausea, and indigestion during pregnancy.
Gingerol and zingerone are two ginger components that may reduce inflammation caused by type 2 diabetes and other health conditions.
One study found that breast cancer patients who took a ginger supplement had lower levels of CRP and IL-6 inflammatory markers than those in the placebo group.
It is safe to consume up to two grams of ginger per day. Anything higher may have an effect on the blood and cause it to thin. If you’re taking a blood thinner at the same time, this effect can be fatal.
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Fish Oil
Fish oil supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have a number of health benefits. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce inflammation in conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and others.
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are the two main omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil (EPA). DHA has anti-inflammatory properties, promoting gut health and lowering cytokine levels in the body. It can also help to reduce muscle damage and inflammation after exercise.
A safe dose of fish oil should contain less than two grams of EPA and DHA combined. Heartburn, gastrointestinal upset, bad breath, and fishy burps are common side effects. If you’re taking a blood thinner or have a weakened immune system, you should consult your doctor before starting a fish oil supplement regimen.
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Boswellia
Boswellia may provide some relief from the pain associated with arthritis. Chemicals in Boswellia acid extract have anti-inflammatory properties and may help with osteoarthritis pain symptoms.
If you’re using the supplement to relieve joint pain, you could take 100 milligrams once a day up to 333 milligrams three times a day.
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Vitamins
Vitamins Antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E, as well as vitamins D and K, have all been studied for their impact on arthritis. There is currently no evidence that taking antioxidant vitamins improves arthritic symptoms, but eating a diet rich in these nutrients is generally beneficial. Vitamins D and K are both necessary for bone strength, and vitamin K helps cartilage develop. Supplementing these two nutrients may be beneficial if you are deficient in them.
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Relief Factor
Relief Factor is a pain relief supplement that claims to help users reduce body discomfort caused by daily activities, aging, and exercise. The mixture’s components help to improve the body’s inflammatory and pain pathways while also restoring flexibility and mobility.
The packets, which contain two capsules and 2 soft gels, should be taken 3 times per day until “discomfort moderates,” then twice daily.
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Collagen
Collagen, an amino acid-based protein, has long been praised for improving skin elasticity. Less research has been done on its anti-inflammatory properties: some studies claim it can help with joint pain, while others claim it can help with muscle soreness but not inflammation.
Collagen is commonly available in the form of a capsule, powder, or liquid that can be mixed into food or drinks. Consuming more protein and vitamin C-rich foods like chicken, fish, eggs, and citrus fruits can also help your body’s natural collagen levels.
The Bottom Line
If you do decide to take supplements, do so in addition to your anti-inflammatory and pain medication, not in place of it.
Before attempting any new supplement, consult with your doctor to ensure that it is appropriate for you and that you are taking a safe dose. Also, with your pharmacist, go over your entire supplement and drug list to rule out any potential interactions.
