SA Shark

Which Collagen is Best for Arthritis and Joint Pain?

webtech — Sun, 05 Apr 2026 05:57:37 +0000

Can collagen really help relieve arthritis and joint pain? And which type of collagen works best?

You’ve likely heard of the wonders of collagen or perhaps already taken collagen supplements for your skin or gut health.

Long hailed as the ‘beauty booster’, collagen protein isn’t just a pretty face (so to speak). There’s a whole lot more to this protein that may help you improve your joint pain in a natural, complementary way.

Since South Australian Shark Cartilage contains a naturally occurring form of type II collagen, we decided to dig into the science and find out how type II collagen, specifically, may help.

What is collagen?

Like the wooden framework that creates the structure for your home, collagen is a naturally occurring protein that gives your body strength and form. It’s found in your muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones and skin and makes up 30 to 40% of proteins in the human body.

You can think of collagen like the glue that holds everything together in your body. The word itself actually comes from the Greek word “kolla”, which means glue.

Unfortunately, this powerful body scaffolding starts to break down after the age of 30, causing annoying little problems like nagging joint pain and sagging skin.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. Taking a collagen supplement can help repair body tissue by restoring the protein in your body.

The main types of collagen

There are at least 16 types of collagen, but types 1, 2 and 3 account for 80 to 90% of the body’s total. Here are the most common types of collagen and what they can do for your body:

Type 1 – This type makes up around 90% of all the collagen in your body. This is the ‘beauty collagen’ that helps support healthy skin and keeps tissues and cells together in your bones, teeth, tendons and fibrous cartilage.

Type 2 – Your best friend if you have arthritis and joint pain, type 2 collagen is found in cartilage and helps to cushion your joints.

Type 3 – Like type 1, this collagen is found in porcine (pig) and bovine (cattle) collagen. It supports the structure of organs, arteries and muscles and also improves skin elasticity.

Signs your collagen levels are decreasing

So how do I know if my collagen levels are decreasing?

While collagen can’t be measured, your body will start to show signs that your levels are decreasing.

Some signs include:

Wrinkles and sagging skin
Shrinking, weakening muscles
Osteoarthritis and joint pain
Hallowed cheeks and eyes
Joint stiffness and loss of mobility
Gastrointestinal problems
Blood flow problems

How does type II collagen help relieve arthritis pain

So, how does type II collagen help to relieve arthritis pain? Does it actually work?

When it comes to osteoarthritis, type 2 collagen has the most promising benefits for joint health. But the type of arthritis and the form of collagen make all the difference.

Let’s dig in.

There are several types of arthritis – osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, among others. Here we’ll focus on the most common form, osteoarthritis, and how type II collagen can help.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative condition that breaks down cartilage over time through age, wear, injury or weight. Gradually, the bones of the joint may start rubbing directly against one another, causing severe pain. Articular cartilage, that smooth, white connective tissue that covers the ends of your bones at your joints, is affected in osteoarthritis and starts to break down.

How does type II collagen help OA

Type II collagen is the main protein in articular cartilage. In fact, type II makes up 90 to 95% of the total collagen content in our joints (Pan et al., 2023). As cartilage starts breaking down, so does the collagen — and that’s where supplementation comes in.

What the studies show

Clinical trials have shown significant reductions in pain and stiffness in OA patients, and type II collagen has been shown to work better than glucosamine and chondroitin in reducing joint pain and improving mobility (Gencoglu et al., 2020).

But before you reach for any old collagen supplement off the shelf, it’s important to understand that the form of the collagen makes a difference in how effective it is.

Why the form matters

To get the best results, the form of collagen matters.

If you’ve tried collagen supplements before and not noticed much difference in your joint pain, this might be why. Most brands of collagen you find in supermarkets and chemists are hydrolysed, or also known as collagen peptides. These can be great for hair, skin and nails, but not for joint pain and arthritis.

Denatured collagen

Denatured collagen – which includes collagen hydrolysates, most powders and bone broth – has had its 3D helix structure broken down by enzymes or heat during processing (Martínez-Puig et al., 2023).

This means the process has broken down the natural structure of the collagen, but the intact structure of type II collagen is what makes it especially effective for joints. In other words, clean and relatively untouched collagen is best for arthritis!

But this doesn’t make collagen peptides all bad. The denatured form of collagen can still be helpful as a building block supplement which provides amino acids.

Undenatured collagen

Think of undenatured collagen as natural and untouched. It’s collagen in its pure form with the triple helix structure intact. This is important as it’s the fully natural and intact nature of this form that the Peyer’s patches in the gut need to recognise it and trigger the anti-inflammatory response (Gencoglu et al., 2020).

What to look for

Most collagen supplements on the market are denatured and most labels won’t make this denatured vs undenatured distinction obvious, so it’s worth knowing what you’re looking for.

Introducing

New Tonik Marine Collagen Capsules

Support your skin elasticity and promote healthy joints with these clean, taste-free marine collagen capsules.

BUY NOW

Is Type II Collagen Found in Shark Cartilage?

Pure marine collagen, like South Australian Shark Cartilage, is a natural, unprocessed source of type II collagen

Why type II collagen is best for arthritis

Sharks have a fully cartilaginous skeleton, unlike humans and other mammals, where only parts of their structure are made of cartilage. This means shark cartilage is a naturally rich source of type II collagen. It is also a source of naturally occurring chondroitin sulfate, another compound that has anti-inflammatory benefits for joint pain.

Unlike bovine collagen, marine collagen doesn’t carry the risk of mad cow disease or other land-animal disease transmission.

Researchers are increasingly looking to marine sources of collagen as safer, cleaner alternatives to traditional land-animal sources. Marine type II collagen is showing particular promise for joint health (Frontiers in Marine Science, 2023).

The science on shark cartilage

In a 2023 study, Pan et al. confirmed that type II collagen was successfully isolated from blue shark cartilage with its natural structure (triple helix structure) undamaged and fully preserved. This is crucial for the oral tolerance mechanism to work so that the collagen can work its anti-inflammatory magic on the joints. (Pan et al., 2023).

The collagen they extracted also showed high levels of glycine and hydroxyproline, two amino acids that are most critical for cartilage repair and stability.

What the studies show

This theory was tested in a 2013 study on arthritic rats. The rats were given an oral administration of type II collagen from shark cartilage, and the researchers found that this reduced joint inflammation in the rats via oral tolerance (Zhu et al., 2013, PMC).

Sustainably-sourced

South Australian shark cartilage is sourced as a byproduct of commercial fishing, which means sharks are not directly targeted for the product. This makes it a resource-efficient, low-waste source as the cartilage would otherwise be discarded (Pan et al., 2023).

Is it safe to take?

According to WebMD, type II collagen supplements are possibly safe when used in the short term. Some people may experience stomach problems or allergies, so it’s best to trial it safely.

Shark cartilage supplements are generally considered well-tolerated when used as directed. It can be taken safely for up to 40 months, after which time it’s best to consult with your doctor.

The side effects of shark cartilage are usually mild and infrequent. They can include:

stomach upsets
constipation
unusual taste in mouth.

As with any supplement, consult your healthcare provider before starting — particularly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication.

Adding more collagen to your diet

If you’re thinking of investing in a collagen supplement, it’s important to first check with a health professional. If you have any kind of seafood allergies, you may have a problem with marine collagen. You’ll also need to investigate which type of collagen is best suited for your body and needs.

Try South Australian Shark Cartilage

South Australian Shark Cartilage is a naturally and ethically-sourced, chemical-free form of type II collagen. It comes in capsule form (100 capsules and 400 capsules) and powder form.

You can buy our product here:

100 capsules
400 capsules
Powder 200g

New Tonik Marine Collagen Capsules

We now sell high-strength marine collagen capsules through Tonik. These are fish derived marine collagen – a different source to shark cartilage but equally clean, natural and science-backed.

These are an advanced marine collagen complex with naturally occurring peptides to support healthy skin, strong hair and nails, and promote youthful skin elasticity.

At SASC, we only provide you with clean, science-backed, quality products to support your health and wellbeing. Tonik’s Marine Collagen capsules meet our rigorous standards.

Nutritional Food Grade – Therapeutic doses, not token amounts
Clean Formulas – No fillers, binders, or artificial additives
Science-backed – Every ingredient is research-supported
Australian-made– Quality tested & assured

You can buy Tonik Marine Collagen capsules here.

