How to Improve Joint Health

Your joints can experience a lot of stress, especially if you are athletic or have osteoarthritis. Healthy nutrition and exercise can give your joints a boost and keep them healthy. There are also many supplements you can take to improve joint health and function.

Things You'll Need

• Glucosamine chondroitin
• Essential fatty acids
• MSM supplement
• Bromelain

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Instructions

• 1

  Take a glucosamine chondroitin supplement daily. It will take a while to build up sufficient levels in your body, so be sure to take it consistently. Glucosamine and chondroitin are like building blocks for your cartilage and help keep your joints lubricated.

• 2

  Add essential fatty acids such as omega-3s to your diet. They are naturally anti-inflammatory, which help reduce joint pain. You can either purchase a supplement, such as fish oil or evening primrose oil, or eat foods that are naturally rich in omega-3s, such as fish, nuts and seeds.

• 3

  Try taking an MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) supplement. MSM has anti-inflammatory properties and also helps relieve pain. Take 1,000 to 3,000 milligrams per day. The only known side effect of MSM is gas, in higher doses, until your body becomes acclimated to the supplement.

• 4

  Take a bromelain supplement daily. Bromelain is an enzyme that is naturally found in pineapples, and is helpful for treating joint pain and inflammation. Unfortunately, the majority of bromelain in pineapple is found in the stem, so it's best to take a supplement.

• 5

  Engage in gentle, daily exercise. Be careful not to hurt your joints further, but stretching, yoga, tai chi and walking can help work out the stiffness in your joints and keep them healthy by building the muscle around the joints.