
After a long run, do your knees hurt? It is a problem that a lot of runners are facing these days. Overuse injuries, wear and tear, and inflammation are some of the reasons that cause joint problems and their symptoms include pain, stiffness, and a limited range of motion. The good news is that there are supplements available on the market that might help you to improve your joint health by lowering inflammation, making it more flexible, and absorbing more nutrients. If you use the best joint health supplement according to your needs you could keep running without joint discomfort and your joints will remain healthy.
Why Joint Health Supplements are Important for Runners
Runners need joint supplements because they could help reduce cracking and stiffness, give the joints the strength and nutrients they need, and make it easier for the joints to move. Most people take glucosamine and chondroitin for their joints. Chondroitin helps reduce joint pain and improve joint movement, while glucosamine helps reduce joint inflammation and promote cartilage growth. Omega-3 fatty acids, ginger, and collagen are also common supplements for joints that may help reduce inflammation and support joint health. Runners can protect their joints from damage and keep them healthy for years to come by taking joint supplements.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a type of amino sugar that can be found naturally in cartilage. It supports joint health by reducing inflammation, managing pain, and providing joint strength.
It promotes the production of cartilage, which is crucial for individuals engaging in high-impact physical activities such as running. Crystalline Glucosamine boasts anti-inflammatory properties and allows joints to move freely. Furthermore, studies have shown that glucosamine supplements might help in managing the discomfort. This supplement is highly effective in promoting joint health by reducing the rate of joint degeneration.
Sources: Sources of Glucosamine includes:
- Shellfish such as crabs, lobsters, and shrimp
- Glucosamine supplement
Recommended Dosage: 1,250–1,500mg per day for good results
Advantage: it might provide the following benefits, which includes:
- Slow down joint deterioration
- Improved joint health
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Improve joint strength
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is one of the most well-known joint health supplements that aid the body in absorbing calcium and phosphorus. For runners, vitamin D is an essential supplement to keep their joints healthy during running.
There are many joint problems that can be caused due to the deficiency of vitamin D. Basically, the main function of vitamin D is to make your bones strong, which might reduce the risk of injury and other joint issues. To prevent joint discomfort, runners may think about taking vitamin D.
Sources: The major source of vitamin D is the Sun which provides many individuals with all the vitamin D they need. However, during the winter, persons in the north may need to take supplements. Other options include:
- Fortified milk
- Yogurt
- Orange juice
- Egg yolk
- Fish
- Shellfish
- Cereals.
Recommended Dosage: For persons aged 1 to 70, 600 international units (IU) of vitamin D are recommended, and for those above 70, 800 IU.
Advantage: it might provide the following benefits, which includes:
- Improve the absorption of Calcium and Phosphorus
- Make bones stronger
- Improve joint health
Omega-3 fatty acid
Omega-3 fatty acid is among very important supplements for healthy joints. Omega-3 supplements have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that may lessen delayed onset muscle pain and enhance blood flow, resulting in a faster recovery time. Well-oiled, healthy muscles can reduce the chances of injuries and prevent joint stiffness.
According to one study, those who took fish oil supplements had less stiff and sore joints after exercise and had a greater range of motion.
Sources: Sources of Omega-3 fatty acids include:
- Oily fish, such as salmon, herring, and sardines
- Chia seeds
- Walnuts
- Flax seeds
Recommended Dosage: 1.6 grams for males & 1.1 grams for females.
Advantage: Following are the advantages of omega-3 fatty acids:
- Enhance muscle recovery
- Reduce inflammation in the area of sore joints.
- Maintain joint lubrication
- Boost Bone and joint health
Conclusion
In conclusion, joint health supplements play a vital role in alleviating knee discomfort and promoting overall joint health for runners. By incorporating the best joint health supplement into your routine, you can effectively reduce inflammation, enhance flexibility, and absorb essential nutrients. Glucosamine, with its anti-inflammatory properties and cartilage-promoting abilities, supports joint strength and manages discomfort. Vitamin D aids in calcium absorption, strengthens bones and prevents joint issues. Omega-3 fatty acids offer anti-inflammatory benefits, aiding in muscle recovery and maintaining joint lubrication. With the right joint health supplements, you can protect your joints, minimize the risk of injuries, and enjoy pain-free running for years to come.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is only meant for educational purposes and cannot be used in place of advice from a qualified medical expert. Any dietary supplements discussed in this text are not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or even aid in the treatment of any condition. It is strongly advised that you speak with a qualified medical practitioner before taking any of the dietary supplements listed above.