Supplements
Boswellia
Clinical trials have demonstrated that boswellic acids have anti-inflammatory action similar to that of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). However, unlike NSAIDS, long-term use of boswellia does not appear to lead to irritation or ulceration of the stomach.
So how does boswellic acid actually work?
The anti-inflammatory activity is the result of the inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase-1. Both are enzymes that contribute to inflammatory responses in our bodies. Boswellia also has potential analgesic (pain relief) properties as it has been shown to inhibit nuclear transcription factor KappaB (NF-KappaB) signaling.
Bromelain
Bromelain is an enzyme extracted from the stem of the pineapple plant (Ananas comosus) that is thought to have anti-inflammatory effects as well as edema-inhibiting actions, and that may slow blood clotting. Bromelain is used in both folk and modern medicine to help relieve pain.
When taken orally, bromelain can act as an anti-inflammatory. It is used to help address swelling after injury or surgery; minimize muscle soreness after intense exercise; relieve pain related to arthritis and knee concerns; and treat symptoms related to hay fever, sinusitis, gout, bruises, ulcerative colitis, tendonitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
People taking antibiotics or medications, herbs or supplements that slow blood clotting should consult with their physician before taking bromelain to avoid adverse reaction.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin is found naturally in your body. It’s a vital part of cartilage, giving it elasticity by helping it retain water.
Laboratory studies have found that chondroitin can reduce the activity of enzymes and substances that break down collagen in joints. Other studies have demonstrated that it has several anti-inflammatory properties. Research on animals has found that chondroitin can prevent the breakdown of cartilage and can also stimulate repair mechanisms.
Chondroitin is a complex sugar produced from the cartilage of cows, pigs and sharks. You can buy chondroitin capsules from pharmacies and supermarkets. It’s usually sold in combination with glucosamine sulfate.
Ginger.
Ginger has staring potential for treating a number of ailments including degenerative disorders (arthritis and rheumatism), digestive health (indigestion, constipation and ulcer), cardiovascular disorders (atherosclerosis and hypertension), vomiting, diabetes mellitus, and cancer. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties for controlling the process of aging. Furthermore, it has antimicrobial potential as well which can help in treating infectious disease.
MSM.
MSM stands for methylsulfonylmethane. Methylsulfonylmethane is the oxidized form of dimethyl sulfoxide, an organic sulfur compound formed from lignan. It’s also known as dimethyl sulfone (methyl sulfone) or DMSO2.
This organic sulfur-containing compound naturally occurs in some green vegetables and other food products, plus it’s found in the human body, in many animals, and in milk. It’s also a natural substance made from phytoplankton in the oceans.
It’s often used to make joint health supplements due to its anti-inflammatory effects.
Many benefits of MSM dietary supplements are attributed to its biologically active sulfur, which is the fourth most plentiful mineral in the human body. Sulfur is needed for many different critical bodily functions every single day, and MSM is considered a sulfur donor.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are important because they play a central role in nearly every aspect of health. In fact, omega-3 fatty acids benefits range from decreased inflammation to improved brain health, lower triglyceride levels, better sleep and beyond.
Vitamin D
According to one report from Food & Nutrition Research, up to 41.6% of Americans are vitamin D deficient.5 Studies have long-established a connection between low vitamin D and a variety of inflammatory diseases. Further, researchers know that improving vitamin D can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Beyond its critical function in calcium homeostasis, vitamin D has been found to play an important role in the modulation of the immune/inflammation system via regulating the production of inflammatory cytokines and inhibiting proinflammatory cells, both of which are crucial for the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases. Several studies have associated lower vitamin D status with increased risk and unfavorable outcome of acute infections. Chronic inflammatory diseases, such as atherosclerosis-related cardiovascular disease, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic kidney disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and others, tend to have lower vitamin D status, which may play a pleiotropic role in the pathogenesis of the diseases.
Probiotics.
Probiotics provide healthy flora for your gut biome.
Nourishing our gut biome is essential to achieving and maintaining health. Probiotics not only reduce inflammation, but they are foundational to a flourishing, balanced, and healthy gut.
Prebiotics.
Prebiotics are types of fiber that feed the friendly bacteria in the digestive system.
Nourishing your gut biome with probiotics in partnership with probiotics is an ideal method of maintaining a healthy gut.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid (HA), the main component of extracellular matrix, is considered one of the key players in the tissue regeneration process. It has been proven to modulate via specific HA receptors, inflammation, cellular migration, and angiogenesis, which are the main phases of wound healing.
This is a must if joint issues such as arthritis are plaguing you. Naturally occurring in your body, HA adds lubrication to your skin, hair, and joints.