7 Best Supplements for Inflammation

  • Home
  • /
  • Blog
  • /
  • 7 Best Supplements for Inflammation
Best Supplements for Infammation

Best Supplements for Inflammation | Frequently Asked Questions

Do you suffer from inflammation? If so, you’re not alone.

Inflammation is a common problem that many people deal with on a daily basis. There are many different causes of inflammation too.

Inflammation can manifest in different ways depending on the individual, ranging from chronic inflammation to rheumatoid arthritis to just your ordinary soreness.

The good news is that there are many supplements available that can help fight inflammation and improve your health!

In this blog post, we will discuss the best supplements for inflammation and how they can help you feel better!

Please keep in mind supplements are lightly regulated by the FDA. Their stated claims have no guarantee. They aren’t cures or treatments for any diseases.

Food, rest, and other self care practices are the real keys to managing chronic inflammation! Please check with your doctor before starting any supplement program.

Please note we include items that we trust will be useful to our visitors. If you click one of the links on our site, we may get a commission.

Let’s dive in!

Best Inflammation Supplements

  1. Best Overall Turmeric for Inflammation – Bio Schwartz
  2. Best Turmeric Alternative – Superior Labs
  3. Best for Sustained Release – Thorne
  4. Best Turmeric Power – Bulk Supplements
  5. Best for Sensitive Stomachs – MegaFood
  6. Best for Highest Concentration of Turmeric – Naturewise
  7. Post-Inflammatory Response – Life Extension

1 – Best Overall Turmeric for Inflammation – Bio Schwartz

  • Price = $16.91
  • # of Servings = 30
  • Price per Serving = $0.56
  • Product Reviews = 4.5/5 (78,920 reviews)
  • Serving Size = 3 veg capsules
  • Taste / Absorption = Unflavored / Bioactive for fast absorption
  • Labeled Effect = Supports natural joint and healthy inflammation support
  • Food Allergens = None
  • Pros = Premium turmeric very high quality, #1 Amazon bestseller in category “Turmeric Herbal Supplements”, fast absorption
  • Cons = 3 capsules per serving, contains no other vitamins, minerals or herbs, similar to other products

About Turmeric Curcumin

Turmeric Curcumin capsules from BioSchwartz includes black pepper extract to enhance absorption and bioavailability.

Turmeric Curcumin contains 95% curcuminoids, the most active compound in turmeric root.

However, this supplement does not contain anything besides black pepper and turmeric.

As the #1 bestseller on Amazon in a crowded category, BioSchwartz’s Turmeric Curcumin tops our recommendations.

Made By Bio Schwartz:

Since its launch in 2015, BioSchwartz has been an industry-leading health and wellness e-commerce company. According to ReviewMeta.com, Bio Schwartz gets 4.3/5 average adjusted rating from 2,703 verified reviews.

  • Start = 2015
  • Revenue = $5 Million
  • Employees = 25
  • Mission = To create a better quality of life for each customer by providing a full range of high-quality professional grade vitamins and supplements.
  • Third Party Certifications = GMP Certified
  • Third Party Reviews = 4.3/5 average adjusted rating 2,703 reviews

2 – Best Turmeric Alternative – Superior Labs

  • Price = $20.95
  • # of Servings = 120
  • Price per Serving = $0.17
  • Product Reviews = 4.8/5 (777 reviews)
  • Serving Size = 1 Vegetarian capsule
  • Taste / Absorption = Unflavored
  • Labeled Effect = Support normal inflammatory response
  • Food Allergens = None
  • Pros = High quality bromelain ingredients for inflammation, lots of reviews and high rating, some scientific support
  • Cons = Contains no other vitamins, minerals or herbs

About Bromelain

The traditional people of Central and South America used “pineapple dressings” to decrease inflammation and treat skin problems, as well as stomachaches and indigestion.

Bromelain, which is produced primarily from fresh pineapples’ stems and flesh, is a strong protein-digesting enzyme that has been used for centuries.

Overall, Bromelain is a pineapple-derived enzyme that has been shown to aid with a variety of health issues.

Some scientific research reports Bromelain improves digestion and the immune system, as well as reduces inflammation.

As you do your own research, please notice how the flooded the market is for “turmeric supplements for inflammation”.

If you are looking for a turmeric alternative for inflammation, Bromelain made by Superior Labs is a great choice.

