Vitamins and Minerals for Joint and Muscle problems

Vitamin C is involved in the formation of collagen, which is important for the growth and repair of body tissues including bone and so may help to maintain healthy bones and joint tissues.

Vitamin E is also important for joint health and should be included in the multivitamin that you take.

Beta-carotene, a carotenoid, is the compound in plants like carrots that give them the yellow-orange colour. It is used by the body to create vitamin A and is an antioxidant like vitamins C and E. Antioxidants are a main protection against joint degeneration.

Minerals are important for bone and joint and muscle health, especially calcium and magnesium.

Calcium is necessary for strong healthy bones. Often digestive problems, such as coeliac disease, prevent the body from absorbing calcium. Calcium carbonate is a common supplement but is basically chalk in a form that is poorly utilised by the body and in fact has been linked with a greater risk of heart attack. It is best taken in an organic form that you would get from your diet, and with magnesium citrate, an organic form of magnesium, to improve absorption. As most people have plenty of calcium in their diet and quite low levels of magnesium, a supplement with a ratio of 2-1 in favour of magnesium is best for the body.

Boron is a mineral that helps the body to utilise vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and copper. Some research suggests it has a role to play in helping joints stay healthy but should only be taken in small amounts as large amounts can be toxic. It is found in green leafy vegetables. As a supplement it is best as a small amount in combination with other nutrients.