Most of us give little thought to how our body's systems and functions work until there's a problem. When all seems to be going well, we turn our attention to topics, hobbies, and issues that most interest us. When something goes wrong with our bodies, however, that's when we start investigating how things are supposed to be working and what we can do to get things back on track.

If your joints have been giving you pain, you may have started looking for the best supplements to help your body manage your symptoms and potentially even repair them.  If that's you, read on. We're here to help you understand the potential factors behind your joint pain and suggest the best supplements to support your body and help it fight back. 

What Factors Lead to Joint Pain?

A wide variety of factors can potentially lead to joint pain. Among them, these are three of the top causes behind most people's pain.

Injury

Any injury to the ligaments, bursae, or tendons surrounding the joint can lead to joint pain. If you can't think of a recent injury, that doesn't mean injury is necessarily off the table as a root cause.

Injuries don't always result from single, traumatic events; sometimes they arise from simple, repetitive motions. When assessing yourself for potential injuries, carefully think through both your recent history and daily routines.

Inflammation

Chronic conditions such as arthritis (whether rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis) can explain the sort of inflammation that causes joint pain.  With about one-third of all adults reporting joint pain within the last thirty days, it's likely that undiagnosed inflammation could be a major root cause.

Age

Though joint pain is not necessarily inevitable with age, joint pain often correlates with aging. If you find that you're dealing with aching joints as you're getting older, the time may be right to look into which supplements could best help you manage your joint pain.

Supplements for Joint Health

Whether you're currently suffering joint pain or just looking for ways to maintain good joint health, here are a few vitamins and minerals that would be worth taking as supplements. Of course, you'll always want to check first with a doctor to see which supplements would be best for you.

Glucosamine

Glucosamine is a natural chemical compound produced within your own body. When taken as a supplement, however, it has shown to help maintain the health of your cartilage.

If you're looking for a supplement that may ease your joint pain, glucosamine might be worth a try. Some studies show it gives relief for mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis, and it may work for other joints, too. (WebMD)

Most natural food sources wouldn't provide enough glucosamine to make a difference; so if you're looking to increase your intake, you're likely looking for a supplement. 

Turmeric

Often recommended to treat generalized pain, turmeric contains a chemical compound called curcumin, often linked with pain relief. Recent clinical trials have provided "scientific evidence that supports the efficacy of turmeric extract (about 1000 mg/day of curcumin) in the treatment of arthritis." Since turmeric is a spice, cooking with it and including it in meals is always an option, and it's particularly effective when consumed with fat and oils.

Vitamin D

Our bodies produce vitamin D when exposed to ultraviolet light; however, many people spend at least part of the year being vitamin D deficient due to lack of exposure to natural sunlight. If you live in a climate with seasonal drops in daylight hours, you may want to consider taking a vitamin D supplement to bolster your musculoskeletal health and support your joints.  

Omega 3

Omega 3 fatty acids have been demonstrated to reduce inflammation (and therefore pain) in joints. They're most often consumed through fish oils.

One-to-three grams of fish oil each day can help reduce the intensity of joint symptoms like morning stiffness, tenderness, swelling, and discomfort. The omega-3 fatty acids present in this amount can also increase blood flow throughout the body during exercise, which can help reduce joint pain and swelling. (UPMC)

Any supplement that boosts consumption of Omega 3 fatty acids has a chance of reducing your joint pain.

The Best Supplements to Manage Joint Pain

If you're looking for supplements that combine the best of these elements to help promote joint health, we have two to recommend.

Movexa

A 100% natural joint support supplement, Movexa is a once-a-day dose designed to treat joint pain associated with arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other rheumatic conditions. Along with Glucosamine Sulfate (the benefits of which are detailed above), Movexa is also packed with other vitamins and minerals specifically selected to treat joint pain and promote musculoskeletal health.

These include (but are not limited to) the following:

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin B-1
• Niacinamide
• Yucca Extract
• Alfalfa Powder
• Zinc

Adding Movexa to your daily intake gives you a shot at lowering your levels of joint pain and increasing your overall health. 

Equalize

Though designed primarily as an immune system booster, daily multivitamin booster Equalize is packed with supplemental doses of the same vitamins and minerals that help combat inflammation and other root causes for joint pain. This includes Vitamin D, which is mentioned above as a great way to boost musculoskeletal health and support your joints.

Equalize also includes doses of the following:

• Zinc
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin B-12
• Biotin

As an immune system booster, Equalize can also assist your body in fighting off common cold symptoms, flu strains, and even COVID-19. 

We Can Help

Here at Eden Formulations, our team is ready and willing to support your health journey. Led by Dr. Van Veloso, we are committed to helping you live a longer, healthier life.

If you have further questions about joint pain, or if you would like to learn more about our premium products or services, please feel free to contact us at any time. We look forward to hearing more about what's troubling you and helping you chart a path to a healthier future.