Made by Superior Labs:

Began in 2007, geared for athletes, and has FDA, GMP certification. Mission statement emphasizes purity, testing, and quality. According to ReviewMeta.com, Superior Labs has an average adjusted rating of 4.3/5 with 3902 verified reviews.

  • Start = 2007
  • Revenue = $6 million
  • Employees = less than 25
  • Mission = purity, testing, and quality
  • Third Party Certifications = NSF, GMP
  • Third Party Reviews = average adjusted rating of 4.3/5 with 3902 reviews

3 – Best for Sustained Release – Thorne

  • Price = $55.0
  • # of Servings = 60
  • Price per Serving = $0.92
  • Product Reviews = 4.8/5 (26 reviews)
  • Serving Size = 2 capsules
  • Taste / Absorption = Unflavored
  • Labeled Effect = Helps maintain the body’s normal inflammatory response
  • Food Allergens = None
  • Pros = Limited clinical research supports higher overall absorption
  • Cons = Fewer reviews

About Meriva 500-SF

Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant that has been used in Asia for thousands of years. Curcumin is an antioxidant with a long history of use. It supports joint, liver, gastrointestinal, eye, and heart health.

Meriva 500-SF has some limited clinical research supporting it’s claim to be “29x more absorbable than ordinary curcumin.”

However, this is not a fast absorption supplement. Instead of your body absorbing all the curcumin first, this supplement releases a higher amount of curcumin over time.

The downsides of this supplement are clear however: not many reviews and higher price per serving.

As most turmeric curcumin products are not sustained release, if you want sustained release you’ll most likely need to pay a higher price per serving.

If you’re in this category, this is a great choice.

Made By Thorne:

Founded in 1984 and based out of New York. According to ReviewMeta.com, Thorne Research gets a 4.4/5 average adjusted rating from 8,718 verified reviews.

  • Start = 1984
  • Revenue = $171 million
  • Employees = 496
  • Mission = empower individuals to live healthier for longer through personalized, scientific testing and solutions
  • Third Party Certifications = NSF, cGMP, TGA
  • Third Party Reviews = 4.4/5 average adjusted rating from 8,718 verified reviews

4 – Best Turmeric Power – Bulk Supplements

  • Price = $15.96
  • # of Servings = 25
  • Price per Serving = $0.63
  • Product Reviews = 4.8/5 (1366 reviews)
  • Serving Size = 1000 milligrams (about ½ tsp)
  • Taste / Absorption = Unflavored powder
  • Labeled Effect = Fights many different inflammations
  • Food Allergens = None
  • Pros = 95% curcuminoids very high quality, powder
  • Cons = Contains no other vitamins, minerals or herbs

About Turmeric Extract

Turmeric is a spice made from the Curcuma longa plant, which has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for millennia.

If you’re looking for an unflavored turmeric powder to dash into your hot cup of tea in the morning, this is a great choice.

Made By Bulk Supplements:

Bulk Supplements started in 2011 and is based in Nevada. Its main manufacturing facility is FDA registered. They are known keep prices low by producing supplements in bulk without fancy packaging. According to ReviewMeta.com, Bulk Supplement’s average adjusted rating is 4.4/5 from 39,370 verified reviews.

  • Start = 2011
  • Revenue = $10 million
  • Employees = 50
  • Third Party Certifications = NSF, cGMP
  • Third Party Reviews = 4.4/5 from 39,370 reviews

5 – Best for Sensitive Stomachs – MegaFood

  • Price = $24.83
  • # of Servings = 30
  • Price per Serving = $0.41
  • Product Reviews = 4.7/5 (45 reviews)
  • Serving Size = 2 tablets
  • Taste / Absorption = Unflavored
  • Labeled Effect = Supports a healthy inflammation response for the whole body
  • Food Allergens = None
  • Pros = Delivers very high dosage of turmeric extract with turmeric root for minimum of 475 mg curcumin per serving, fast absorption, natural source, ok on empty stomach
  • Cons = Fewer reviews

About Turmeric Curcumin Extra Strength

Turmeric Strength Extra Blend provides 500 mg of turmeric root extract and 200 mg of turmeric root per serving for a guaranteed minimum of 475 mg of curcuminoids.

In comparison, most supplements on this list average 200-250 mg per serving.

This supplement also includes BioPerine, a black pepper extract that aids in the absorption of curcuminoids.

Finally, this supplement contains a real food blend, and can be taken on an empty stomach.

