Medical Questions » Arthritis Questions » Question No. 1240
| Question: | What supplements can I take to help repair cartilage damage and prevent arthritis in my knee? |
| Answer: | There is evidence that glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids can aid joint health and help repair damaged cartilage. Glucosamine is a building block of cartilage that both stimulates rebuilding and inhibits deterioration, while omega-3 fats help to reduce any inflammation. You can buy glucosamine in supplement form - look for a formula combined with just sulfate rather than chondroitin sulfate, which can be harder to absorb. Omega-3 fatty acids are the healthy fats found in oily fish such as sardines, wild salmon and mackerel. Unfortunately, you' d need to eat around 10 portions a week to get sufficient quantities, so I' d advise taking a good-quality, high-dose omega-3 fish oil supplement as well.
You need the daily equivalent of at least 1,000mg of combined EPA and DHA, if not double this amount, for maximum effectiveness. |
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