Vitamin D best supplement for joints

Dr Ellie on why people should be taking Vitamin D supplements

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

According to Claire, vitamin D is the best nutrient to take this winter. She explained: “Whilst there are many nutrients for aches and pains you can look to take, Vitamin D is perhaps the most important in the run-up to Christmas.

“With 90% of our Vitamin D produced from the sun, just 10 to 15 minutes exposure in the glorious summer sun is enough to keep your Vitamin D levels topped up. In contrast, in winter, it is virtually impossible.

“With a huge reduction to the suns power and less exposed skin as we cover up, supplements are the only reliable Vitamin D source and critical to take at this time of year.

“Plus, it can help support the immune system and your mood.”

However, vitamin D isn’t a silver bullet. There are other nutrients which can help improve joint health.

Claire said: “While there are many different types of joint pain, the most common issues are associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.

“Depending on the source of your joint pain, you may need different nutrients, medication, physical therapy, or surgery to treat the issue.

“Natural supplements can complement these treatments by helping to slow down progression and reduce pain, with the most researched of these being curcumin, omega 3 fatty acids, Glucosamine & Chondroitin and Vitamin D.”

She added: “This research highlights that people with lower levels of Vitamin D are more susceptible to joint pain.

“Vitamin D is required to absorb calcium and to enable bone regeneration. It’s important to combine Vitamin D3 with Vitamin K2 helps to manage where that calcium ends up.”

Alongside vitamin D, vitamin C is recommended by Claire as a nutrient to boost joint health: “Vitamin C has been shown to help protect against inflammatory joint problems such as Rheumatoid Arthritis.

“It helps maintain collagen and connective tissue, for those with early onset symptoms of Osteoarthritis. If taking a Vitamin C then it is advisable to look for a high absorption liquid Liposomal form due to its efficacy, as opposed to tablet forms with a lower absorption rate.”

As well as maintaining a balanced diet, there are other ways to reduce joint pain this Christmas, one of these includes keeping the joints as free from chill as possible.

Claire expanded on this further: “As we enter the colder months and the lead-up to the stressful Christmas period, we are become less active, so keeping your muscles and joints warm and mobile is important to prevent stiffness and loss of mobility.

“I recommend doing some simple daily stretches or head outside for a brisk walk. Carrying extra weight can increase joint pain issues, so it is important to continue to maintain a balanced diet of fruit, vegetables, fibre, and protein, even during the festive season.

“Stress is another factor which can exacerbate joint problems as it releases chemicals that can trigger inflammation and tightening of the muscles. Try to avoid stressful situations, treat yourself to a massage, find a good book to read and keep to your bedtime routine so you get properly rested.”

As a result, there is a multitude of preventative measures people can take to reduce their risk of joint pain this Christmas.

However, when it comes to vitamin D and other supplements, it is important to remember that while these tablets are beneficial that it is far better to try and boost your levels through the food you eat.

Examples of food high in vitamin D include oily fish, red meat, liver, egg yolks, and fortified foods.

More information on how to get the best balance from the food you eat can be found via your GP.

Source: Read Full Article