The most common skin & joint complaints

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common joint pain disorder in the US. More than 32.5 million US adults have osteoarthritis. It seems to affect women more frequently, with around 62% of those with osteoarthritis being women.

So, why does osteoarthritis occur? As we age, the flexible connective tissue that cushions the ends of your bones (i.e., your joints) starts to soften.

This makes it particularly susceptible to gravity, wear & tear, and other lifestyle factors which can take their toll on joints over time. These changes usually happen slowly but can eventually lead to several uncomfortable joint issues such as:

• Joint pain & inflammation
• Joint swelling
• Joint tenderness 
• Reduced joint mobility and function

[1]

Rheumatoid arthritis

In the US, approximately 1.3 million people have rheumatoid arthritis. Similar to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis also involves cartilage breakdown, resulting in joint pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.

However, unlike osteoarthritis, the root cause of rheumatoid arthritis is autoimmunity - meaning the immune system attacks the body’s tissues, resulting in progressive damage to joints and cartilage, inflammation, and pain. [2]

Fine lines, wrinkles & reduced skin elasticity

From around the age of 25, the first signs of aging begin to appear on the skin. The breakdown of collagen, loss of hyaluronic acid, and repetitive facial motions that “etch” lines into our skin can all contribute to the development of wrinkles over time. 

While wrinkles may not be completely reversible, supplementation with natural compounds like collagen may help to improve their appearance and restore a more youthful glow! [3]

Acne-prone skin

Acne occurs when follicles and pores become blocked with oil and dead skin cells, resulting in pimples, blackheads, and white heads. While acne is often associated with the teen years, it can affect people of all ages with root causes stemming from poor gut health, hormonal imbalances, diet, stress, and sluggish detoxification.

Natural supplements that target some of these root causes may help support clearer skin from the inside out!

Collagen: The missing link

We can sum up one of the main factors involved in age-related changes to joint and skin health in one word: collagen!

So, what exactly is collagen? Collagen is the main structural protein in the body, acting as a “scaffolding” of sorts found abundantly in connective tissue, skin, tendon, bone, and cartilage. Pretty much anytime you move your body, you can thank collagen! [4]

Once we reach our mid 20’s it's thought that we lose around 1-2% of our collagen each year. That means eventually, we cannot replace the collagen we are losing as quickly as it’s breaking down. Age-related collagen deterioration sometimes leads to painful joints and even osteoarthritis. [5]

Collagen makes up around 80% of your skin's structural matrix and plays an essential role in skin hydration and elasticity. Over time, collagen loss can make the skin thinner and more fragile, contributing to the development of wrinkles/fine lines and dull and dry skin. [6] 

Smoking, sun exposure, and even pollution contribute to the acceleration of collagen breakdown. [7]

The good news is that collagen supplements have been shown to significantly support joint comfort and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while boosting skin hydration! [8] [9]

The role of oxidative stress

Oxidative stress can play a significant role in both the skin’s aging process and the development of joint conditions and chronic inflammation.

Oxidative stress is an imbalance between reactive oxygen species, free radicals, and antioxidants in the body, resulting in damage to cells and tissues.

We’re constantly bombarded by free radicals from our metabolic processes like energy production and detoxification and our environment.

By supporting the body’s antioxidant defenses through a vibrant diet rich in colorful wholefoods like berries, green veggies, and natural supplementation, we can help neutralize damaging free radicals to protect the health of our skin and joints. [10] [11]  [12]

Understanding the supplements

Hydrolyzed Collagen Complex

Our Hydrolyzed Collagen Complex is fully hydrolyzed, meaning the collagen has been broken down into easily absorbable amino acids for maximum absorption and contains five bioactive types of collagen peptides for optimal, broad-spectrum results!

Collagen may support:

• Fine lines & wrinkles
• Dull, dry skin
• Loss of skin elasticity
• Occasional joint discomfort/pain
• Healthy cartilage

What does the research say?

