At some point in our lives we all suffer from various types of aches and pains due to a variety reasons, like injury, stress, pinched nerves or disease. As we age these issues tend to increase, and dealing with the aches and pains in a manageable way is important so we can go about our day with minimal discomfort. Back pain, joint pain, headaches and migraines, and a host of all kinds of bodily pains can get in the way of living life to the fullest. And keeping the body in good health is the best way to make sure these problems don’t slow us down.

There are many different vitamins, minerals, and other ingredients that can help alleviate aches and pains. White willow bark and ginger are herbs that act on prostaglandins, the hormone-like compounds that cause inflammation and pain. Bromelain is an enzyme derived from pineapple that reduces swelling, promotes blood circulation, speeds recovery and relieves pain. Thiamine is a substance that builds sheaths that cover nerves, thereby helping to relieve pain.

Joint and cartilage pain is a particularly common affliction that troubles many people. Arthritis is caused by the erosion of the protective cartilage around the joints. Wear and tear can lead to stiffness and pain associated with osteoarthritis and the debilitating inflammation of surrounding tissues associated with rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder. Glucosamine can help build cartilage and has had some success in treating arthritis pain. Niacinamide, a form of niacin, can also help with arthritis, particularly in the knees.

Antioxidants, like vitamin C, vitamin E and zinc, are important nutrients that play a large role in combating cell damage. Essential fatty acids like fish oils and evening primrose oil can decrease inflammation.

Back pain, along with joint pain, is perhaps the most common source of pain. Brought on by poor posture, sedentary lifestyles, injury and so on, back pain can be address with vitamins C and D, and calcium, magnesium and manganese are nutrients that strengthen bones and cartilage and can help with the pain. Glucosamine builds the tissue that supports spinal disks, and flaxseed oil, an omega-3 fatty acid, has anti-inflammatory properties that can lessen back pain.

Headaches, whether tension, vascular or migraine headaches, can severely interfere with your ability to focus, function and enjoy life. Eye strain, jaw alignment, weather changes, sinusitis, stress, hormonal fluctuations, head injury, sleeplessness and food sensitivity can all trigger this mild to debilitating form of pain. Maintaining adequate levels of calcium and magnesium along with vitamins C and B can significantly help with some headaches. The frequency and severity of migraines can be alleviated with 5-HTP, a building block of the neurotransmitter serotonin, low levels of which can cause migraine headaches.