7 Supplements That Will Help You Reduce Stress and Osteoarthritis

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High levels of stress tend to provoke physical symptoms, even in healthy people. People with osteoarthritis who experience acute stress can have joint pain, which in turn amplifies stress. This might result in sleeping problems, which can further increase a person's sensitivity to pain.

An osteoarthritis flare-up refers is a sudden and temporary increase in OA symptoms. The disease affects the joints’ cartilage making the bones within the joint rub together. This in turn leads to pain and stiffness. A flare-up can stem from several things, including:

- injury

- stress

- changes in the weather

Osteoarthritis is an extremely common problem that affects 27 million Americans. If you’re one of them, you may want to know how to prevent OA flare-ups. But it’s impossible to prevent them if you have high levels of stress. Luckily, you can fix both problems and live a pain-free life.

If left ignored, osteoarthritis in people with stress can result in chronic back pain which might be a sign of lumbar degenerative disc disease. Other symptoms of this condition include:

- Numbness or tingling in legs 

- Severe pain that radiates to the lower back of in extremities 

- Difficulty walking 

- Bladder or bowel control problems 

- Pain that gets worse while twisting or bending 

Luckily, lumbar degenerative disc disease is treatable. But it’s always better to prevent it. So, it’s time to learn how to control your stress. There are lots of ways to do this. One of them is supplementation which is no less effective than other ways. We’ve collected the top seven supplements that will help you relieve stress and osteoarthritis: 

1. Vitamin B-complex

The vitamin B-complex includes all water-soluble vitamins except for vitamin C: thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), pyridoxine (B6), biotin, folic acid, and the cobalamins (B12). B vitamins are vital for cell metabolism. Those who have a balanced diet should get a sufficient amount of B vitamins. But a vegan diet or an autoimmune disease like lupus can result in B12 deficiencies. 

Scientists claim that B-complex vitamins are linked to improved mood. Try a B-complex that contains at least 1 mcg B12 and 50 mg B6.

2. Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid

Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid is a chemical that’s produced in the brain and often taken as a supplement to alleviate anxiety, boost mood, relieve PMS symptoms, and treat symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

3. Melatonin 

Melatonin is a hormone produced by the brain that helps regulate sleep cycles. Since sleep and mood are directly connected, supplements containing melatonin can lower stress levels. It’s considered safe but can provoke side effects such as headaches, short-term feelings of depression, dizziness, and irritability.

4. Theanine 

Theanine is an amino acid that’s contained in green tea. It’s often used to treat anxiety and high blood pressure. Theanine might lower anxiety and blood pressure that typically occurs in high-stress response. Take theanine at 200 to 400 mg on an empty stomach.

5. Magnesium 

Magnesium is a mineral that your body needs to keep the nerve system and muscles healthy. Most people who have a balanced diet usually get enough magnesium, but the majority of Americans get less than they should. Magnesium supplements are considered safe, but side effects can include digestive problems, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

6. Valerian Root 

Valerian is an herb that’s commonly used for treating insomnia, anxiety, and stress. Supplements containing valerian root are considered safe for most adults, but the effects of long-term use are still unknown. Short-term side effects include headaches.

7. Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid that occurs naturally in the body and supports cellular function, especially in the brain. It also enhances mood and relieves stress. Supplements with phosphatidylserine are considered safe for most adults and children, but they can provoke side effects such as insomnia and digestive problems.