If you have any questions about the product, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Sources

Pan, Z. et al. (2023). Isolation and Biochemical Properties of Type II Collagen from Blue Shark (Prionace glauca) Cartilage. Marine Drugs. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10222689/
Gencoglu, H. et al. (2020). Undenatured Type II Collagen (UC-II) in Joint Health and Disease. PMC. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7222752/
Trentham, D.E. et al. (1993). Effects of Oral Administration of Type II Collagen on Rheumatoid Arthritis. Science. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.8378772
Martínez-Puig, D. et al. (2023). Collagen Supplementation for Joint Health: The Link between Composition and Scientific Knowledge. PMC. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10058045/
Zhu, X. et al. (2013). Oral Administration of Shark Type II Collagen Suppresses Complete Freund’s Adjuvant-Induced Rheumatoid Arthritis in Rats. PMC. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3763645/
Frontiers in Marine Science (2023). Marine Collagen: Purification, Properties and Application. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/marine-science/articles/10.3389/fmars.2023.1245077/full
WebMD. Collagen Type II (Native) — Uses, Side Effects and More. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-714/collagen-type-ii-native
Further Reading
- Arthritis Foundation — Are Collagen Supplements Helpful for Arthritis? https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/complementary-therapies/supplements-and-vitamins/can-collagen-supplements-help-arthritis
- Arthritis Foundation — 12 Supplements for Osteoarthritis https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/complementary-therapies/supplements-and-vitamins/12-supplements-for-osteoarthritis
- Examine.com — Type II Collagen https://examine.com/supplements/type-ii-collagen/
- Nutraviva — Undenatured vs Hydrolysed Collagen for Joint Health https://nutraviva.com.au/blogs/news/the-science-behind-collagen-for-joint-health-undenatured-vs-hydrolysed-collagen
- Cleveland Clinic — Collagen https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23089-collagen
- Vitality and Wellness — 11 Clinical Signs of Collagen Deficiency https://www.vitalityandwellness.com.au/blogs/health-matters/11-clinical-signs-of-collagen-deficienAust

Nick Dale

Nick is a lover of all things mentally and physically healthy, a personal development geek and trained yoga teacher. With a background as an ESL Teacher, Actor and Writer, communication in its many and varied forms is what keeps him sparked.

The post Which Collagen is Best for Arthritis and Joint Pain? appeared first on SA Shark.

How Chondroitin Sulfate Helps Arthritis Pain

sashark — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 04:17:59 +0000

There’s a lot of talk out there about chondroitin sulfate and its potential role in treating osteoarthritis symptoms. Since South Australian Shark Cartilage contains a naturally-occuring form of chondroitin, we decided to look at the research and bring you the science, without the waffle.

So what is chondroitin suflate and how does it help improve joint pain and arthritis symptoms?

What is chondroitin sulfate?

Chondroitin sulfate is a building block-type substance that is found in the cartilage of the human body and all vertebrate animals, like cows and sharks.

Our ability to walk or run is basically possible due to the chondroitin sulfate in our cartilage. That bouncy feeling when you stroll down the road? That’s chondroitin providing a resistance to compression between the bones, acting as a shock absorber like the suspension in the wheels of bikes and cars.

What does it do?

Chondroitin helps keep your joints hydrated by attracting water and nutrients into the tissue. It’s cartilage’s best friend in that it helps regulate cartilage metabolism and protect it from degradation.

In osteoarthritis, cartilage gradually breaks down and inflammation in the joint lining often develops. Your joints will feel stiff and painful, and mobility will be reduced.

How does chondroitin sulfate in shark cartilage help?

Shark cartilage naturally contains chondroitin sulfate, one of the key structural components of human cartilage.

The potential role of chondroitin in supporting joint comfort may relate to its ability to modulate inflammatory processes within the synovial fluid of the joints.

What does this actually mean?

We know that arthritis pain often comes more directly from inflammation within the synovial tissue (inside your joints), rather than cartilage loss itself. The chondroitin within shark cartilage doesn’t rebuild human cartilage directly, but research suggests it influences the inflammatory environment inside the joint. (Study)

Chondroitin essentially helps to calm the inflammation process. This happens gradually as biochemical signalling starts to shift, so the results take time.

Studies have found that chondroitin sulfate supplementation can work particularly well for knee pain. Some studies have found its effects on knee pain to be comparable to certain anti-inflammatory medications, such as celecoxib. (Study)

It may also help relieve pain and improve physical function and mobility overall.

What does the research say?

There have been some promising findings in controlled trials testing the effects of chondroitin on treating osteoarthritis. Sixteen trials compared the potential benefits of chondroitin against a placebo. Twelve out of these 16 found “that chondroitin was significantly superior to the placebo in relieving pain”. (Arthritis UK)

Studies

In a 2008 review published in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage (Iovu et al.), researchers discussed evidence that chondroitin sulfate can influence inflammatory pathways in the joint by reducing activation of pro-inflammatory signalling (e.g., NF-κB) within cartilage and synovial tissue. This suggests a possible mechanism by which chondroitin may support joint comfort in conditions involving synovial inflammation.

Is it safe to take?

Shark cartilage supplements are generally considered well-tolerated when used as directed.

The side effects of chondroitin sulfate are usually mild and infrequent. They can include:

stomach upsets
headaches
increased intestinal gas
diarrhoea
rashes.

Chondroitin sulfate has been widely studied and is generally considered well-tolerated in clinical research, with few reported side effects.

How long will it take to work?

Whether taken as a standalone supplement or sourced from shark cartilage, chondroitin sulfate tends to work gradually rather than immediately.

It’s generally recommended to take it consistently for at least 8–12 weeks before assessing its effects.

What else is it good for?

Apart from supporting cartilage and preventing its breakdown, chondroitin sulfate may also have other health benefits.

Bone health

By helping to strengthen cartilage, chondroitin may reduce stress on the bones. As osteoarthritis takes its toll, the bone just below the cartilage starts to soften.

When cartilage is better supported, less stress may be transferred to the underlying bone.

Improved mobility

Chondroitin may relieve joint pain, which means less stiffness and an improved range of motion. This could mean an improvement in the ability to walk, exercise and perform daily activities.

Eye health

Though more research is needed, it’s been shown that chondroitin sulfate mixed with sodium hyaluronate protects the eye during cataract surgery. It does this by lubricating the eye and keeping the cornea moist.

Try South Australian Shark Cartilage

South Australian Shark Cartilage is a naturally and ethically-sourced, chemical-free form of chondroitin sulfate. It comes in capsule form (100 capsules and 400 capsules) and powder form.

You can buy our product here:

100 capsules
400 capsules
Powder 200g

If you have any questions about the product, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Sources

Nick Dale

The post How Chondroitin Sulfate Helps Arthritis Pain appeared first on SA Shark.

8 Herbs and Spices to Ease Your Arthritis Pain

sashark — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 02:54:19 +0000

At South Australian Shark Cartilage, our focus is on helping you manage your arthritis symptoms with science-backed natural alternatives to regular medications.

Please note – This article is completely AI-free and was written with rigorous research using science-backed evidence and referencing clinical studies. You can click the links at the bottom of the article for more information.

If you’re looking for natural ways to ease your arthritis pain, you may find some help in your kitchen cupboard.

Those spices and herbs just aching to liven up your evening meals have a whole range of healing properties you may not be aware of, particularly for arthritis.

We’ve compiled eight of the best herbs and spices that may help relieve arthritis and joint pain when taken as supplements or included regularly in your diet.

It’s all in the history

The practice of herbal medicine dates back thousands of years. In fact, archaeological evidence shows that our ancestors used herbs during the Palaeolithic period around 60,000 years ago. The use of herbs for healing spread across the world but was particularly developed in places like Egypt, India and China.

Before we dive in, you might notice a common thread among many of these herbs: they’re rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. This is key. Arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition, in fact, the word arthritis literally means inflammation of the joints. Herbs with antioxidant properties can help neutralise free radicals and oxidative stress, which in turn reduces inflammation.

So let’s raid the spice rack and see what these colouful, aromatic little numbers have to offer.

1. GARLIC

Garlic has been known as a fantastic defence against colds and flus and an immune system booster for a long time.

But, you may not know that this faithful little spice is a potent anti-inflammatory and anti-immunomodulator. This means it not only helps keep your immune system balanced and strong, but also reduces inflammation in the body.

Garlic does this with an anti-inflammatory compound called diallyl disulfide, which limits the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Garlic makes the Arthritis Foundation’s list of best spices for Arthritis; “garlic can help fight inflammation and may even help prevent cartilage damage from arthritis.” (Footer Link #1)

This is a great excuse to keep adding garlic to your meals as much as possible, sprinkling it raw over your salads or even eating a whole clove each morning.

Studies:

70 women with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis participated in an 8-week randomised controlled trial to test the effect of garlic on arthritis symptoms. The group took either one gram of garlic per day or a placebo. The results saw a reduction in C-reactive protein (CRP), joint stiffness, disease activity score, pain, and fatigue. (Study)

2. TURMERIC

Those fancy turmeric lattes people sip these days may be a whole lot more beneficial than just a cute yellow grin.

So why the popularity? Turmeric doesn’t just add a dashing yellow colour to your favourite smoothie; it is a spice full of powerful healing properties.

What’s most important for your arthritis is that turmeric contains curcumin, which targets inflammatory cells and blocks certain enzymes that lead to inflammation.

Adding turmeric to your cooking is definitely worthwhile, but throwing it in smoothies and muffins will not give you the anti-inflammatory benefits you need. Turmeric only contains 2 to 9 per cent of curcumin, so it’s best to supplement for a more efficient gain. Dr. Horwtiz from the University of Arizona College of Medicine says to look for turmeric supplements that say, “standardized to 95% curcuminoids”. (Footer Link #2)

Tip: Make sure your turmeric contains ‘piperine’ or black pepper extract. The pepper combined with curcumin increases its bioavailability by 2,000 percent.

Note: The supplement may interact with some prescription medications and can aggravate gallstone disease, advises Dr. Horwitz. Check with your doctor about dosage and if it’s a safe option.

Studies
2016 was the year for turmeric! Two studies were undertaken. A randomised controlled trial found that 1,000 mg a day of curcumin reduced osteoarthritis pain and inflammation as effectively as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. (Study)

Avoid turmeric/curcumin if you take blood thinners such as warfarin, are about to have surgery, are pregnant or have gallbladder disease.