With the use of vitamins and supplements added to your diet, you are able to take on inflammation in the joints much easier.

You've been curled up on the sofa, watching your favorite TV show. You stretch to stand up and your back makes an audible "crack." Or, you're walking up the stairs in your home, and with each step your knees "pop." Does this sound familiar?

You may be wondering why your joints pop. Is this normal? And could a vitamin deficiency play a role?

Three Reasons Your Joints Make Noise

Hearing your joints make noise when you move can be alarming. Noisy joints, which is officially called "crepitus," is not that uncommon, though. People of all ages can hear a "pop," "crackle," or "snap" sound when they move. The knees, ankles, back, and neck most commonly make noises.

There are typically three reasons why a joint makes noise during movement:

1. There is a liquid called synovial fluid in your joints. When you move, tiny bubbles in the synovial fluid can form and pop, creating the noise you hear. This is normal and harmless.
2. Tendons move and ligaments tighten in your knees and ankles when you walk, run, or climb stairs. This movement can create noise.
3. The loss of smooth cartilage in a joint due to arthritis can lead to rough surfaces within the joint.  You may be hearing the resulting grinding or scraping.

By themselves, joint popping and other noises are usually not a reason for concern. However, if you are experiencing pain, swelling, or other discomfort in that joint, you may have an underlying health condition or injury that needs to be addressed.

The Link Between Vitamin Deficiency and Joint Health

According to the Arthritis Foundation and the National Institute of Health, there are certain vitamins and minerals that play an important role in joint health. Being deficient in these vitamins and minerals can increase joint pain and discomfort:

Vitamin A is best known for maintaining healthy eyesight, but it also supports bone growth.

Vitamin B-12 reduces the amount of an amino acid called homocysteine. The amount of homocysteine found in the body tends to increase as a person ages. Higher levels of homocysteine are found in people with RA and can also lead to bone loss and fractures.

Vitamin C is an antioxidant. It also helps build and maintain connective tissue, which is found in cartilage and bones throughout the body.

Manganese is needed for bone formation.

Selenium may prevent rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and is also beneficial for your immune system.

Zinc is needed for cell production and tissue growth. Healthy levels of zinc may reduce rheumatoid arthritis symptoms by supporting cartilage.

In a perfect world, we would all eat three healthy meals a day. However, we know that in reality, this doesn't always happen. And some medications and medical conditions can create a deficiency in vitamins, no matter how healthy someone is eating. That's where all-natural supplements can play an important role in joint health.

What to Look for in a Joint Health Supplement

Most vitamins and minerals can be purchased individually. However, to take all the vitamins and minerals you would need for optimum joint health would be expensive. Not to mention, you'd be taking a handful of pills every day. The best approach is to look for a comprehensive joint health supplement.

There is a dizzying array of joint supplements on the market today. How can you be sure you're selecting the best one for you? Here are some things to consider:

• Is the supplement made in the U.S., with good manufacturing practices (GPM)?
• What is the customer service like? Is there a phone number you can call with questions?,
• Is there any type of guarantee or return policy? If the supplement doesn't help ease your joint pain, can you return it, even if the bottle is open?
• What do the reviews say? How is the product rated? You can read joint health product reviews on websites like Better Health and Wellness.

The Benefits of All-Natural Supplements

Anyone experiencing joint noises accompanied by pain have several options. Over the counter (OTC) medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen are inexpensive and for sale in every grocery store and convenience store around. But over time, these medications may cause stomach ulcers, liver damage, and kidney problems.

Prescription medications are also an option, but these are not without possible side effects, either. Some painkillers prescribed by doctors are opioids. This particular class of medication may lead to dependence or addiction in some people.

People living with joint pain from arthritis and other conditions are often advised to take a calcium supplement. But increasing your calcium intake is only half the battle, because a vitamin deficiency can result in poor calcium absorption. In order for your body to get the most benefit from calcium, you also need adequate amounts of vitamin D. And here in the U.S., many people are vitamin D deficient.

Sources of Vitamin D

Your body produces vitamin D when you're out in the sun, so it's often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin." People who live farther from the equator and receive less year-round sunlight are more likely to be deficient.

And it's difficult for most people to get enough vitamin D from food alone. Some sources include:

• Vitamin D fortified foods like cow's milk, soy milk, orange juice, and breakfast cereals
• Fish like salmon, herring, sardines, and tuna
• Eggs
• Cod Liver oil
• Alfalfa

Alfalfa may come as a surprise. Many people automatically think this food is only for livestock, but alfalfa has been used for centuries by people for its medicinal and nutritional properties. Not only is alfalfa a rich source of vitamin D, but it also contains vitamins A, E, and K.

How common is vitamin D deficiency in the U.S.?

