The lead nutritionist for Dr Vegan has recommended the “best supplement” for joint pain and inflammation, and it’s a natural remedy that has been used for thousands of years
One nutritionist is on a mission to alleviate the joint pain plaguing Brits, advocating for a potent natural supplement renowned for its analgesic properties for centuries. Shona Wilkinson, the lead nutritionist at Dr Vegan, is recommending that Britons embrace a time-honoured natural remedy to combat joint pain and inflammation.
She’s championing the use of turmeric supplements, particularly praising the compound Curcumin found within, which she cites as “excellent for joints” and also touts its antioxidant benefits for digestion. Turmeric, the vibrant yellow spice, has been celebrated for its medicinal qualities for over 4,000 years, originating in the ancient practice of Ayurvedic medicine in India.
Despite her endorsement of turmeric supplements, Shona pointed out a significant misunderstanding: “The most common misconception people have is that taking a standard turmeric supplement helps their joints, which is not the case.” She insists that Brits must scrutinise the curcumin content in their supplements, warning that without this crucial component, the supplement won’t be effective in managing joint pain.
According to the Arthritis Foundation, curcumin aids joint health by inhibiting proteins and enzymes that contribute to inflammation and discomfort, and it has shown promise for those with osteoarthritis due to these properties. Shona suggests that a “good starting dose” is 3mg of curcumin per kilogram of body weight per day, adding that most turmeric powders contain about 2% of this active ingredient.
As such, an average-sized individual would need to consume approximately 3,400mg of the spice each day to achieve this dosage. While most people can tolerate high levels of turmeric consumption, Shona cautions that it can lead to gastrointestinal distress, including symptoms like nausea or diarrhoea.
