The Best Supplements for Celiac Joint Pain and Arthritis

While gastrointestinal issues represent the classic symptoms of Celiac’s disease, there are a multitude of other ways this autoimmune condition can wreak havoc on a person’s health. It’s not uncommon for the antibodies produced from ingesting gluten to begin attacking other body parts and systems, and over time can result in serious damage if changes to a strict gluten-free diet are not made. One of the more painful and concerning symptoms I had before learning I had Celiac’s was joint pain.

Only being in my twenties, I didn’t understand how I could possibly be developing arthritis already. One season of track my freshman year of high school had been the extent of my running career (and I only did distance races at that, nothing higher-impact like long jumps or hurdles). In fact, one of the big reasons I didn’t pursue running into adulthood even though I enjoyed it was that I didn’t get very far before my knees started to hurt. Bad. I remember one beautiful day I had decided to go out for a run on a relatively flat, dirt trail. It seemed safe enough (thinking again of my joints). After about a mile and a half out, I started to feel it, but I only slowed my pace. Then it got worse. By the time I realized I should have turned around, it was too late. I could hardly walk. I sat off in the grass for a few minutes, panicking slightly (okay, a lot). Hoping the little break would ease the pain, I struggled to stand up, instead finding no relief at all. Even walking hurt now. I managed most of the way back to my car with a stiff-legged turtle’s pace, sometimes walking sideways just to keep from bending my knees.

I learned my lesson after that. No more running.

Of course, back then I didn’t have an inkling of an idea that this seemingly idiopathic case of arthritis was actually due to something I was eating. THAT connection didn’t come until years down the road. By then, I had taken up weight training, and although I did gain a little strength, I still struggled with squats and leg presses, feeling downtrodden about always resorting to light weights on leg day and having to wear my trusty knee sleeves. I was even taking glucosamine and chondroitin in a hopeful attempt to preserve the cartilage between my bones.

These measures were all in vain as I was unaware of the true cause of my achy joints, and was, quite literally, continuing to feed the inflammatory process. So once I was diagnosed, I dove into researching what I could do to reverse the damage in conjunction with a gluten-free diet. Outlined below are the supplements I tried to help me recover quickly and get me comfortably back on my feet again.

Box jumps, here I come! 🙂

Glucosamine and Chondroitin

Glucosamine and chondroitin are components of the normal cartilage between joints. As an oral supplement, it can help support this connective tissue that prevents bones from rubbing against each other during movement. These two distinct compounds can be purchased separately, but are often combined into one supplement. I even found a capsule that also has MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) and turmeric for an extra anti-inflammatory boost!

Note that some products may contain glucosamine and chondroitin derived from shellfish, so if you have such an allergy, be sure to check and make sure it is labeled as shellfish-free. Here is a highly-rated supplement available on Amazon, also gluten- and dairy-free https://amzn.to/3y6XYIf.

Fish Oil

The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, as well as being good for your cardiovascular system and brain. While consuming fish is suggested as part of a healthy diet, some people… like myself… have trouble getting past the taste and smell. Once in a great while I can tolerate salmon. Fortunately, fish oil capsules are an acceptable alternative if seafood doesn’t appeal to your tastebuds. And don’t fret about missing out on the benefits if you are vegetarian or vegan! There are several plant-based omega-3 supplements on the market, which are typically derived from sources such as algae, flaxseed, or hemp.

Collagen

Collagen is another component of cartilage (and skin, bones, and tendons, too). This protein has many benefits in addition to supporting joints, including maintaining skin elasticity (i.e. reducing wrinkles), building muscle, strengthening hair and nails, and preventing bone loss. There are different types of collagen depending on where in or on the body it’s found (the cartilage between joints is Type II), so if you’re looking for this supplement be sure to get the right kind. However, there are products that combine collagen from multiple sources to cover all the areas the protein can benefit. My favorite kind is a vanilla-flavored multi-collagen protein powder offered by Ancient Nutrition. I love it in my morning coffee! Buy it here https://amzn.to/4boAhJw.

Turmeric

If you like Indian cuisine, you’re in luck! Turmeric contains curcumin, which is the compound responsible for the spice’s anti-inflammatory properties. Initially, I was throwing it in just about every savory meal I made, from scrambled eggs to chicken and rice! Not that I would personally recommend it as an ingredient to every recipe (it’s very much an acquired taste too), but I was in a hurry to get rid of my joint pain as soon as possible. For the more palate-conscientious chef, turmeric goes well in curries, soups, and rice dishes. Or, be bold and try “golden milk” or a turmeric shot!

Summary

Everyone will need a different length of time to heal depending on how long and how much gluten was being consumed, and also how sensitive they are to the protein and in what manner(s) their body reacts to it. The supplements listed here are reputed for their powerful anti-inflammatory effects, particularly where the joints are concerned. Try one or all, whatever you feel you need to get yourself up and running again (pun intended). No one should have to be sidelined because of gluten-induced symptoms, so consider these natural remedies so you can return to chasing your dreams!