Estimates vary on how many people in the U.S. are deficient in vitamin D. One article published by the National Library of Medicine puts the number at 42% of the U.S. population.

Today in the U.S., most brands of cow's milk are fortified with vitamin D. This is beneficial because many people drink cow's milk regularly. And as mentioned earlier, your body needs the vitamin D in order to absorb the calcium found in milk.

The history behind vitamin D being added to cow's milk is an interesting one. At the turn of the 20th century, rickets was a common condition in children. The Industrial Revolution was in full swing, and more children were spending time indoors working, away from the sun.  At its peak, the condition was a public health crisis: in Boston, 80% of children reportedly had rickets.

Rickets is caused by a prolonged deficiency in vitamin D that results in the body not absorbing enough calcium. Having rickets causes soft and weakening bones. By the 1930s, the link between vitamin D and calcium was acknowledged. Vitamin D was then routinely added to cow's milk sold in stores. While rickets is very rare in the U.S. today, being deficient in vitamin D is not.

Signs of a Vitamin D Deficiency

Your vitamin D level can be detected by a simple blood test in your doctor's office. Signs that you may not be getting enough of this vitamin are:

• Getting sick often
• Being more tired than usual
• Bone pain
• Feeling depressed
• Slow wound healing
• Bone loss
• Muscle pain

The Link Between Vitamin D and Joint Health

Your bones consist of collagen that is hardened by calcium and phosphorus. If you were to look at the cross section of a healthy bone, you would see dense, web-like fibers. As bone loss occurs, these fibers become less dense, resulting in more empty space.

Bones are considered "living" tissue. There is a natural cycle of bone loss and buildup that occurs throughout our entire lifetime, not just in our childhoods. But as we age, bone loss can outpace bone growth.

When bone loss is severe, conditions like osteopenia and osteoporosis develop. In both of these conditions, bones become weak and more susceptible to fractures. That's where supplements and a healthy lifestyle can play an important role in keeping your bones healthy.

One of the best ways to support your bones is to be active. Weight bearing activities like walking, dancing, gardening, and using the stairs slow the mineral loss in your bones. But how can you be active when you are experiencing bone and muscle pain, not to mention feeling depressed and having low energy? That's where a supplement containing vitamin D may be beneficial.

Taking a supplement that contains vitamin D can result in:

• Better calcium absorption, which in turns helps with overall bone health
• Reduced joint and muscle pain, allowing you to exercise and be more active
• Improved mood, resulting in increased energy and motivation

Choosing a Supplement for Joint Pain

In addition to vitamin D and calcium, there are other vitamins, minerals, and all-natural substances that are beneficial to bone health.

• Vitamin A supports bone growth.
• Vitamin B-12 reduces the amount of an amino acid called homocysteine, which tends to increase as a person ages. Higher levels of homocysteine are found in people with RA and can also lead to bone loss and fractures.
• Boron supports strong bones and helps maintain muscle coordination.
• Vitamin C helps build and maintain connective tissue, which is found in cartilage and bones throughout the body.
• Vitamin D is necessary for proper calcium absorption.
• Chondroitin sulfate helps maintain healthy cartilage.
• Devil's Claw may result in decreased pain and increased flexibility in joints.
• Glucosamine sulfate helps connective tissue maintain its elasticity and cushioning properties.
• Manganese is needed for bone formation.
• Selenium may prevent rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
• Yucca schidigera has anti-arthritic properties that have been known for years and used in folk remedies.
• Zealand Green Lip Mussels may ease joint pain by decreasing inflammation.

If you're overwhelmed by this list, don't be! The best joint pain supplements on the market contain most, if not all, of these beneficial substances. You can learn more about all-natural joint supplements in the online publication, Better Health and Wellness.

Top-Rated Joint Pain Supplements

It's important to read customer reviews before choosing a joint pain supplement. What are people saying about the product? How long does it take the supplement to work? Does the company provide any type of guarantee?

Movexa by Eden Formulations is a top-rated, all-natural supplement that promotes healthy joints. It contains alfalfa powder, which is a plant-based, rich source of the vitamin D, along with other vitamins and minerals that your body needs to stay active and pain-free. To learn more about joint health and Movexa, contact us today.

 

Knee pain is both common and debilitating. In a study published by the Annals of Internal Medicine, it was found that 25% of adults experience knee pain. The causes of this pain are varied, as are the ways people choose to find relief. More and more people are looking at natural remedies, including vitamins and supplements to help ease the pain and get moving again.

Common Causes of Knee Pain

There are many reasons people experience knee pain. And in some cases, there is more than one factor or medical condition to blame.

Being overweight. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 42.4% of adults are considered obese. Being overweight puts additional stress on your knee joints, even when doing everyday activities like walking or using the stairs.