A randomized placebo-controlled study found that individuals who took collagen supplements saw improvements in skin moisture and elasticity, as well as reduced wrinkles and roughness after 8 weeks. [13]

Another study performed 2 randomized placebo-controlled trials to examine the effect of daily supplementation with collagen peptides on skin hydration and collagen density. After 8 weeks, they found that collagen supplementation significantly increased skin hydration and collagen density. [14]

A meta-analysis examined the efficacy of collagen supplementation on osteoarthritis symptoms. After evaluating the relevant randomized placebo-controlled trials, they concluded that treatment with collagen led to a significant reduction in total scores of the WOMAC index (a scoring system assessing pain, stiffness, and function in osteoarthritis) and other pain scores. [15]

Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM

Our Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM is a targeted and high-potency joint care supplement containing 8 research-backed, active ingredients that offer advanced support for joint health, inflammation, gut health, healthy cartilage, and overall wellness. 

Glucosamine Chondroitin may support:

• Occasional joint pain/discomfort
• Healthy inflammatory processes
• Antioxidant defenses to protect joints and skin
• "Leaky gut", which may be associated with skin issues like acne
• Digestive discomforts like bloating 

What does the research say?

Our formula contains glucosamine sulfate, the most absorbable and clinically studied form of glucosamine for joint health. It has been shown to present in the cartilage as quickly as 4 hours after taking it! [16]

A study over 2.5 years found that women taking 1500mg of daily glucosamine reduced their risk of developing knee osteoarthritis significantly compared to the placebo group [17].

A large randomized controlled study found that daily supplementation with chondroitin sulfate in patients with osteoarthritis reduced symptoms of knee pain compared to the placebo group and had a significant impact on pain levels and inflammation [18]. 

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that daily supplementation with glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate may slow down the progression of knee osteoarthritis [19]. 

Turmeric with Ginger

Turmeric has taken the spotlight over the past few years due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties resulting from its phytochemical constituent known as curcumin, shown to help relieve joint discomfort and promote overall well-being.

Our Turmeric with Ginger supplement is standardized to contain 95% curcuminoids, but we’ve also added BioPerine, which has been shown to dramatically enhance the absorption of curcumin!

Turmeric with Ginger may support:

• Occasional joint pain/discomfort
• Healthy inflammatory processes
• Antioxidant defenses
• Indigestion/nausea
• Heart health

What does the research say?

A randomized placebo-controlled trial in patients with osteoarthritis found that taking a turmeric supplement for 3 months reduced symptoms of osteoarthritis by 58%. Osteoarthritis patients experienced improved joint pain, stiffness, and physical functioning. [20]

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, including more than 1800 patients with osteoarthritis, reported that turmeric supplementation had a similar level of effectiveness to traditional pain relief preparations but with a 12% lower risk of side effects. [21]

Another meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials examined the effects of ginger supplementation on inflammation and oxidative stress. They found that biomarkers of inflammation such as C-RP, IL-6, and TNF alpha were significantly decreased, while total antioxidant capacity was increased considerably with ginger supplementation. [22]

Vitamin K2 + D3 Complex & AdaptoZen Vitamin D3 + K2 Drops

Shockingly, statistics show that around 40% of Americans may be deficient in Vitamin D, which plays an essential role in controlling inflammatory pathways.

low levels of Vitamin D have been associated with rheumatoid arthritis and the severity of arthritis symptoms in those that develop it. To boost and maintain Vitamin D levels quickly, we offer Vitamin K2 + D3 capsules or new AdaptoZen Vitamin D3 + K2 Drops formulated for enhanced absorption with vitamin K2 for safe calcium transport within the body and bone health. [23]

Symptoms Vitamin D3 + K2 may support:

• Occasional joint pain/discomfort
• Inflammation
• Fatigue
• Weakened immunity
• Low mood

What does the research say?

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials examined the effect of Vitamin D supplementation on knee osteoarthritis.

Researchers found that Vitamin D supplementation was associated with a significant reduction in the WOMAC index (a scoring system assessing pain, stiffness, and function in osteoarthritis). [24]

Black Seed Oil

Our Black Seed Oil is cold-pressed to ensure the highest quality. It contains a potent health-boosting compound known as thymoquinone.

