Body System
Joints
Cartilage + ligament integrity, inflammation
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.
Primary nutrients
The load-bearing nutrients â if these are deficient, this system shows symptoms first. Click any to see daily targets, top food sources, and supplements that supply it.
Additional supporting nutrients
Related systems
Systems that share a load-bearing nutrient with this one.