3. GINGER

This feisty spice is considered one of the best foods to combat arthritis symptoms. Like garlic and turmeric, it also contains anti-inflammatory properties, and it’s a great antioxidant too.

According to arthritis-health.com, ginger is very helpful in relieving pain and improving function for all types of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. If you like scientific proof, 5 studies found that “those with osteoarthritis who took ginger had a 30% decrease in pain and a 22% reduction in disability, compared with control groups.” (Footer Link #7)

The chemicals in ginger that block inflammation pathways in the body are gingerol and shogaol.

Tip: Ginger is best used in its fresh form. An excellent way to get your ginger fix is by boiling it in a tea. Use a one-to-two-inch piece of ginger and boil it for 30 to 60 minutes. *

Studies:

In 2001, a group of 261 patients with osteoarthritis in the knee and moderate-to-severe pain were placed in a randomised study group for 6 weeks. The group were given a highly purified ginger extract twice daily. There was a “statistically significant effect on reducing symptoms of OA of the knee.” (Study)

A win for ginger!

Note: Ginger can interfere with blood-thinning medications. Do not use if you have gallstones.

4. CARDAMOM

This exotic little number has a long history and is considered one of the oldest spices in the world. Dating back at least 4000 years, cardamom originally came from wild plants in Southern India. It then made its way along the trade route to the Arab states and Europe. The Ancient Egyptians used cardamom for many medicinal purposes and as part of their rituals, including embalming.

For thousands of years, people have used it to treat indigestion, asthma and bad breath. Most of us know it as a spice used in Indian dishes like dahl, but cardamom actually contains several vitamins, minerals and is fibre-rich.

More than just a winter warming spice, cardamom may help reduce arthritis symptoms due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Studies:
Studies suggest cardamom ‘appears’ to increase the antioxidant status in the body, which means it can reduce inflammatory markers. In one study, a group of individuals with metabolic syndrome consumed cardamom daily for 8 weeks. Results showed a significant reduction in inflammation markers. (Study)

This steadfast little spicy pod may be a worthy addition to your arthritis treatment protocol

5. CINNAMON

More than just a sweet face (taste), cinnamon may have some healing benefits.

Cinnamon conjures images of winter fires, hands around warm mugs and Christmas time (cinnamon buns (cinnabuns) anyone?), but it also has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, research shows that cinnamon has the highest antioxidant activity among 26 spices! Anything that reduces inflammation and increases antioxidants is a win for arthritis symptoms.

An interesting clinical trial undertaken in Iran showed evidence of cinnamon supplements reducing systemic inflammation but also “lower levels of pain and…lower tender and swollen joint counts as well”, according to rheumatologist and integrative medicine physician Neha Shah, MD.

But don’t swallow spoonfuls of cinnamon whole! A bizarre social media trend in the 2010s called the ‘Cinnamon Challenge’ caused some people to have respiratory attacks, like gagging and choking.

Studies:

690 participants in 12 studies took 1,500 to 4,000 mg of cinnamon daily for 10 to 110 days. Results found significantly reduced inflammatory markers in the participants and an increase in antioxidant levels. Another analysis of 285 people found a reduction in CRP levels in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. (Study)

Note: If you take blood thinners, consult with your doctor before taking cinnamon as a supplement due to spice-drug interactions.

6. BLACK PEPPER (piperine)

Good old- fashioned black pepper may be a helpful addition to your natural arthritis treatment toolkit.

Studies have shown it has powerful pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. One study showed piperine may be almost as effective for arthritis sufferers as prednisolone, a common arthritis medication. (Study).

When added to turmeric, black pepper boosts the anti-inflammatory effects of these two spices. You can also buy turmeric supplements with additional black pepper.

Studies:

A study in rats with arthritis showed piperine (a compound found in black pepper) reduced joint swelling and inflammation. (Study)

7. GINSENG

Originating from Korea and parts of East Asia, panax ginseng (or Korean red ginseng) has been considered a powerful herb with many healing properties for centuries.

This healing plant grows in China, Korea and Siberia and contains many chemical compounds, like ginsenosides and panaxosides that are thought to have medicinal properties. It’s been used to boost energy, improve cognitive function, support immunity and combat stress.

When it comes to arthritis, again, it all comes back to inflammation, and studies now show that red ginseng acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.

Studies:
A randomised trial showed patients who took red ginseng improved joint pain and increased production of antioxidant enzymes. (Study).

Note: Ginseng is a strong herb, so take care when dosing. It’s best not to take it any longer than 6 months, as it may have some hormone-like effects that could be harmful when used long-term.

8. ROSEMARY

Last but not least, the divine rosemary. And what a history it has.

As a healing herb, rosemary dates back to the Middle Ages and earlier, when Europeans used it to ward off illnesses. They also dangled it around the entrances of homes and hospitals as a purification. A woody-smelling, pungent herb, rosemary has been a popular addition to savoury dishes for centuries. But this tried-and-true wonder is also a rich source of anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds – rosmarinic acid and camphor, to be exact.

Rosemary won’t directly reduce your arthritis pain, but when used as an aromatherapy oil, it acts on the smell receptors in the nose to help relieve pain and stress. Mehmet Oz, MD, director of Columbia University Medical Centre’s Integrative Medicine Centre in New York City, says “Aromatherapy is effective because it works directly on the amygdala, the brain’s emotional centre.”

Including rosemary in your aromatherapy kit could be a useful addition to your arthritis treatment. Using the herb in your cooking can aid in reducing inflammation.

And the wrap-up

Like these herbs, South Australian Shark Cartilage also contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These properties help reduce inflammation in the body, boost your immune system and relieve joint pain.

While it’s important to seek medical advice for treating your arthritis, it’s very clear that our ever-loving Mother Earth has provided us with an abundance of wonderful healing herbs and spices that can add more than just flavour to your life.

Sources

Nick Dale

The post 8 Herbs and Spices to Ease Your Arthritis Pain appeared first on SA Shark.

How Mindfulness Might Help Relieve Arthritis Pain

webtech — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 00:53:47 +0000

When we’re in pain, we usually try to escape it at all costs. But focusing our attention on the present moment, also known as practicing mindfulness, may actually help to alleviate pain and other symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

Pain is often made worse by our relationship to it. We all know the more we focus on something, the more it seems to amplify.

Mindfulness and meditation help relieve the anxiety and stress around joint pain and arthritis symptoms, helping us to experience more ease.

What is mindfulness?

Photo by Ian Stauffer on Unsplash

You’ve likely heard about mindfulness and its benefits. But what exactly is it?

Mindfulness means paying full attention to the present moment, to what is happening around you and within you, without judgement.

While the roots of mindfulness come from ancient eastern traditions like Buddhism, the practice was developed further into mindfulness-based therapies by Dr Jon Kabat-Zinn in the 1970s. These practices help people develop a stronger awareness of what is happening in the mind and body.

When we’re mindful, we become the kind observer of our thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations. We let everything flow in and out.

Mindfulness doesn’t mean making our pain disappear or willing the bad stuff away. It’s about acceptance and changing our relationship to it.

Oftentimes, with chronic conditions and pain, our nervous systems get stuck in an endless feedback loop, which worsens our perception of what we’re dealing with.

Meditation and practices such as body scans, mindful movement, and breathwork work to calm and regulate the nervous system, relieve stress, and make pain feel less intense.

The benefits of mindfulness and meditation

Photo by Toni Reed on Unsplash

Many of us live our lives in stress mode, more than we’d like to admit. Pain and stress interact on multiple levels in a vicious cycle that seems impossible to intersect. Stress not only causes inflammation but can “heighten the perception of pain” (Landau, M.D, 2023)

So, what do we do about it?

Of course, pain medications have their place, and we always recommend consulting with your health professional. But drugs alone, in many cases, are often not enough.

“Drugs are effective for rheumatoid arthritis, but they don’t affect the stress pathways that are so fundamental to the condition,” says Michael Irwin, MD, a professor of psychiatry at the University of California in Los Angeles and the director of its Mindful Awareness Research Center (MARC).

Mindfulness and meditation can benefit as an adjunct to your pain treatment by helping alter your perception of the pain.

“By not allowing pain to define our lives, we can change how we view and relate to pain. That’s mindfulness –changing our feelings and thoughts around pain.” Andrea Minick Rudolph.

Natural ways to ease joint pain

Many of us think of meditation and groan. Do I really have to sit up with my back straight for an hour and ommm like a monk on a mountain top? What will it actually do?

There are simple, time-efficient ways we can incorporate mindfulness and meditation into our lives. And no, you don’t have to move to the mountains of Tibet.

It’s not about eliminating the pain, but changing our relationship to it. And mindfulness combined with medications and protocols advised by your health professional, as well as supplements that support the joints, such as South Australian Shark Cartilage, can make a big difference in your quality of life.

3 types of mindfulness

1. Meditation

When you’re in pain, the last thing you might want to do is sit still and focus on your breath, but the best way to approach meditation (if you’re new to it, of course) is to start small. Even 5 minutes a day can be the seed of a fruitful practice.

The body scan (or Yoga Nidra)

Jon Kabat-Zinn recommends the body scan exercise as the most effective type of mindfulness practice for managing pain. You can do this lying down, which works well if you struggle to sit up for any length of time. You can also do it when you first wake up or before you go to sleep.