The only downside to this supplement is the fewer number of reviews (if this supplement had more reviews we would have ranked #1, but in our ranking criteria, reviews are important).

Made By Mega Food:

MegaFood started in 1973 and is a verified B-Corporation, which means they meet higher standards for quality, transparency and sustainability. MegaFood provides tons of science, gives back to the community, and is transparent about their supply chain. According to MetaCritic, MegaFood has a 4.3/5 average rating based on 7,100 reviews.

  • Start = 1973
  • Revenue = $67 million
  • Employees = 200
  • Mission = working toward a world where everyone is truly nourished
  • Third Party Certifications = B Certification, USDA Organic Certification, Non-GMO Project Verified, Vegan, Certified Kosher, 125+ Pesticide Free, Certified Gluten-Free
  • Third Party Reviews = 4.3/5 with 7,100 reviews 

6 – Best for Highest Concentration of Turmeric – Naturewise

  • Price = $14.99
  • # of Servings = 30
  • Price per Serving = $0.49
  • Product Reviews = 4.7/5 (2344 reviews)
  • Serving Size = 3 vegan capsules
  • Taste / Absorption = Ginger flavored capsule
  • Labeled Effect = Helps reduce inflammatory stress
  • Food Allergens = None
  • Pros = contains 500 mg of 95% curcuminoids plus 1750 mg of regular turmeric root
  • Cons = Similar to other products on the market, 3 capsule serving size

About Turmeric Curcumin with BioPerine

Turmeric Curcumin with BioPerine black pepper is very similar to other products for inflammation.

However with a 500 mg of 95% extract and an incredible 1750 mg of turmeric root per serving, this supplement made by Naturewise has the highest concentration of turmeric.

It’s only significant downside is a 3 capsule serving size and similarity to other turmeric / black pepper supplements for inflammation.

Made by Naturewise:

Founded in 2012 in California, Naturewise aims to promote health and inspire wellbeing. According to ReviewMeta.com, Naturewise has a 4.2/5 average adjusted rating from 32,542 verified reviews.

  • Start = 2012
  • Revenue = $31 million
  • Employees = less than 25
  • Mission = promote health and inspire wellbeing
  • Third Party Certifications = Manufactured in US
  • Third Party Reviews = 4.2/5 average rating from 32,542 reviews

7 – Best Post-Inflammatory Response – Life Extension

  • Price = $10.50
  • # of Servings = 30
  • Price per Serving = $0.35
  • Product Reviews = 4.7/5 (56 reviews)
  • Serving Size = 1 softgel
  • Taste / Absorption = Unflavored
  • Labeled Effect = Encourages healthy tissue rejuvenation to help you feel like your old self again
  • Food Allergens = None
  • Pros = Unique formula
  • Cons = None

About Pro-Resolving Mediators

Pro-Resolving Mediators uses natural compounds that are called specialized pro-resolving mediators.

These help to promote a healthy post-inflammatory response, and also helps to clear away cellular debris that can build up and cause further inflammation.

Most supplements focus on inhibiting or preventing inflammation. What makes this supplement is the focus on “post” inflammation, or managing inflammation once it’s there to stop it from getting worse.

However, this supplement doesn’t have many reviews.

Made By Life Extension:

Life Extension began in 1980 and is still going 40 years later. In 2021 ConsumerLab.com voted Life Extension as #1 Rated Catalog/Internet Merchant. According to ReviewMeta.com, Life Extension’s average adjusted rating of 4.1/5 from 24,224 verified reviews. 

  • Start = 1980
  • Revenue = $168 million
  • Employees = 500
  • Mission = Achieve your goals with the best nutritional products that science can offer
  • Third Party Certifications = GMP, Non-GMO
  • Third Party Reviews = average adjusted rating of 4.1/5 from 24,224 reviews

What factors do we use to rank supplements?

1 – Price: What’s the price of the supplement? What’s the cost per serving?

  • At Eating Enlightenment we value quality over price. However, all else being equal, then price comes into consideration. 

2 – Reviews: How many reviews for each product? What’s the average rating? How many third party reviews?

  • We strongly believe in third party reviews. Many supplement companies list positive reviews on their website, but third party reviews include negative comments. We always go with third party reviews.

3 – Reputation: How reputable is the brand behind the supplement? How long has the brand been around? What’s their mission? 

  • We believe that a company’s intention is highly important and should be one of your top purchasing decision factors.

