Glucosamine, Fish Oil & Curcumin

What are Glucosamine, Fish Oil and Curcumin?

There is no cure for arthritis, but various treatments can relieve joint inflammation and pain. Glucosamine, fish oil and curcumin are supplements that have shown scientific evidence of their benefit and are often recommended as part of the treatment regimen for different types of arthritis. These supplements can reduce the need for pain medicine and have minimal side effects. Talk to your doctor before starting on any supplement.

Benefits of Glucosamine

Glucosamine is a natural substance present in connective tissue. It has anti-inflammatory properties and helps with cartilage formation, repair and protection. Glucosamine is available as an oral supplement, and can be used to treat osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease.

Benefits of Fish Oil

Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) found in fatty fish such as mackerel, salmon and anchovies, and in certain seed and nut oils have remarkable anti-inflammatory properties, and are used to manage osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. They may also be beneficial to your heart. Omega-3 fatty acids are not produced by your body and should be supplemented in the diet. Fish oil supplements allow you to increase your intake and are a good option for those who do not like to eat fish. This supplement can increase blood clotting time, so you should inform your doctor if you are already on blood thinning medication.

Benefits of Curcumin

Turmeric is used in cooking to provide flavour and colour. Curcumin is an ingredient of turmeric that has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It constitutes only about 3% of turmeric so you may not receive enough by just adding turmeric to your diet. Curcumin supplements are available as 200 mg to 1000 mg pills to help you increase your intake. They are used in the management of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Supplements form part of a comprehensive treatment plan for arthritis, which can include other medications, exercise, physical therapy, a healthy diet, joint injections or surgery, depending on the severity of your condition. Response to a supplement can vary from person-to-person and it usually takes a few weeks to see results. You should discontinue use if you have no improvement within six weeks or if you experience any adverse effects.