Joints sit at the intersection of collagen synthesis and inflammation. Vitamin C is the rate-limiting cofactor for collagen hydroxylation; without enough, collagen is structurally weak. Copper and manganese run the cross-linking enzymes. Omega-3s reduce the inflammatory cascade that drives osteoarthritis pain. Vitamin D and magnesium support the bone surface beneath the cartilage. Joint pain that doesn't respond to NSAIDs often responds to fixing these inputs. These 48 whole foods are ranked by how many of the key joints nutrients a typical serving delivers (≥10% DV each).