It can act as a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that may help fight the damaging free radicals associated with aging and joint pain. Black Seed Oil is also rich in nourishing omega-3 fatty acids that your skin loves!

Black Seed Oil may support:

• Occasional joint pain/discomfort
• Inflammation & oxidative stress
• Skin & brain health
• Immunity 
• Cardiovascular wellness

What does the research say?

A clinical trial examined the efficacy of the oral administration of black cumin seed oil in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Researchers found that those taking black seed oil experienced a significant improvement in their disease score activity and reduced swelling and stiffness compared to the placebo. [25]

A randomized placebo-controlled trial found that when patients with rheumatoid arthritis took Black Seed oil, they significantly increased IL-10 (a cytokine with potent anti-inflammatory and immune balancing mechanisms) compared to placebo. Researchers concluded that Black Seed might support healthy inflammatory processes/oxidative stress in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. [26]

Chia Seed Oil

Chia Seed Oil is rich in essential omega 3 fatty acids and antioxidants that can help to balance inflammatory pathways and promote healthier, glowing skin.

Our Chia Seed Oil capsules are produced using advanced CO2 extraction technology to ensure the highest quality and purity and are an ideal vegan alternative to fish oil and fatty fish.

Chia Seed Oil may support:

• Inflammation & oxidative stress
• Skin & brain health
• Overall wellness

What does the research say?

While research on chia seed oil and joint/skin health is scarce, some studies demonstrate the benefits of essential components of chia seeds like nourishing omega-3 fatty acids.

For example, a meta-analysis of clinical trials found that 3-4 months of omega 3 fatty acid supplementation may significantly reduce reported joint pain intensity, morning stiffness, and the number of painful joints. [27]

AdaptoZen Superfood Greens

Our groundbreaking new AdaptoZen Superfood Greens Powder is an incredibly comprehensive formula bursting with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory phytonutrients from ingredients like turmeric, ginger, rosehips, green veggies, and more to support joint health and oxidative stress.

It also contains a whopping 5 Billion CFU of probiotics to keep a balanced gut microbiome - one of the foundations of healthy skin!

AdaptoZen Superfood Greens may support:

• Healthy inflammatory processes
• Antioxidant defenses
• Occasional joint pain/discomfort
• A balanced gut microbiome 
• Skin health
• Digestive regularity
• Low immunity
• Metabolism 

What does the research say?

A randomized controlled trial showed that supplementation with rose hip powder might reduce stiffness and pain in those suffering from osteoarthritis (particularly of the knee and hip). [28]

A small pilot study found that the consumption of pomegranate extract was able to significantly improve disease activity in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis while also reducing oxidative stress status! [29]

Probiotic with 40 Billion CFU

With research showing an important link between the gut microbiome and skin health (including acne!), a probiotic supplement is a perfect addition to any skincare regimen.

Our Probiotic with 40 Billion CFU contains 4 clinically proven strains of beneficial bacteria and prebiotic fiber, all delivered with targeted MATREK Bi-Pass Technology to guarantee that the beneficial bacteria arrive intact without being harmed by stomach acid!

Symptoms probiotics may support:

• Acne
• Imbalances in gut flora known as “dysbiosis”
• Bloating
• Irregularity
• Constipation

What does the research say?

Research has suggested that acne may be related to imbalances in the gut microbiome. While this mechanism is not entirely understood just yet, it’s been found that patients with acne have distinct differences in the diversity of their gut microbiome compared to those without acne. [30]

A randomized controlled trial found that supplementation with Lactobacillus acidophilus could significantly reduce acne lesions in those taking antibiotic treatments versus the use of antibiotics alone. [31]

Final Thoughts

We hope this article has helped you make the right NutriRise supplement choice based on your unique needs and that you’ll soon be experiencing happier, healthier joints and more youthful, glowing skin!

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to our customer advocate team at hello@nutririse.com!

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended for use as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any dietary supplement.