There are many natural supplements that can help with inflammation, pain, heart health, and more.
Here are Dr. Grossfield’s top three supplements.
Turmeric Supplements
Turmeric is a spice that is a member of the ginger family. Curry powder often contains turmeric. The active portion of turmeric is curcumin (Curcuma longa). Turmeric treats inflammation and has various anti-carcinogenic properties. The anti-inflammatory and free radical-scavenging properties of curcumin have been well documented.
Curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties due to its suppression activation of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer that activate B cells, which induces various inflammatory stimuli. It has been shown scientifically and published to decrease the level of serum markers for interleukin IL-1B, IL-6, and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate.
Turmeric is safe for most adults. High doses or long term use can cause indigestion, nausea or diarrhea. Patients with gallbladder disease should avoid Turmeric because it can worsen the condition. The recommended dosing as an antioxidant is 500 mg per day. The maximum recommended dose is 2000 mg per day.
Glucosamine with Chondroitin Supplements
Glucosamine and chondroitin are part of normal cartilage. They are part of the building blocks of what makes up articular cartilage in your body. Glucosamine and chondroitin come in tablet, capsule, powder, and liquid forms. Dr. Grossfield has had many patients state that this supplement helps to reduce their arthritic symptoms. Several studies completed at the NIH suggest that glucosamine with chondroitin may help reduce the symptoms of arthritis.
The recommended dose is 1500 mg daily of the glucosamine and 800 mg to 1200 mg daily for the chondroitin. They can be taken once daily or they can be divided into 2-3 equal doses.
Fish Oil
Fish oil is the best source of omega–three fatty acids ( EPA and DHA), which block inflammatory cytokines and prostaglandins. They are converted by the body into powerful anti-inflammatory chemicals called resolvins. Fish oil is an essential fatty acid our body needs to function properly. There have been some soft data that suggests that fish oil will help to reduce the effects of osteoarthritis on the knee joint. Several studies performed on animals show a positive effect on arthritis when fish oil is ingested.
We do know that fish oil has an excellent cardiac protective effect because it lowers blood triglycerides that circulate in the bloodstream, protecting against heart disease and reducing high blood pressure. There is data that suggests that fish oil may be helpful with arthritis. It may be worth trying fish oil as a supplement to improve your joint health if you have arthritis. The recommended dosing of fish oil supplements is 2500 mg twice a day: up to 5000mg per day.
Dr. Stacie Grossfeld has decades of experience helping patients manage pain and injuries. If you are concerned about an injury you have developed, you deserve the best care possible. For more information on injury treatment and surgery, please contact Dr. Stacie Grossfeld and the Orthopaedic Specialists at 502-212-2663.
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