Natural ways to ease arthritis

If you’re among the 53 million Americans with arthritis, you know the daily toll—morning stiffness, aching joints, simple tasks that feel impossible. Doctors recommend an anti-inflammatory diet, exercise and stress management to ease symptoms naturally. But supplements can help too. The problem: With so many products promising relief, what actually works? Here, 4 to try adding to your regimen

- Kristina Mastrocola

Boswellia

“The herbal extract boswellia is super interesting—the data is limited, but exciting,” says Melina Jampolis, M.D., board-certified physician nutrition specialist and author of Spice Up, Live Long. The key is zeroing in on the right extract.

“The Arthritis Foundation recommends looking for AKBA or 5-Loxin on the ingredient list. These are the clinically studied boswellia acids associated with pain relief and inhibiting the breakdown of collagen in joints.” Aim for 300 to 400 mg a day.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA) are very different, says Dr. Jampolis. “Osteoarthritis is mechanical, the long-term wear and tear on joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is inflammatory.”