4 – Taste / Absorption = What’s the taste? How quickly does your body absorb the supplement? Do reviews mention any negative side effects like an upset stomach?

5 – Perceived Therapeutic Effect = What beneficial effects or feelings does this supplement promote?

6 – Food Allergens = Does the company provide allergen info?

7 – Science / Certifications: Does the company list transparent scientific studies on their website? Do third party certifications test the company’s supplement for quality control? How many certifications does the company have?

8 – Pros/Cons: What are the pros and cons of each supplement? How is the supplement unique? For what situations is this supplement best?

Who benefits most from supplements for inflammation?

People with inflammation will benefit the most from supplements for inflammation.

But what is inflammation exactly?

Inflammation definition

Inflammation is the body’s response to an injury or irritation. The inflammatory response helps to protect the body from further damage and starts the healing process.

There are many different causes of inflammation, including:

  • Injury
  • Bad posture
  • Insect bites
  • Poison ivy
  • Dry skin
  • Sunburn
  • Acne
  • Eczema

Signs of inflammation

Signs of inflammation include:

  • Skin that is hot to the touch
  • Skin that is red or has a rash
  • Swelling
  • Pain
  • Itching
  • Joint pain

If you are experiencing any of these signs, you may have inflamed skin.

But these are just the visible signs of inflammation. Inflammation can impact the immune system and be related to other health struggles like inflammatory bowel disease.

Who may not benefit from supplements for inflammation?

Pregnant women, those who are breastfeeding, children, and people with kidney disease should not take supplements for inflammation without consulting a doctor first.

Of course many people live life pain free. The lucky ones! If you are pain free and there’s no inflammation, then of course inflammation supplements are inappropriate.

Risks, side effects and other precautions?

Side effects of anti inflammatory supplements include:

  • an upset stomach
  • diarrhea
  • constipation
  • bloating
  • gas

If you experience any of these side effects, stop taking the supplement and talk to your doctor. You may be allergic to the ingredients in the supplement.

When should I take supplements for inflammation?

The precise time you take supplements for inflammation does not matter so much. However you may want to pair your supplements with food to reduce the risk of an upset stomach.

Food sources to decrease inflammation

You can also get anti-inflammatory benefits from certain foods. These include:

  • Omega-three fatty acids: found in fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna, as well as in flaxseeds and chia seeds
  • Turmeric: a spice often used in Indian cuisine
  • Ginger: of ginger include fresh ginger, ground ginger, and pickled ginger.
  • Green tea: Drinking green tea may help reduce inflammation.

These are just a few examples of anti inflammatory foods. Adding more of these foods to your diet may help to decrease inflammation.

Inflammation supplement dosages

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The dosage of anti-inflammatory supplements varies depending on the supplement, your age, weight, and health condition.

But, before taking any supplements for inflammation, it is best to speak with a doctor or healthcare professional to determine the best dosage for you.

How can I decrease my inflammation quickly?

If you are looking for a quick way to fight inflammation, here are a few things you can do:

  • Apply an ice pack to the spot of inflammation
  • Lift the inflamed area higher than normal (if your elbow is sore, lift your elbow above your head)
  • Gentle stretching
  • Acupuncture

How soon after taking inflammation supplements will I feel better?

For some people, they may feel relief from their symptoms within a few days. For others, it may take weeks or longer to experience any health benefits.

If you struggle with chronic inflammation or rheumatoid arthritis, it’s unlikely your pain will go away. Your pain can decrease, but feeling 100% should not be expected.

Best Supplement for Inflammation – Next steps

If you have inflammation, then applying ice is the best way to go. You can also try some gentle stretches or acupuncture.

Incorporating some foods with natural anti inflammatory agents is also a good idea. For example, you can try adding some garlic into your meals.

If you’re still sore then you can consider taking a tylenol or aspirin to see if that helps.

As a last resort or as a way to complement the above means, you can try a supplement for inflammation.

Finally, fish oil supplements in general can improve cardiovascular health. If you are struggling to find pain relief, it’s possible that you’ve also been sedentary and your body isn’t moving.

About the Author

Jared Levenson is a former binge eating wrestler turned Zen Buddhist Monk, Internal Family Systems counselor and nutrition wellness coach. He's helped hundreds of people through universal meal principles and internal family systems to make peace with food, stop binge eating, and find true health and wholeness.

@jared_levenson

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked

{"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}