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Supplements

Supplements: this page covers what people in the UK most often ask about supplements. Written in plain English and reviewed by a First Contact Practitioner (HCPC PH128483).

Clinically reviewed · Louis Maxwell, HCPC PH128483 · 16 September 2026

Educational information for people in the UK living with arthritis — not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Check medicines and exercises with your GP, pharmacist or rheumatology team. For emergencies call 999; for urgent advice use NHS 111. See our medical disclaimer, editorial standards and claims policy.

Sources & References

Sources used for this article are listed below. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal advice.

  1. Source: NICE — Osteoarthritis in over 16s: diagnosis and management (NG226)
  2. Source: NHS — Osteoarthritis
  3. Source: Arthritis UK — Diet and arthritis
Glucosamine Most-studied joint supplement. Glucosamine sulfate 1,500 mg/day gives modest knee OA pain relief for some people.MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) Organic sulfur compound. Small trials show modest pain and stiffness improvements in knee OA, often stacked with glucosamine.Turmeric & curcumin Some small trials suggest curcumin may modestly ease knee OA pain and stiffness, but evidence is limited and it is not equivalent to an NSAID.Omega-3 fish oil Coming soonBest evidence is in rheumatoid arthritis: 2.7 g+ EPA/DHA per day reduces morning stiffness and tender joints.Collagen peptides Hydrolysed peptides and undenatured type II collagen — mixed, limited evidence for osteoarthritis symptoms, safety and medicine checks.Collagen alternatives Vegan, halal and allergy-safe options when collagen is off the table — turmeric, MSM, algal omega-3, vitamin C and D, with doses.Ginger Coming soonPlant-based anti-inflammatory. 500–1,000 mg extract per day modestly eases knee OA pain and stiffness.

Supplements are not a substitute

The strongest evidence in arthritis care is for movement, weight management and an anti-inflammatory diet. Use supplements as a small addition, not a replacement, and speak to your GP or pharmacist before starting one — especially if you take prescription medication.

Diet hubExercise hubKnee joint supplements (educational)Osteoarthritis guide

Where to go next

  • Disclaimer — Disclaimer. From Living With Arthritis, a UK registered charity (no. 1218461) publishing plain-English, educational arthritis and frailty information.

This is general information, not a substitute for personalised medical advice.