The body scan can take some practice, and it isn’t a magical pill to eliminate your pain. Instead, it helps to ground your awareness into your body and calm your nervous system, which can have longer-term benefits, including pain reduction. With ongoing practice, the results can make a huge difference to your quality of life.

Here’s how to do the body scan:

Get comfortable:
- Lie on your back, stretching out your arms and legs. Make sure your head and neck are comfortable.
Close your eyes
Focus on your breath:
- Notice your belly expand and recede as you breathe in and out.
Move your attention to your head:
- What sensations do you feel here? Just notice and observe without judgement.
Slowly move your attention down your body:
- Next, focus on each eye, then your nose, your mouth, your chin.
Observe and breathe:
- If you notice any pain, witness the thoughts and emotions attached, and gently breathe through it.
Keep moving:
- Keep gently observing each body part, down each leg to your feet.
Let your mind wander and refocus:
- If your mind drifts to other thoughts, just observe and gently bring your awareness back to your body.
Come back:
- Slowly bring your awareness back to your surroundings and open your eyes.

Often, the body scan is best done through a guided meditation. You can find many of these on YouTube.

Yoga Nidra

Yoga Nidra, or Yogic sleep, is an ancient Hindu practice similar to the body scan, which aims to put the body and mind into a deep restful state.

The healing benefits of Yoga Nidra are numerous, including reducing stress and anxiety, emotional balance, improved cognition, and better sleep.

One of the best teachers of Yoga Nidra on YouTube is Ally Boothyroyd. She has many videos that guide you through the process for all kinds of needs and schedules, ranging from a quick 10 minutes to an hour or more.

2. Breathwork

Does your mind scatter all over the place when you try to meditate?

Breathwork is a faster way to calm the mind and get into a meditation practice. It also works well as a distraction if you tend to get agitated by simply sitting and doing nothing.

I’m not just talking the trending Wim Hoff-mountain man style here – there are so many types of breathwork that go deeper than this and can be deeply healing, for all kinds of conditions.

There was even a study done at King’s College in London that showed deep breathing can help people manage their pain. (Study)

So, how do we do breathwork?

Many styles of breathwork can help with different health issues. Here are a few to get started with:

Diaphragmatic breathing (deep, slow breaths)

The best way to start is with a simple breathing practice that quickly calms your nervous system. Taking long, slow breaths into your abdomen, also known as diaphragmatic breathing or ‘Yogic breath’, tells your mind and body not to stress.

“When you begin to breathe with more control, patience, and deliberation, you can also change the way your body experiences and relays sensations, including pain.” says Rheumatologist Dr. Humeira Badsha.

How to do it:

Lie on your back and get comfortable
Place a hand on your stomach and your other hand on your chest
Breathe in slowly through your nose
Imagine filling a balloon in your stomach as you breathe in. The hand on your chest should stay still
Breathe out slowly through your mouth. Imagine the balloon shrinking as your stomach flattens.

Helpful tips

As you breathe in, imagine sniffing your favourite smell, like a food you love, the sea breeze, or a flower.

As you breathe out, purse your lips like you’re going to whistle and let the air slowly release.

The important thing is to breathe into your stomach and not up into your chest, which is our usual habit. Breathing into the stomach activates the parasympathetic nervous system and relaxes the body.

4-7-8 breathing (vagus nerve stimulation)

Once you feel comfortable with the slow belly breaths, it’s time to stimulate your vagus. (Sorry?)

When you breathe in slowly and longer on the out breath, you’re stimulating your vagus nerve.

The vagus nerve is the largest in the body that runs from your brain to your large intestine. It plays an important role in our nervous system and controls involuntary functions such as digestion, heart rate and mood.

Using breath to stimulate your vagus nerve helps to calm your nervous system and stress response, and can help relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. It does this by reducing inflammation in the body.

How to do it:

Get comfortable seated or lie down
Breathe in through your nose for 4 seconds
Hold your breath at the top for 7 seconds
Slowly exhale through your mouth for 8 seconds

Do this a few times until you start to feel relaxed. Before you know it, you’ll be addicted!

If you like visual representations, try this video.

3. Active meditation

If you’re someone who doesn’t love sitting still, active meditation is a great way to start your mindfulness practice. You can meditate or engage in mindful movement just about anywhere.

Stretching

Stretching is not only a great way to relieve muscle soreness and joint pain, but it also helps to regulate the nervous system. When combined with mindful breathing, stretching is one of the easiest ways to support both your physical and mental well-being.

Check out our blogs on stretching and yoga:

3 Stretches for Arthritis and a Good Sleep

5 Things to Do in the Morning to Ease Joint Pain

Bringing mindfulness into your daily life

Photo by Hasan Hasanzadeh on Unsplash

If you like to be on the move, you can practice active meditation (or ‘mindful movement’) anytime as you go about your day.

You can practice while doing house chores, having a shower, cooking, or even doing your job.

How to do it:

While you’re going about your tasks, try to activate your senses by focusing on what you’re seeing, hearing, feeling, smelling, and tasting in the moment. For example, while walking, think about how your feet feel in your shoes, how the air is hitting your skin, the sounds around, and the colours that stand out to you. If you’re getting dressed, rather than thinking about the day ahead, take slow, deep breaths and focus on one-minute tasks at a time.

This might seem difficult at first, and your mind will want to rush and panic that it’s not being more ‘productive’. However, with some practice, you’ll notice how mindful movement begins to calm your nervous system and clear your mind.

Sources:

Everyday Health, Davids Landau, M, June 20, 2023, Can Mindfulness Meditation Ease Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain?
Arthritis Foundation, n.d, Types of Mediation for Arthritis
Arthritis Foundation, n.d, Meditation: Benefits for People with Arthritis
The Arthritis Movement, September 13, 2023, The Power of Mindfulness: Easing Arthritis Pain and Improving Wellbeing
Dr, Humeira Badsha, Badsha, H, August 2, 2017, Start Some Deep Breathing Exercises
Everyday Health, Davids Landau, M, July 6, 2023, This Breathing Exercise May Help Ease Rheumatoid Arthritis-Related Symptoms
Harvard Health Publishing, March 22, 2023, Mindfulness meditation to control pain
BBC, Robson, D, March 3, 2020, Why slowing your breathing helps you relax

Nick Dale

The post How Mindfulness Might Help Relieve Arthritis Pain appeared first on SA Shark.

5 Ways Collagen Can Benefit Your Health

sashark — Tue, 16 Mar 2021 00:08:47 +0000

So, what is so great about collagen?

Long hailed as the ‘beauty booster’, collagen protein isn’t just a pretty face (so to speak). Often used in beauty products to help make your skin look shiny and youthful, collagen can do much more for your health, including help relieve the pain in your joints.

From reducing inflammation and osteoarthritis symptoms to preventing bone loss and healing gut problems, this wonder protein offers a bevy of wonderful benefits for the body.

Let’s discover more about this intriguing part of our system called collagen.

What is collagen?

You can think of collagen like the glue that holds everything together in your body. The word itself actually comes from the Greek word “kolla”, which means glue. Your bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons and skin? They’re all given structure with the connective tissue provided by collagen.

Unfortunately, this powerful body scaffolding starts to break down after the age of 30 causing annoying little problems like nagging joint pain and sagging skin.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. Taking a collagen supplement can help repair body tissue by restoring the protein in your body.

The main types of collagen

There are at least 16 types of collagen but types 1, 2 and 3 account for 80 to 90% of the body’s total. Here are the most common types of collagen and what they can do for your body:

Type 1 – This type makes up around 90% of all the collagen in your body. This is the ‘beauty collagen’ that helps support healthy skin and keeps tissues and cells together in your bones, teeth, tendons and fibrous cartilage.

Type 2 – Your best friend if you have arthritis and joint pain, type 2 collagen is found in cartilage and helps to cushion your joints.

Type 3 – Like type 1, this collagen is found in porcine (pig) and bovine (cattle) collagen. It supports the structure of organs, arteries and muscles and also improves skin elasticity.

5 Ways Collagen Can Improve Your Health

1. Relieve Joint Pain

As we creep up the age ladder, the spongy cartilage in our joints starts to wear away. This is how osteoarthritis sets in. The cartilage, which provides a kind of lubricant between our joints and bones, is full of collagen. “As the amount of collagen in your body decreases, your risk of developing degenerative joint disorders such as osteoarthritis increases.”, according to Healthline.

Some studies have indicated that taking a collagen supplement may help improve osteoarthritis symptoms and reduce joint pain. One study involved 73 athletes taking 10 grams of collagen every day over a 24-week period. The athletes reported a significant reduction in joint pain while walking and at rest, compared with a placebo group that did not take collagen. (1)

The good news for arthritis sufferers is that one of the most effective benefits of collagen is how it can help improve arthritis symptoms. “… it is likely that collagen taken orally diminishes the molecules that lead to inflammation and disease”, says scientist Brooke Russell. Reduced inflammation can help lessen the pain associated with arthritis.

Another study proved that a hydrolyzed collagen supplement containing chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine helped reduce the pain in the joints of arthritis patients and improved walking ability. (2)

What type of collagen helps joint pain?

Type II collagen provides the most relief for osteoarthritis pain. It’s the main protein in the cartilage of our bodies and contains 8 of the most essential amino acids.

How does it work?

