Joint Food Supplement

According to Inserm, 93% of French people say they have already suffered from joint pain. With advancing age and intensive sports activities, our skeleton (especially our joints) can be put to the test. However, good daily mobility is essential for our work, our leisure activities or simply our quality of life. Fortunately, the joint food supplement allows you to regain mobility and flexibility!

Why does joint pain occur?

Joints, such as the knees and neck, can be painful and therefore affect daily life, mainly due to the wear and tear of the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones. This cartilage ensures good joint mobility , but with age or intense sporting activity, its production decreases. In addition, the amount of synovial fluid (rich in hyaluronic acid and essential for the proper functioning of the joints) also decreases, increasing the risk of developing osteoarthritis. For athletes or those looking to reduce joint pain, a joint food supplement can offer support through two approaches:

• Short-term approach : For quick relief, ingredients like turmeric (known for the anti-inflammatory properties of its curcumin) are effective. Other herbs like boswellia and mangosteen are also helpful in reducing inflammation.
• Long-term approach : To strengthen cartilage, opt for supplements containing collagen (type II collagen peptides, specific to joints) for optimal absorption.

Collagen, a key active ingredient for taking care of your joints

Collagen is an essential component for maintaining joint health . This fibrous protein makes up a large portion of the cartilage, tendons, and ligaments that support joints. As we age, our natural production of collagen declines , which can lead to deterioration of joint tissue and associated pain. Taking a collagen health supplement can help compensate for this loss and maintain joint elasticity and functionality. Collagen peptides , especially type II, are specifically recommended for joints because they are more easily absorbed by the body. They help regenerate cartilage and maintain joint health over time (1).

Athletes: why is it important to take a joint food supplement?

Prevention of joint injuries

Taking a joint supplement helps prevent injuries (2) by strengthening joint structures such as cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. Ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin promote cartilage regeneration and reduce the risk of tears or excessive wear, which are common among athletes who undergo intense and repetitive efforts.

Reduction of inflammation

Joint supplements often contain nutrients with anti-inflammatory properties, such as omega-3 or turmeric. These substances help reduce inflammation in the joints, a common problem among athletes, especially after intense workouts or competitions. Reducing inflammation not only helps relieve pain , but also prevents more serious damage in the long term.

Improved mobility and flexibility

Another major benefit of joint supplements is improved joint mobility and flexibility . Active ingredients such as collagen support the structure of connective tissues, allowing joints to remain flexible and functional. This is particularly beneficial for athletes who need to maintain an optimal range of motion to excel in their discipline.

Acceleration of recovery after exercise

Joint supplements can also play a crucial role in recovery after exercise . By providing the nutrients needed to repair damaged tissues, these supplements help reduce recovery time: get back to training faster without the increased risk of injury.

What vitamins and minerals should you take care of your joints?

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that plays a crucial role in the synthesis of collagen . It is an essential protein in the structure of cartilage, tendons and ligaments, which act as shock absorbers in the joints. A joint food supplement enriched with vitamin C will stimulate fibroblasts (the cells responsible for the production of collagen) and help stabilize the structure of the latter. In addition, by neutralizing free radicals, vitamin C protects joints against oxidative damage that can accelerate the degradation of cartilage.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is crucial for the absorption of calcium , a mineral essential for bone health. It also helps modulate inflammatory responses in the joints. Adequate vitamin D intake therefore promotes calcium absorption in the intestine, which is vital for maintaining bone density . Good bone health is essential for strong joints , as bones form the rigid structures around which joints move. Additionally, a joint supplement with vitamin D has immunomodulatory properties that can help reduce joint inflammation .

Calcium

Calcium is essential for strong bones , which support joints and allow for smooth mobility. In fact, it is the main mineral in bones. It is essential for maintaining bone strength and preventing bone demineralization. Strong bones help maintain stable and well-aligned joints , reducing the risk of injury and premature joint wear.

Magnesium

Magnesium plays a role in muscle relaxation and reducing inflammation, which is crucial for healthy joint function. It is necessary for muscle and nerve function, helping to regulate muscle contractions and prevent cramps . It is important to know that well-functioning muscles properly support joints and reduce mechanical stress on them.

Zinc

Zinc is involved in collagen synthesis and has anti-inflammatory properties , which is beneficial for the repair of joint tissues. A joint food supplement enriched with zinc will act as a cofactor for several enzymes that participate in collagen synthesis and connective tissue repair. It also supports immune processes that help control inflammation. By promoting repair and reducing inflammation, zinc therefore contributes to the protection of joints against wear and damage.

Omega-3 (essential fatty acids)

While not a vitamin or mineral, omega-3s are worth mentioning for their anti-inflammatory role and support for joint health. Omega-3 fatty acids , found in oily fish and supplements, help reduce systemic inflammation . They work by inhibiting the production of certain inflammatory molecules (like prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which can cause joint pain and damage.

Sources:

(1) https://pres s e.inserm.fr/canal-detox/le-collagene-pour-soulager-les-douleurs-vraiment/

(2) https://presse.inserm.fr/1-francais-sur-2-souffre-de-douleurs-articulaires/25303/