Arthritis is a debilitating and painful disease at its worst, and an annoying inconvenience at its best. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medications can help to alleviate joint stiffness and pain. The problem with NSAID medications is that they can cause stomach irritation and damage. NSAIDs can also interfere with other prescription medications and individuals should not consume them with large amounts of alcohol. Natural remedies for joint stiffness and pain related to arthritis include omega-3 fatty acids, dairy products, olive oil, whole nuts, and green lipped mussels. Combined supplements, such as green health powder, can deliver many of these natural remedies.
Omega-3 fatty acids come from fish and vegetarian sources, such as flaxseed. The reason why omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce the symptoms of arthritis is because they are anti-inflammatory. The anti-inflammatory properties reduce the swelling and pain within the joints. As arthritis is considered to be an inflammatory disease, natural anti-inflammatories can help increase flexibility and movement. Olive oil is another natural ingredient that nutrition experts label as anti-inflammatory.
Additional characteristics of olive oil make it a superior natural treatment for arthritis symptoms. One of those characteristics includes a chemical that mimics a leading type of NSAID medication. Individuals can easily add olive oil into their cooking regimines, but not everyone appreciates the fuller taste of olive oil. This type of oil is also not the most appropriate oil to use when preparing baked items. Supplements that contain olive oil are a way to enjoy its health benefits without having to endure its taste.
Perhaps one of the most unknown natural anti-inflammatories is green lipped mussels. The New Zealand shellfish contains characteristics that are also similar to NSAID medications. Known for having the capacity to relieve pain and swelling, green lipped mussels can be either eaten whole or consumed in supplement form. Dairy products and nuts help alleviate the symptoms of arthritis by building up bone strength and protein.
Regardless of the source, natural supplements are a great alternative to traditional over-the-counter solutions. Natural remedies have less of a chance of producing harmful, long-term side effects. While effective, NSAID medications do carry long-term implications and carry the risk of overdose.