If you take a hydrolysed collagen supplement, the collagen peptides are absorbed in the digestive system and then make their way to the joint tissue where they create building blocks that trigger an increase in collagen production.

The fantastic thing about collagen for the joints is that it promotes cartilage lubrication and reduces inflammation in the synovial fluid. Collagen is a wonderful healer that comes to the rescue for the cartilage in our body.

Type II collagen is a marine collagen and is found in shark cartilage in a pure, bioactive form. Taking an all-natural shark cartilage supplement that does not use chemicals in processing such as South Australian Shark Cartilage is a natural way to reduce inflammation in your joints and relieve osteoarthritis pain. Not only that, but the collagen contained in shark cartilage has a whole bunch of other wonderful side benefits.

Read on to discover.

2. Prevent Bone Loss

Another benefit in collagen’s long list of superpowers is the strength and structure it gives to your bones. But just like cartilage, our bone mass also deteriorates with age. Low bone density causes bones to become weak and can lead to conditions such as osteoporosis.

Collagen has the ability to inhibit this bone breakdown and slow down bone loss. Some studies have been conducted to test this. One in particular involved 66 women taking 5 grams of collagen daily for 12 months and the results showed a 7% increase in the women’s bone mineral density (BMD).

3. Smooth Wrinkles and Boost Skin Elasticity

For the skin conscious out there, you’re probably already aware of the wondrous powers collagen can have for your epidermis. The most well-researched benefit of collagen is what it can do for your skin, including improving skin elasticity, helping to retain moisture and firming up your dermis by reviving the density of collagen fibres. Collagen gives strength and structure to key components of your body and the skin is no exception.

Scientists have gone to work to prove this with a number of studies including one which entailed a group of women taking a collagen supplement daily for 12 weeks. The women experienced a significant reduction in wrinkle depth and improved skin hydration compared to a control group. (3)

Type 1 collagen is the one you should be looking out for when it comes to your skin. High concentrations of this type can be found in marine collagen supplements.

4. Support Heart Health

If you’re wanting to keep your heart healthy and ticking away for as long as possible, collagen supplements may help reduce the risk of heart-related conditions.

Collagen does its thing by again providing structure to your arteries. These vital blood vessels distribute blood from your heart to the rest of your body, like a tributary flowing out from the river, and without enough collagen they can become weak. This can lead to a condition called atherosclerosis which means the arteries become narrow and can potentially cause a heart attack or stroke.

A small study set out to test the effects of collagen on the arteries by getting 31 participants to take 16 grams of collagen every day for 6 months. At the end of the study, the group measured a significant reduction in artery stiffness and a reduction in a bad cholesterol called lipoprotein.

5. Promote Gut Health

Some health practitioners use oral collagen supplements to promote gut health and treat conditions such as leaky gut syndrome and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Research has found that collagen levels are reduced in patients with these gut conditions. Collagen contributes to the connective tissue which makes up your colon and GI tract, so taking a collagen supplement to increase your levels could help to promote a supportive environment for your gut to heal. Essentially, collagen can help to heal and seal the gut by assisting the connective tissue in the intestinal lining.

Research has also found that sufferers of bowel conditions such as IBS have low levels of collagen type 4, which is necessary for a healthy digestive tract. (4)

While more research needs to be undertaken in this area, taking collagen peptides or a hydrolysed collagen are easily digestible and extremely helpful for gut issues.

Adding more collagen to your diet

For the meat eaters out there, collagen is abundant in the parts of the animal we usually don’t consume such as the skin, bones and organs. You can up your collagen quota by boiling the bones and making a broth (or buying a pre-made broth from the supermarket). Chicken skin and feet are also full of this powerful protein.

Otherwise, the most effective way to increase your collagen intake is by taking collagen peptides. This is a hydrolysed form of collagen which means your body can absorb it more efficiently. Two scoops per day is a good dose and you can throw it into your smoothies or juices or just have it with plain water. To boost the effects, take your collagen in combination with a vitamin C supplement as this aids collagen synthesis.

Nick Dale

The post 5 Ways Collagen Can Benefit Your Health appeared first on SA Shark.

7 Foods To Avoid With Arthritis

sashark — Tue, 20 Oct 2020 00:36:08 +0000

Sometimes it all gets too much and we need, crave those enticing comfort foods like a bag of salty chips or tub of ice-cream while curling up in front of the latest Netflix series.

Then, we groan with guilt, knowing we probably haven’t done our arthritis symptoms any favours.

So what foods should you avoid if you have osteoarthritis?

South Australian Shark Cartilage values clean and natural alternatives to treating your arthritis pain and stiff joints. There is so much information out there on what to eat and what not to eat, so we’ve compiled a list 7 foods to avoid if you have osteoarthritis.

1. Sugar

Ah ha, you knew that was coming. Sigh! I know. Oh that sweetness that takes the edge off a day. But it’s the refined sugars that we need to be wary of.

The problem with this kind of sugar is that it triggers the release of cytokines, a group of proteins which can activate inflammation in the body.
(Study) Inflammation is not good for osteoarthritis because it can exacerbate the pain in your joints.

Those alluring items on the supermarket shelves like cookies, cakes and chocolate as well as pasta, peanut butter and salad dressings can be full or refined sugars.

If you’re really keen to kick sugar, check out the I Quit Sugar 8-week program, founded by Australian writer/journalist Sarah Wilson, which has seen 1.8 million quit the sweet stuff and completely transform their bodies, health and wellbeing and lives!

You can still add that sugary buzz to your dishes with natural sugar substitutes such as coconut sugar, honey and maple syrup

2. Salt

Craving salty food? Who doesn’t love to dig into a bag full of salt covered crisps?

These kinds of food products can be full of sodium which can cause cells to retain water, thus aggravating osteoarthritis by a swelling of the joints.
Some salt is necessary in our diet but too much can increase this swelling and worsen pain.

Healthline suggests replacing salt with other flavours that can be just as satisfying such as lemon zest or garlic pepper.

3. Saturated Fats (Red Meat)

Many of us have grown up in a meat-loving world where throwing some snags and steaks on the barbie every weekend or doing a Sunday roast is just…what we do. While the meat and three veg may seem like a healthy enough diet, research says red meat is linked to inflammation (and thus, arthritis symptoms).

Meat contains a harmful compound called AGE (Advanced gylcation end) which can form in foods when exposed to high temperatures such as grilling and frying. This compound in meat, especially when fried, can stimulate inflammation, hence why we’re all warned to avoid fried foods.

Processed meats such as sausages, hot dogs and salami are also full of AGEs and should be avoided

4. The White Stuff

Carb cravings? All the white stuff we like to munch on for comfort eating such as white bread, pasta and crackers are, unfortunately, not great for arthritis symptoms. These are known as refined carbohydrates (or refined grains) and can trigger a spike in blood glucose levels which increases inflammation in the body.

Healthline recommends going for whole grains instead of white bread. These white refined wheat products also contain gluten which may also worsen arthritis pain.

5. MSG

MSG (Monosodium glutamate) is a food additive which enhances flavour in many foods but is commonly found in Asian dishes and soy sauce. It’s also very common in many fast foods, salad dressings and deli meats. According to arthritis.org, this chemical “can trigger two important pathways of chronic inflammation, and affect liver health”

6. Alcohol

Before you groan at this one, you may not need to completely give up that glass of red of an evening. According to the Arthritis Foundation, “Red wine has a compound in it called resveratrol, which has well-established anti-inflammatory effects.”

But before you start upping your dose to a bottle a night, most experts agree that excessive alcohol consumption (more than a glass or two a day) can have detrimental effects not just on your arthritis symptoms but your overall health including sleep disturbance, weight gain and depression. In many cases the lack of sleep quality due to alcohol abuse leads to an increase in joint pain.

The dehydration caused by alcohol consumption causes a reduction in joint lubrication which in turn aggravates joint pain. According to news-medical.net, our body’s natural nutrient content can be reduced by alcohol which subsequently leads to “suppression of the immune system and aggravation of joint inflammation.”

7. Omega-6

When it comes to the omegas, we need to be careful with how much omega-6 we take in. Omega-6 is found in many oils including safflower, sunflower, peanut and corn oils. It’s also high in most meats and egg yolks. arthritis.org says “Excess consumption of omega-6s can trigger the body to produce pro-inflammatory chemicals.”

It’s best to focus on omega-3, the healthier of the essential fatty acids which is found in foods such as oily fish, walnuts and flaxseeds.

Before you start eliminating all these from your diet, it’s important to speak to a health professional and ascertain your own individual requirements.

Knowing what not to eat is just as important as what to eat. Check out our article on 10 Foods To Soothe Arthritis for some tips on which foods may help reduce your symptoms.

With just a few small (and hopefully not too painful!) tweaks to your eating habits you can start feeling lighter and more freed up.

Start small and notice the difference.

