Osteoarthritis: How To Choose A Joint Supplement

Osteoarthritis is a type of joint disease that results from breakdown of joint cartilage and underlying bone. The most common symptoms are joint pain and stiffness. It is often known as a “wear and tear” condition as the pain gradually intensifies. The most common joints affected is knee, hips, hands and spine.¹

Supplements for Osteoarthritis

1. GLUCOSAMINE

Glucosamine makes glycosaminoglycans and glycoproteins, which are essential building blocks of many structures of the joints, including the ligaments, tendons, cartilage and synovial fluid. This is the most common type of joint supplement, but the multiple studies conducted for it shows mixed results. Arthritis research UK suggests that this supplement is safe. Effectiveness score in osteoarthritis for Glucosamine Sulphate is 2 out of 5. Effectiveness score in osteoarthritis for Glucosamine Hydrochloride is 1 out of 5.¹

2. CHONDROITIN

Chondroitin can reduce the activity of enzymes and substances that break down collagen in joints. Other studies have demonstrated that it has anti-inflammatory properties. Arthritis research UK suggests that this supplement is safe. Effectiveness score in osteoarthritis for Chondroitin is 2 out of 5.¹

3. MSM

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) plays an important role in formation of collagen and glucosamine.MSM has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Arthritis research UK suggests that this supplement is safe. Effectiveness score in osteoarthritis for MSM is 2 out of 5.¹

4. HYALURONIC ACID

Hyaluronate is a high molecular weight, abundant molecule that naturally occurs within the cartilage and synovial fluid. The main function of hyaluronic acid in knee osteoarthritis is thought to be its lubricating effect. Oral supplements of Hyaluronic acid have shown that it may improve symptoms of osteoarthritis. Safety studies showed that no toxicity was observed with oral Hyaluronic acid.^{2, 3}

5. COLLAGEN TYPE 2

Type 2 collagen is one of the main proteins in cartilage. Several studies suggest collagen hydrolysate can improve the symptoms of osteoarthritis by stimulating the production of joint collagen. Arthritis research UK suggests that this supplement is safe. Effectiveness score in osteoarthritis for Collagen is 2 out of 5.¹

6. GREEN-LIP MUSSEL

The role of green-lip mussel in reducing osteoarthritis symptoms has not been fully understood. What is known that green-lip mussel extract contains omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids, minerals and carbohydrates. Some studies suggest omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and are important for maintaining joint cell structure and function. Arthritis research UK suggests that this supplement is safe. Effectiveness score in osteoarthritis for green-lip mussel is 3 out of 5.¹

7. TUMERIC

Tumeric is known to have anti-inflammatory properties. This supplement has been used as a traditional medicine for joint pain and various other ailments. Arthritis research UK suggests that this supplement is safe. Effectiveness score in osteoarthritis for tumeric is 2 out of 5.¹