Old injuries. For some people, the pain after an injury is chronic. Even if it's been many years since you experienced a fracture in a car accident or tore your ACL while running, you may still be experiencing pain now.

Osteoarthritis, which is often called "wear and tear" arthritis. It occurs when the cartilage between bones breaks down or is damaged. While getting older increases your chances of developing osteoarthritis, it can occur in people of all ages.

Fibromyalgia. This chronic health condition can cause pain and tenderness throughout the body, including the knee joints.

Whatever caused your knee pain, there is no question that it interferes with your life and maybe even your job. Pain can prevent you from being active and doing the things you love. Anyone experiencing knee pain has several options for pain relief.

Knee Pain Remedies

Some people with knee pain prefer to treat themselves with self-care measures at home. Others will consult with their physicians. And some will do a combination of the two to find relief.

Over the Counter (OTC) Pain Relievers

OTC pain medications like acetaminophen, aspirin, naproxen, or ibuprofen are inexpensive and easy to obtain. For most people, occasionally using these medications is fine. However, long-term use or taking more than the recommended amount may lead to stomach problems, ulcers, kidney damage.

Prescription Pain Relievers

Some people who have knee pain will see their doctor for prescription medications. Some of these drugs, like oxycodone or Vicodin, are opioids. In addition to relieving pain, opioids can produce a pleasurable feeling or a "high." For this reason, some people may become addicted to prescription opioids over time.

Ice/Heat/Rest

Depending on the cause of your knee pain, applying ice or heat may help. In addition, so can resting the knee and elevating it. However, one has to be careful not to "baby" their knee when some exercise and movement could in fact be beneficial.

Topical Medications

Many people turn to creams, ointments, and patches for their knee pain. These medications provide pain relief without the adverse effects that oral medications can cause. These medications are available both OTC and with a prescription. Common brand names for topical medications that relieve knee pain are Bengay, Icy Hot, Tiger Balm, Voltaren, Aspercreme, and Capzasin. The pain-relieving effects of topical medications may be short-lived. In addition, some creams and ointments have a strong odor.

Vitamins & Supplements

High quality vitamins and supplements may be effective in easing knee pain. They work in part by supporting the body's natural functions, without simply "masking" the pain. These products can be purchased without a prescription and are often reasonably priced, considering the benefits.

Many people turn to vitamins and supplements because they desire a more natural approach to their health. A potential downside to supplements is that pain relief may not be experienced right away. It can take some time and patience to experience the full benefits of a natural supplement.

Vitamins and Supplements for Healthy Knee Joints

Before discussing natural treatments for knee pain, it is helpful to know exactly what a vitamin or supplement is.

• The simplest definition of a vitamin is that it is a substance your body needs for normal cell function.
• A supplement can add nutrients to your diet or help lower your risk of certain health conditions. A supplement can contain vitamins, minerals, herbs, plants, and ingredients from other natural sources, like animals.

Both vitamins and minerals are available as tablets, capsules, powders, and liquids.

If you have any questions about a vitamin or supplement, including whether it will adversely interact with any other supplements or medications you're currently taking, you should consult with your doctor.

There are several vitamins and natural substances that may ease knee pain for some people. It would be expensive and cumbersome to purchase all of these ingredients individually. You can get the most "bang for your buck" by taking Movexa, a 100% natural joint support supplement.

Top-Rated Knee Pain Supplement

Better Health and Wellness has reviewed and rated some of the joint support supplements on the market today. Their number one choice was Movexa, which they called "The most effective natural joint supplement we tested."

Movexa takes some of the best vitamins, minerals, and natural pain-relieving substances in the world and puts them in one, easy-to-take tablet.

• Some of the chemicals found in New Zealand Green Lip Mussels may ease knee pain by decreasing inflammation. However, many of us cannot afford or do not have access to this fresh shellfish! Taking a supplement containing these mussels is the next best thing.
• Yucca schidigera is a plant native to Mexico. It's potential anti-arthritic properties have been known for years and used in folk remedies.
• Glucosamine sulfate helps connective tissue maintain its elasticity and cushioning properties.
• Chondroitin sulfate helps maintain healthy cartilage.
• Vitamin B-12 supports the development of nerves and blood cells.
• Devil's Claw may result in decreased pain and increased flexibility in the knee joint.
• Boron supports strong bones and helps maintain muscle coordination.

Movexa is an all natural supplement. No side effects have been reported by anyone taking this supplement. However, people with a shellfish allergy should not take Movexa, as it contains mussels. If you have questions about Movexa, please contact us to learn more.

 

 

 

Unlinked Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/knee-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20350849

https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/osteoarthritis.htm

https://www.healthline.com/health/fibromyalgia

https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/pain-medication-side-effects#2

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-830/new-zealand-green-lipped-mussel

Joint Support eBook

Vitamin definition, https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002399.htm