You know turmeric for the spiciness it adds to your foods, but did you know this delicious spice can also help ease your joint pain? The main chemical in turmeric called curcumin is responsible for the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric.
Every person is different, but this supplement often helps ease joint pain. Here’s how turmeric for joint pain works!
Curcumin Fights Inflammation
Joint pain is often due to inflammation in the joints. Anti-inflammatory over-the-counter meds may help temporarily, but they aren’t a cure. They put a Band-aid on the problem, but when the meds wear off, the pain is back.
Curcumin inhibits NF-kB, which creates the inflammatory response in your body. Several studies have been done to see the effects of turmeric on the joints and the results are promising.
Each of the studies conducted, one published in Phytonutrient Research and another in the Journal of Medicinal Food, showed reduced joint pain in most patients compared to those who took a placebo.
Turmeric vs Ibuprofen
Many people automatically turn to ibuprofen to relieve their joint pain and it may work temporarily. But before has many other side effects and may even cause liver or stomach damage.
Consuming turmeric up to 3 times a day is equivalent to 1,200 milligrams of ibuprofen but without the side effects. Each person can tolerate (and needs) a different dosage, always consult with your doctor before taking a new supplement.
Choosing the Right Supplements
When looking for turmeric for joint pain, unfortunately, sprinkling the spice on your food won’t do the trick. There isn’t enough curcumin in the spice to make a difference in your joint pain. Instead, take the supplements.
Like any supplements, there are many options. Look for those that say standardized to 95% curcuminoids. It should also contain black pepper extract.
Before you take any supplements, though, talk to your healthcare provider. While it doesn’t have many contraindications, it can interfere if you have gallstones or take certain prescription medications.
Other Ways to Help Joint Pain
While taking turmeric may alleviate some of your joint pain, it may take a while. Plus, like any supplement, it helps to change your lifestyle to give the supplements the best chance at alleviating your symptoms.
Ideally, to relieve joint pain, you should incorporate the Mediterranean diet into your lifestyle. This diet helps reduce inflammation thanks to the plant compounds found in nutrient-rich foods. Since the diet is high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts, it gives your body the nutrients it needs to fight inflammation.
Bottom Line
Don’t suffer from joint pain needlessly. Listen to your body and give it what it needs. Turmeric is a great supplement that most people can take without issue but always talk to your doctor first. If you can tolerate it and combine it with a healthy lifestyle, such as following the Mediterranean diet, you’ll inhibit the inflammation and say goodbye to joint pain.
Are you suffering from joint pain and have questions about YOUR specific pain? For more information, please contact TORQ PT at (856)-360-5630 or apply for a Free Discovery Visit!
