Nutritional Supplements for Osteoarthritis

Glucosamine Sulfate and Osteoarthritis

Glucosamine sulfate is a major constituent of cartilage and is the most effective natural remedy for osteoarthritis with its use supported by numerous scientific studies.

One dose of 1000mg per day maintains the integrity of the joint structure and 1500-2000 mg per day reduces the pain and symptoms of osteoarthritis and improves joint damage.

It may take between 1-8 weeks for experienced benefits and the results persist for up to 12 weeks after discontinuation of treatment.

Glucosamine sulfate may need to be administered at low or intermediate doses for maintenance treatment.

Niacinamide and Osteoarthritis

Niacinamide has been found to improve joint function and range of motion in osteoarthritis with significant results after 1-3 months of treatment and peak benefits after 1-3 years of use.

High doses have been used (up to 4000 mg per day in divided doses) but at these doses it is necessary to regularly monitor liver enzymes as they may cause liver damage.

SAME and Osteoarthritis

SAME is involved in the manufacture of cartilage components and supplements have been found to improve cartilage formation and to alleviate mild and anti-inflammatory pain.

Dosage: 400mg, three times a day

Antioxidants and Osteoarthritis

High antioxidant intake can help protect the cartilage and prevent osteoarthritis.

Those with higher vitamin C intake are three times less likely to develop osteoarthritis.

Vitamin E appears to work synergistically with vitamin C in cartilage protection. Other antioxidants may have similar benefits.

Dosage:

Vitamin C: 1000-3000 mg daily

Vitamin E: 400-800 iu daily

Pantothenic Acid and Osteoarthritis

Dosage of 12.5 mg a day is found to help relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, Copper, Zinc and Boron and Osteoarthritis

These vitamins and minerals are also needed for cartilage making and maintenance. Boron supplements have been found to reduce osteoarthritis symptoms in up to 90% of individuals.

Dosage:

Vitamin A: 5000 times a day
Vitamin B6: 50 mg daily
Zinc: 30-45 mg daily
Copper: 1-2 mg a day
Boron: 6 mg daily

DL-Phenylanaline and Osteoarthritis

DL-Phenylanaline increases endorphins in the brain and can be used to relieve symptoms of pain in osteoarthritis.

Dosage: 500-750 mg, three times daily before meals.

Vitamin D and Osteoarthritis

Regular exposure to sunlight promotes the synthesis of vitamin D that is essential to bone health.

How effective are dietary therapies and nutritional supplements for osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a condition that may take years to develop so treatment should be applied consistently to achieve the desired outcome.

There is evidence to show that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can worsen the condition and therefore its use must be carefully considered.

Some improvements may be noted one or two months after initiation of dietary changes and nutritional supplements but complete recovery may take several years. The likelihood of successful outcomes is improved when predisposing factors such as obesity or hormone disorders are adequately addressed.

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