Sources:

Healthline, 2019, 6 Foods To Avoid If You Have Osteoarthritis,
https://www.healthline.com/health/osteoarthritis/foods-to-avoid
Healthline, 2020, 8 Foods and Beverages To Avoid With Arthritis
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-to-avoid-arthritis
Arthritis Foundation, Best Drinks For Arthritis
https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/nutrition/healthy-eating/best-drinks-for-arthritis
Arthritis Foundation, 8 Food Ingredients That Can Cause Inflammation
https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/nutrition/foods-to-limit/8-food-ingredients-that-can-cause-inflammation
News Medical, 2019, Does Drinking Alcohol Cause Joint Pain In Arthritis?
https://www.news-medical.net/health/Does-Drinking-Alcohol-Cause-Joint-Pain-in-Arthritis.aspx#1
Arthritis Foundation, Fats and Oils To Avoid
https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/nutrition/foods-to-limit/fats-and-oils
Arthritis-Health, 2020, In the Kitchen with Arthritis: Foods To Avoid
https://www.arthritis-health.com/blog/kitchen-arthritis-foods-avoid
Healthline, What Are Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs)?
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/advanced-glycation-end-products#what-they-are
Medical News Today, 2020, 5 foods to avoid for arthritis
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/foods-to-avoid-with-arthritis
Healthline, 2020, 9 Natural Substitutes for Sugar
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/natural-sugar-substitutes#69.-Natural-sweeteners
Study: Cytokines, Inflammation and Pain:
Jun-Ming Zhang, MSc, MD1 and Jianxiong An, MSc, MD2
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2785020/#:~:text=Cytokines%20and%20pain-,Pro-inflammatory%20cytokines,the%20process%20of%20pathological%20pain.

Nick Dale

The post 7 Foods To Avoid With Arthritis appeared first on SA Shark.

3 Stretches For Arthritis And A Good Sleep

Nick Dale — Thu, 10 Sep 2020 06:47:31 +0000

Stretches for arthritis? Can it really help?

Something as simple as doing basic but specific stretches before bed can really help alleviate your arthritis for a good night’s sleep. Whether it be trying to relax enough to drift off into wonderland, inconveniently waking up at all hours or your eyes snapping open before the local birds have even had a chance to start warbling, getting deep and quality sleep is often a challenge for arthritis sufferers.

Arthritis Pain and Sleep

If we look at the research, it’s clear that lack of sleep has an effect on our central nervous system (CPM). This, in turn, can be detrimental to our brain’s ability to control and manage our perception of pain. According to arthritis.org, insomnia can promote something known as ‘centralised pain’; “This means that pain pathways become over-excited and pain is amplified beyond what would be typical for the amount of damage found in the joints.” (1)

We can go down a rabbit-hole of research on this topic, but the important thing is to start managing your sleep effectively in order to reduce the potential downward spiral that sleep deprivation and arthritis pain can spin into.

But it doesn’t have to be so tragic, and there are ways to treat arthritis pain and insomnia without relying solely on medication.

One way to possibly help improve sleep is by creating a relaxing evening routine to calm the mind, body and nervous system. This of course will vary from individual to individual and may include routines such as hot showers (or baths), meditation, using essential oils and choice of pillows and mattress.

Simple Stretches To Ease Your Arthritis Pain

Stretching is also a very simple and effective method for calming the nervous system, smoothing out the creaks and relaxing the body for a better sleep.

Here are 3 easy stretches you can do every night to alleviate your arthritis for a better sleep;

1. CAT / COW – ON KNEES OR SITTING

Cat-Cow Pose

One of the easiest and most effective yoga stretches is the Cat-Cow pose. It’s a very gentle pose which makes it great to finish off your day and wind yourself down in the evening. And it’s easy to do anywhere — convenient!

The Cat-Cow is a flow stretch between the Cow, arching your back and head upwards and looking up, and the Cat, rolling your shoulders and head down to make a ‘hunchback’ type position (in a good way!)

Benefits:

Gives a gentle stretch to the back, shoulders and neck
Opens up the chest and thus slows and deepens the breath (good for sleep)!
Stimulates and strengthens the abdominal organs (digestion)
Flows with the breath to calm the mind and alleviate stress (perfect)!
Here’s how to do it:

This posture can be done in two ways;
1. On your hands and knees on the floor
or
2. Sitting up on a chair (or in bed)

1. Start on your hands and knees with a flat back (table pose). Make sure your hands are placed directly under your shoulders and your hips above your knees for a nice, even table position.

2. Slowly inhale and move into the cow pose by lifting your head and sit bones upward and look straight ahead.

3. Roll your shoulders back and drop your belly down towards the mat (or floor).

4. As you exhale, move into the cat pose by rounding your shoulders down and arching your spine upward toward the ceiling.

5. Tuck your tailbone under and press gently into your hands. Relax your head completely toward the floor. Feel the beautiful stretch across upper back.

COW POSE

Cow Pose

CAT POSE

Cat Pose

Repeat this flow about 10 times, moving with your breath (inhale to cow and exhale to cat).

Sitting up:
If you don’t have time to get on the floor, do this pose while sitting up in bed. You can still move through Cat and Cow with your chest and arms and gain the same benefits.

1. Cross your legs and keep a straight spine against the head of your bed or wall (or simply stretch your legs in front of you if you can’t cross legs)

2. Clasp your hands together and stretch your arms out in front of you.

3. Breathe in. Drop your chin to your chest and round your upper back up.

4. Breathe out and open your arms out wide to either side of you.

5. Push your chest forward into cow pose, lifting your chin upwards and dropping your head back.

Repeat this flow about 10 times, moving slowly with your breath. (Breathing is important!)

2. KNEES- TO-CHEST

If you struggle with lower back or hip pain, the Knees-to-Chest Pose can be help ease the tension in this area. It’s a beautiful stretch for arthritis in the hips and lower back area. This is a simple pose you can do while lying in your bed before sleep.

Benefits

Offers a good stretch to the lower back and hips
Rebalances the nervous system as you draw your energy inwards
Stabilises the digestion and bowel movements
Helps expel tension and toxins

Here’s how to do it:

Lay on your back and pull your knees up towards your chest, wrapping your arms around your shins. Try to grasp your elbows if you can.
Tuck your chin into your chest, lengthening your spine along the floor.
Try to keep your spine connected with the bed (or floor).
Breathe slowly into your stomach and relax into the pose.

3. SPINAL TWIST

Spinal Twist on the floor

This is an excellent pose to finish your evening stretch routine. Why? Because gently twisting the spine and breathing deeply has an immediate calming effect on the nervous system.

I love this one because you can move into it easily and it really opens out the cricks in your spine and hips.

Benefits

Releases the tension in the lower back
Stretches out the spinal muscles
Improves digestion
Calms the mind
Centres the nervous system

Here’s how to do it:

Lay down straight on your bed, stretching your legs out.
Pull your right knee up toward your stomach (don’t force it the whole way).
Stretch your right arm out to your side, along the bed (or floor)
Move your hips to the right a little and roll your right knee across your body toward your left side
Keep your left leg stretched out straight along the bed
Turn your head toward your outstretched hand at the right
You can stretch your right leg out past your left leg, if you like, or keep it up closer to your body
Breathe deeply into your stomach and feel the beautiful stretch down your spine and into your lower back
Take 3 deep breaths

Repeat this on the other side, stretching out across the left arm and moving your left knee over to your right side.

Breathing is very important in this pose for maximum calming benefits. Stay in the twist for at least 3 breaths and let yourself relax.

So there we have it! You certainly do not need to be a ‘human-pretzel’ yoga enthusiast to enjoy the wonderful calming and healing effects of some simple yoga poses.

These 3 stretches are easy to implement into your bedtime routine. Stretches are really helpful for arthritis pain after a long day on the feet and a good way to love yourself up before sleep.

So, make like your cat or dog and stretch out your beautiful body before settling into a, hopefully, much more restful sleep!

Learn more about the origins of the all-natural product South Australian Shark Cartilage and how it may help provide temporary relief for your arthritis pain.
MORE INFO HERE.

Sources:
(1) https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/managing-pain/fatigue-sleep/osteoarthritis-and-sleep

https://www.news-medical.net/health/Does-Poor-Sleep-Worsen-Arthritis.aspx

Nick Dale

The post 3 Stretches For Arthritis And A Good Sleep appeared first on SA Shark.

How To Wake Up With More Energy

Nick Dale — Thu, 30 Jul 2020 23:29:49 +0000

That morning feeling.

The alarm snaps you awake. You fantasise about bounding straight out of bed, spinning in a few circles and leaping to your feet like you’re the star of a Broadway musical. Unfortunately, the reality is your body basically refuses to move. Your head feels groggy and your limbs heavy. The process of getting out of bed and starting your day seems to be a herculean feat. (5 things to do in the morning)

Your fantasy of being one of ‘those’ perky early birds will have to wait another day…

But what if it is possible to wake up feeling fresh and full of energy every day, regardless of age or any nagging arthritis conditions?

HOW DO YOU WAKE UP WITH MORE ENERGY?

A successful morning start often begins the evening before. The quality of your sleep, often more recently referred to as good ‘sleep hygiene’, can make all the difference to how you feel when you wake up.

GO TO SLEEP AND WAKE UP AT THE SAME TIME EVERY DAY

For the night owls among us, this may not be easy at first, but by creating a regular sleep schedule you regulate your body clock (circadian rhythm). With consistency, your body becomes used to going to sleep at the same time which makes it easier to fall asleep. Likewise, when you wake up around the same time, you will begin to feel tired at the right time in the evening, rather than feeling wired later at night.

It’s important to get up at the same time in the morning, regardless of how tired you may feel, or whether you slept enough. This helps set your circadian rhythm, your body’s 24-hour internal clock, in a more regular pattern.

With your body clock in sync, soon you’ll find you wake up with much more energy and bounce into your day.

