Most of us at one time or another have had some achy, stiff joints, whether that be due to a heavy workout or the toils of aging. There are natural ways to lessen the pain.

1. Fish oils- omega-3 fatty acids help inflammatory joint pain and can also give us other benefits such as lowering triglycerides, supporting hormone levels, and treating depression. Eat 3 servings of fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines, or tuna) per week or you can use supplements. The dose is 2-4 grams daily.

2. Drink lots of water- about 6 glasses daily. It helps lubricate the joints and flush toxins (which are pro-inflammatory). Filtered or spring water is best and an easy test to see if you’re getting enough is to look at the color of your urine. It should be clear or pale yellow.

3. Lose that weight- in the U.S., obesity is of epidemic proportions. More than 65% of adults are considered overweight. Even an excess of 15 pounds can cause serious strain on our joints. Pain is significantly reduced when weight drops.

4. Glucosamine and Chondroiton sulfate- stimulates cartilage production and prevents it from being broken down. I recommend 3000 milligrams daily.

5. Turmeric- cook with it or take it as a supplement. It’s a wonderful anti-inflammatory. Also, studies have shown that people whose diets are rich in turmeric have a lower incidence of breast, prostate, lung and colon cancers.

6. MSM (methylsulfonylmethane)- a natural occurring sulfur compound that reduces inflammation levels. It also has an antihistamine effect and helps allergy symptoms. The dose is 4500 milligrams per day for acute pain and 2200 milligrams for maintenance.

You can try some of these suggestions, but please see your physician if pain continues or worsens, to look for other causes.

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