Mikaela Duffy Explains Naturopathy for Health

Are you seeing a bodyworker regularly to maintain a healthy spine and nervous system? Chiropractic care is fantastic for overall health and well-being, but adding supplements can enhance the benefits of your treatments. The right supplements can support joint health, reduce inflammation, and improve pain management—helping you get the most from your chiropractic adjustments.

If you’re already taking supplements for joint care, inflammation, pain relief, or digestive health but aren’t sure if you’re using the right ones, this guide will help you make more informed choices.

Glucosamine for Joint and Gut Health

Glucosamine is a well-known supplement for joint health & is derived from shark or bovine (cow) cartilage.  A lesser known fact is that glucosamine primarily works on the mucous membrane lining of the gut? By reducing inflammation in the digestive system, it indirectly supports joint health.

Glucosamine works for about 60-70% of people and should show results within 4-5 weeks at a dosage of 500mg per day. If it doesn’t help within that timeframe, it may not be the right supplement for you. It tends to be more effective for knee issues rather than ankle pain and may provide relief for individuals with inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis. If glucosamine is less than effective, an excellent alternative is Green Lipped Mussel at around 3000mg per day.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Inflammation Reduction

Omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in reducing inflammation throughout the body, making them beneficial for joint health, cardiovascular function, optimal good cholesterol ratio and general well-being. Sources of omega-3s include:

• Oily deep-sea fish (wild-caught, not farmed – salmon, sardines & mackerel)
• Flax oil and hemp oil
• Nuts and seeds such as walnuts, flaxseeds, hemp, Brazil nuts, and macadamia nuts

Fish oil supplements vary significantly in quality, so it’s important to choose high-purity products with low heavy metal content. If you would like to be more environmentally focused or are vegetarian you can also opt for algae-derived omega-3 supplements that offer a sustainable alternative. Krill oil is another option, particularly beneficial for individuals with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, or Type 2 diabetes, alongside joint issues. For best results, consult with a naturopath or other healthcare provider to determine the correct dosage for your needs.

Herbal Remedies for Pain and Inflammation

Several herbs have shown promising results in reducing inflammation and pain, particularly for arthritis sufferers.

• Rehmannia: Functions similarly to corticosteroids but without harmful side effects & is helpful with autoimmune issues
• Devil’s Claw: Known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties specific to the musculoskeletal system
• Echinacea: Supports immune health and helps with general inflammation
• Baical Skullcap: Used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory effects

These herbal remedies can be a natural alternative or supportive to conventional pain medications. However, working with a practitioner like myself will help determine which herbs are best suited to your specific condition and symptoms.

Magnesium and Electrolytes for Muscle Health

If you frequently experience muscle cramps or tightness, you may need a different approach. Magnesium and electrolytes are essential for muscle relaxation and nervous system balance. Tight muscles can interfere with spinal adjustments, making it crucial to address this issue.

Magnesium-rich foods include:

• Whole grains
• Nuts and seeds
• Leafy green vegetables

Electrolyte-rich foods include:

• Bananas
• Coconut water
• Himalayan salt
• Dates
• Vegetables

If muscle cramping persists, you may need to look deeper at potential root causes, such as medication side effects, lifestyle habits, or dietary imbalances.

Turmeric: The Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Superfood

Turmeric has long been immensely popular for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and pain-relieving properties. The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, has been widely studied for its ability to reduce inflammation and support overall joint health.  It is also warming to the gut and supports liver detoxification. 

When taken in high doses through supplementation, turmeric can be an effective natural analgesic for pain relief. To maximise absorption, look for turmeric supplements that contain black pepper extract (piperine) or opt for liposomal turmeric for better bioavailability.

Conclusion

Pairing the right supplements with your chiropractic care can enhance your body’s natural healing process, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility. Whether you’re looking to support joint health, relieve pain, or balance your nervous system, incorporating these targeted supplements can make a significant difference.

For personalised supplement recommendations, consultations are available with me in clinic face to face, or online.