PUT AWAY DIGITAL DEVICES AT LEAST 30 MINUTES BEFORE SLEEP

Photo by Victoria Heath on Unsplash

In a world full of screens and devices, it’s so easy to get drawn into the wonderful world of cyber – text messaging, scrolling and YouTubing late into the night. But unfortunately, digital screens emit a blue light which can disrupt our body’s natural cycle. Blue light emissions mimic daylight and can make us more alert, when we should be winding down. This is a very unnatural situation for the body. If we think of the pre- electronic era, our ancestors were free of digital temptations, as such, and thus operated in a more natural sync with the rhythm of the day – rising with the sun and turning in at sundown. These days our bodies are fighting to function in a world full of bright screens and a myriad of devices at our fingertips.

The blue toned light from computers and phones affects the production of melatonin, a sleep-related hormone which helps to make us feel sleepy. A PhD student at the University of Haifa in Israel, Amit Shai Green, investigated the effects of blue light on sleep by recruiting 19 volunteers in a sleep study. He found that looking at screens at night cut someone’s sleep by about 16 minutes. It also made people wake up more often at night, disrupting sleep. (Source)

TRY DEEP YOGA BREATHING

If you want to wake up with more energy, taking some deep breaths first thing in the morning can really help.

While you’re lying in bed and every fibre of your being simply wants to fall back into slumber, instead of ripping yourself up, you can energise your body with long, deep breaths.

Many studies have shown that deep yogic style breath, or pranayama, has numerous health benefits. Recently breath work has been popularised by Wim Hof, or ‘the iceman’ a Dutch athlete who teaches a deep breathing method that involves taking a series of circular breaths (without pausing) and then holding the breath for a minute to two minutes. Many people report a whole range of benefits to this, including increased energy and alertness and ability to focus. (Check out his video here)

But you don’t have to be this enthusiastic.

You can start with a few simple deep breaths when you first wake. A great way to wake up your body and senses as you lay in bed is to start a series of deep, rhythmic breaths. Don’t rush this process. This works best when you breathe deeply into your stomach. Let your stomach expand like a balloon. Let it rise up to your chest, then letting it fall back down again. Do a round of about 10 deep breaths.

Feel the air fill your lungs and spread energy through your body.

Doing this forces oxygen into your cells which improves circulation, wakes up your brain and boosts your energy levels.

GET SUNLIGHT

One of the first things we should do upon waking is seek out sunlight.

Photo by A. L. on Unsplash

Again our circadian rhythms benefit greatly from sun exposure.

Why?

Light acts as a guide to our internal body clock by letting us know when we need to be alert and when we need to sleep. By starting your morning with sun, you’re waking up your body and getting it into sync with the natural cycle of the day.

The Sleep Foundation says; “exposing your body to the sun will not only help alert the brain and set you in motion, it will also help you sleep later on” (source link)

So, draw back your blinds as soon as you get up and let the light fill your room, or, even better – get out into the direct sunlight and bathe in the warmth.

HYDRATE

Photo by Ghislaine Guerin on Unsplash

Many of us wake with dry mouths and try to stagger through the morning, all the while forgetting that our bodies have just gone possibly up to 8 hours without hydration. Your first instinct is most likely to claw straight for the coffee pot. Most of us don’t even want to think or speak before we’ve downed at least a few mouthfuls of morning perk. But coffee is quite dehydrating and isn’t the best way to welcome our body into the day.

Instead, start by calmly drinking a full glass of water. This way your starting your day with natural, quality hydration.

You can always clutch your warm coffee mug in hand after. 😉

EAT A HIGH PROTEIN BREAKFAST

We all remember the old adage from our school days, but it’s true that the meal which ‘breaks our fast’ is the most important one. What we eat in the morning also sets the tone for our energy levels throughout the day. Granted, the breakfast menu will be different for everyone and needs to cater to your own personal constitution. But eating protein in the morning helps to increase your alertness by boosting your dopamine levels. Protein “helps your brain produce neurotransmitters called norepinephrine and dopamine, which give you energy and make you feel awake and alert” (source)

Good sources of protein for breakfast include Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, eggs, quinoa, fish (tuna or smoked salmon) and oats. It’s also best to avoid sugar and processed foods in the morning because this will immediately spike your blood sugar levels and start to sap your energy before the day has even got going.

So, with a few simple evening and morning habits your morning doesn’t have to be something to dread. You can be bounding into your day, super bright and musical (or sporty) much to the chagrin of your sluggish neighbours.

Resources: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/

Nick Dale

The post How To Wake Up With More Energy appeared first on SA Shark.

The Healing Benefits of Water For Arthritis

Nick Dale — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 23:42:06 +0000

Water.

That trusty, plain ol’ transparent liquid that sits beside our morning coffee with a frown on its face, demanding we get our daily quota.

For many, water is like that nagging old aunt telling us to stay home and get an early night rather than hit the dance floor and show off our fabulous dance moves!

We’ve all been told about the many health benefits of H2O and that we need to drink 8 glasses a day.

And the truth is, water really is your best friend when it comes to treating your arthritis symptoms.

Nutritionist Dr Sarah Brewer says keeping hydrated is a “golden rule” for arthritis. “[One of my] golden rules is to drink two to three litres of fluids per day, including water, soups, tea, juices. “[It] maintains good hydration and flow of nutrients to your joints.” [Source link 1]

Since water is so full of purifying qualities and so easily within reach, it should be at the top of your list.

Photo by KOBU Agency on Unsplash

HOW DOES WATER HELP?

Water has many benefits including keeping a healthy digestive system, prevention of kidney disease, controlling our blood pressure and maintaining healthy looking skin.

Not so well known is that water helps support joint pain relief.

Some forms of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis, are caused by a reduction in the cartilage tissue between our bones. Cartilage is a “firm but flexible connective tissue in your joints” [Source 2]. This articular cartilage functions as a low friction and wear resistant tissue and 60% of it is made from water. (Think of it like the silky smooth oil you put in your car to keep it running.)

When our bodies lack water, naturally the cartilage in our joints are not being supported to do their job.

According to an article by Dr. Fereydoon Batmangheldij M.D called “Your Body’s Many Cries for Water” [3] a dehydrated joint increases inflammation because it needs to “get some form of fluid circulation from the capsule of the joint, hence the swelling and tenderness in the joint capsule”. Since water is not freely available, the joint takes its lubrication from inside the joint itself, hence causing inflammation.

Inflammation in your joints leads to that nagging dull ache you feel in your bones.

Drinking water may not cure your joint pain, but you can support the cartilage surfaces of your bones by boosting your acqua intake.

NOT JUST ANY WATER

Photo by Kate Joie on Unsplash

While tap water is deemed safe to drink by the World Health Organisation, and is certainly a cheap and accessible option, it is not necessarily the healthiest source for your hydration.

Why?

Many nutrionisits claim that the fluoride in water (Australia flouridates its tap water for dental health reasons) does not actually provide much benefit to our teeth and in fact could be linked to several adverse health outcomes. According to naturopath Tania Flack at 180nutrition.com.au, the fluoride that runs through our taps is not a naturally occuring calcium fluoride but is actually hydroflurosilicic acid. This is an unpurified substance that likely contains heavy metals which can have long term negative impacts on our health.

Unlike the water found in springs and mountain streams which is rich in naturally-occuring minerals, tap water is treated with a large number of chemicals to kill bacteria and not to mention the chlorine and other toxins it collects as it runs through the mains supply.

Water from the good ol squeaky tap in your kitchen also has a hardness to it which isn’t so friendly on your stomach.

Have I turned you off tap water enough now?

So what should I drink then??

FILTERED WATER

A cheap and efficient way to turn your tap water into a more consumption friendly liquid is to have a filter installed.

A filter takes out all the dirties and nasties you really don’t want to be digesting and gives you peace of mind while you sip your daily H2O quota.

If installing a filter seems like too much of a hassle, you can now buy a filter jug from companies like BRITA.

An added bonus is that water filters are known to “reduce the risk of gastrointestinal disease by more than 80 percent by removing cryptosporidium, e-coli and giardia from drinking water. [Source 4]

ALKALINE WATER

Alkaline water has soared in popularity in recent years. You’ve probably noticed the fancy slim looking alkaline water bottles lined up in the water section of your local supermarket.

But this isn’t just a fancy new sales gimmick, alkaline water has real benefits to your overall health.

The science behind this is that the water is engineered to have a higher pH level than tap or regular bottled water.

Why is a high pH level helpful?

A pH level is a measurement of how acidic or alkaline something is.

According to healthline.com, a pH value ranges from 0 – 14:

Acidic: 0.0 – 6.9
Neutral: 7.0
Alkaline (or basic): 7.1 – 14.0

There is a lot more to this, but in general when your body falls below neutral into an acidic state, it puts you at a greater risk of contracting disease or chronic illness, gaining weight, and experiencing pain and inflammation (joint pain and arthritis).

You can achieve a more alkaline state by eating more alkaline-forming foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds and loads of greens! Likewise you can avoid an acidic state in your body by reducing foods such as grains, beans, meat and dairy products – and coffee (that’s a tough one I know).

Another way to do it is by drinking more alkaline water. This is particularly helpful if you are an athlete or like to do regular high energy cardio workouts such as sprinting. When you put your body under cardiorespiratory stress you build up lactic acid. A study has shown that drinking alkalized water may help reduce this lactic acid buildup and help with the fatigue caused by intense exercise. The mineral supplementation present in alkaline water can especially help with this if you have deficiencies such as a lack of magnesium. [Source 5]

DON’T JUST DRINK IT, SWIM IN IT

Photo by Efe Kurnaz on Unsplash

The wonders of water and how it can help your body extend beyond simply drinking it.

