Cause of joint pain: Before you get started on a joint supplement, it’s important to get to the bottom of your symptoms to find the true cause and prevent more health effects. There are over 100 different kinds of arthritis, according to the Arthritis Foundation. The easiest way to find the cause of your symptoms is to go to your doctor, who will also be able to tell you which supplements are recommended and safe for you to take based on your current medications and medical history.
Whether you’re taking medications: Common prescriptions, including blood thinners, may interact with certain supplements taken for joint health and cause serious side effects. Always be sure to clear any new dietary supplement with your doctor or pharmacist before adding it to your daily rotation if you’re taking any medication, even though you can easily get most dietary supplements over the counter.
Food allergies: Some supplements for joint health may include common food allergens, such as fish, so be sure to check the product’s label for ingredients and look into the company from which you want to buy from.