Best supplements for arthritis: A physiotherapist's top recommendation
BEST supplements for arthritis: Are stiff joints in the morning putting a downer on your day? You don't need to grin and bear the side effects of the disease. Here's a physiotherapist's top recommendation.
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Physiotherapist Sammy Margo – who has over 30 years' experience treating patients with chronic joint conditions – stated "early intervention is key," suggesting people who are starting to feel stiff should consider a supplement. "Joint stiffness or pain, especially in the knees or lower back, could be a warning sign for the start of something more serious," said Margo. Alluding to arthritis, Margo continued: "It can affect anyone at any age."
"By adding a supplement to your daily routine, alongside maintaining a well-balanced and varied diet, optimal joint health can be achieved," she added.
Which supplement is best for arthritis?
The charity Versus Arthritis stated rose hip (available in supplement form) has anti-inflammatory priorities.
Evidence suggests rose hip supplementation can relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Rose hip extract contains polyphenols and anthocyanin believed to ease joint inflammation and prevent joint damage.
In addition, the plant extract is also rich in vitamin C - another antioxidant.
READ MORE: Arthritis: Four effective remedies to reduce joint pain and inflammation
Antioxidants can "override harmful molecules" - known as free radicals – that otherwise cause tissue damage and disease.
Research suggests the rose hip can also reduce the production of specific enzymes that break down cartilage.
Mild side effects of rose hip may include: an allergic reaction, constipation, diarrhoea or heartburn.
One trial involved 89 participants with rheumatoid arthritis who were randomly assigned 5g of rose hip powder or placebo, every day, for six months.
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Those who received the rose hip reported greater improvements in quality of life and physical function than the placebo group.
Another ingredient in the supplement is ginger - another extract Versus Arthritis stated helps to reduce pain.
Laboratory and animal studies have documented that ginger extract can reduce the production of chemical substances that promote joint inflammation.
Ginger contains salicylates, which the body transforms into salicylic acid - known to prevent the nerves from making certain prostaglandins.
As a result, this eases pain and discomfort, adding to the reason why ginger extract is a good remedy for arthritis.
Well tolerated by many, if any side effects were going to come about from ingesting ginger it would be an upset stomach and mouth irritation.
The GOPO® Joint Health Plus Ginger – recommended by physiotherapist Margo –contains extracts from the rosa-canina plant (rose hip) and ginger.
"The double anti-inflammatory effects of GOPO® and ginger combined provide targeted relief to safeguard your joints and maintain an active lifestyle," Margo explained.
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Various trials demonstrate the benefits of consuming ginger and rose hip in regards to treating arthritis pain.
However, arthritis isn't the only way a person can experience joint pain.
"Young adults are just as at risk of developing joint conditions from repetitive injuries or over usage," said Margo.
Thus, a rose hip and ginger supplement is a good option for many people.