Exercising in water can be very effective in managing joint pain.

For many people with chronic arthritis, walking, running or regular workouts start to become just too painful and difficult. A far more effective way to keep your body moving and flexing those joints is to get in a pool, preferably a heated pool.

Known as hydrotherapy, water exercise is a soothing and gentle way for people with arthritis to build strength, relax sore muscles and relieve stiff joints. If you stand in chest deep water, your legs are given a break as the pressure is taken off a third of your body weight. If you have stiff and aching knees, back and hips, you will find it much more comfortable and easier to move in water than on land.

You don’t need to be a swimmer to gain the benefits of water exercise. There are all kinds of hydrotherapy style exercises you can do. Even simply walking through waist high water is a great way to move your joints easily and gain strength. Options range from private one-on-one sessions with a physiotherapist (if water exercise is new for you) to water aerobics classes in groups.

If you don’t already do it, find a pool you can slip into on a regular basis and let the healing powers of water soothe your joints and make you feel alive again!

So, there is a lot more to nature’s transparent liquid than we think.

Treat your joint pain holistically by embracing the powers of healthy, healing water.

Main Image by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Other sources:

3. Special report: “Your Body’s Many Cries For Water” by Dr. Fereydoon Batmanghelidj, M.D.

waterforhealth.co.uk

byronbaydetoxretreats.com.au

Nick Dale

The post The Healing Benefits of Water For Arthritis appeared first on SA Shark.

10 Foods to Soothe Your Arthritis

Nick Dale — Mon, 09 Mar 2020 23:42:55 +0000

You visit your local GP regularly. You take your medication. But what else can you do to ease your arthritic pain and free up your stiff joints?

While there is no diet that can cure arthritis completely, there are certain foods that if consumed regularly, can help improve your flexibility and ease your symptoms.

At South Australian Shark Cartilage, we are all about finding natural alternatives that are both effective and healthy at the same time.

Here are 10 foods with specific properties to help ease arthritis pain and improve flexibility.

1. OILY FISH

If you like fish, you’ll be happy to know that the oily variety (such as salmon, mackerel and sardines) are full of omega—3 fats. And why is this important? According to Arthritis Australia; “Studies show that eating foods rich in omega-3 fats can help reduce inflammation, particularly in rheumatoid arthritis”. (Footer Link #1)

Since inflammation is known as the leading cause of arthritis, it’s worth making oily fish dishes a regular part of your diet. Embrace those tasty and healthy salmon salads or even start your day with fish with some makerel or sardines on toast for breakfast.

2. NUTS AND SEEDS

Another fantastic source of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids are nuts and seeds. The Arthritis Foundation says; “Some nuts are rich in magnesium, l-arginine and vitamin E, which may also play a role in keeping inflammation under control.” *

Should I devour just any old nut? You may ask. Moore from the Arthritis Foundation says “Ideally, you should reach for raw, unsalted nuts”. Some of the best to include in your diet are walnuts, peanuts and almonds.

3. AVOCADO

Now who doesn’t love the wonderfully versatile fruit (yes!) that is avocado? And if you’re vegan, avocados are a great alternative to fish because they are another rich source of omega-3.

In fact, avocados also contact Vitamins E, C , zinc and Selenium. According to AvasunHealth, “Studies have shown that diets rich in these vitamins and minerals have positive effects on arthritis complications, such as pain, stiffness and inflammation.” (Footer Link #2)

They are so full of nutrients that adding them to your weekly shopping list should be a no-brainer.

4. OLIVE OIL

When the Mediterraneans stumbled on the wonder of the olive and its oil, we really have never looked back.

This versatile and much loved oil is so full of health benefits it’ll leave you breathless. Most importantly it has strong anti-inflammatory properties which is just what you need to lubricate your joints and ease your pain. The oil of the olive contains a particular antioxidant called oleocanthal which has been shown to work similarly to the anti-inflammatory drug, ibuprofen. (study link)

Some scientists claim that the oleocanthal in 3.4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil has a similar effect as 10% of the adult dosage of ibuprofen. (study link)

So take an olive leaf out of the Greek’s books and make olive oil a part of your daily diet – throw it in your smoothies, mix it in your avocado mash or douse it over your sourdough toast.

5. DAIRY (YOGURT)

There are varying opinions about including dairy in your diet and whether or not it is beneficial. It all comes down to the individual and how you respond to various dairy products. Of course for those who are lactose intolerant, dairy isn’t an option, but if you’re wondering if dairy is worth adding to your menu, the Arthritis Foundation states that yogurt could help decrease inflammation. “Yogurt is associated with decreased inflammation, decreased insulin resistance and it may prevent type 2 diabetes,” Dr. Hu says.

Yogurt’s claim to glory is its probitiocs which provide anti-inflammatory power according nutrition researchers.

6. BROCCOLI

Just take a look at a head of broccoli and you feel healthy! But this vibrant green vegetable isn’t just a pretty face. It contains a compound called sulforaphane “which researchers have found could help prevent or slow the progression of osteoarthritis (OA).” (Footer Link #3)

In fact, the nutritional density of broccoli is so powerful that clinical trials are currently underway to test the benefits of eating the vegetable on joint function and pain associated with osteoarthritis. “The participants will eat (broccoli) soup once-a-day, for 4 days-a-week for 3 months.” to test the effects of sulforaphane (SFN) levels on pain and function. Researchers hope that a positive result will provide a better alternative to invasive surgery.

Stock up on your broccoli dosage with a tasty spinach and broccoli soup. Yum!

7. BONE BROTH

Bone broths have become a trendy and popular addition to the health nut’s diet of late, but real bone broth (not store-bought soup stock) is full of dozens of different nutrients including amino acids, collagen, gelatin and trace minerals.

Simmering the parts of an animal that can’t be eaten directly such as bones and marrow, tendons and ligaments over a few days was how our ancestors made the most of the beast and all its nutrients.

But how does it help with arthritis and joint pain?

The collagen released while stewing the bones in the broth helps to restore the cartilage in our joints which degrade as we age. Nutritionist Dr. Josh Axe highly recommends consuming bone broths to protect joints due to the collagen constituents of the broth as well as it being a rich source of gelatin. Gelatin provides a lubricant between bones that “helps them “glide” without friction.” (Footer Link #4)

Like shark cartilage, bone broths also contain chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine – two important compounds which help to reduce inflammation and arthritis.

Sipping on a cup of warm bone broth (both chicken and beef are beneficial) is an excellent new habit to add to your health routine. You’ll not only be healing your gut and boosting your immune system, but also reducing inflammation and easing arthritic pain.

8. GARLIC

Garlic has been known as a fantastic defense against colds and flus and an immune system booster for a long time.

But you may not know that this faithful little spice contains an anti-inflammatory compound called diallyl disulfide which limits the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Garlic makes the Arthritis Foundation’s list of best spices for Arthritis; “garlic can help fight inflammation and may even help prevent cartilage damage from arthritis.” (Footer Link #5)

This is a great excuse to keep adding garlic to your meals as much as possible, sprinkling it raw over your salads or even eating a whole clove each morning.

9. TURMERIC

Turmeric is now showing up everywhere as a trendy addition to your usual snack/meal/biscuit/smoothie – heck, why have an ordinary old coffee when you can have a turmeric latte?!

So why the popularity? Turmeric doesn’t just add a dashing yellow colour to your favourite smoothie, it is a spice full of powerful healing properties.

What’s most important for your arthritis is that turmeric contains curcumin which targets inflammatory cells and blocks certain enzymes that lead to inflammation.

Adding turmeric to your cooking is definitely worthwhile, but throwing it in smoothies and muffins will not give you the anti-inflammatory benefits you need. Turmeric only contains 2 to 9 per cent of curcumin so it’s best to supplements for a more efficient gain. Dr. Horwtiz from the University of Arizona College of Medicine says to look for turmeric supplements that say “standardized to 95% curcuminoids”. (Footer Link #6)

TIP: Make sure your turmeric contains ‘piperine’ or black pepper extract. The pepper combined with curcumin increases its bioavailability by 2,000 percent.

NOTE: The supplement may interact with some prescription medications and can possibly aggravate gall stone disease, advises Dr. Horwitz. Check with your doctor about dosage and if it’s a safe option.

10. GINGER

And we save one of the best for last!

This feisty spice is considered one of the best foods to combat arthritis symptoms. Like garlic and turmeric, it is also contains anti-inflammatory properties and it’s a great anti-oxidant too.

The chemicals in ginger that block inflammation pathways in the body are gingerol and shogaol.

TIP: Ginger is best used in its fresh form. An excellent way to get your ginger fix is by boiling it in a tea. Use a one-to-two inch piece of ginger and boil it for 30 to 60 minutes. *

—-

While it’s important to seek medical advice for treating your arthritis and often prescription medications are necessary, it’s very clear that our ever-loving Mother Earth has provided us with an abundance of wonderful healing foods. So, there are foods out there to help soothe your arthritis. Try them!

Try adding these colourful foods to your plate and watch your body love you for it.

Sources

Nick Dale

The post 10 Foods to Soothe Your Arthritis appeared first on SA Shark.