As a keen runner who played many ball sports in my youth, I’m familiar with the aches and pains that come with aging and the cumulative impact on joints, ankles, knees, wrists, elbows, and shoulders.
Mornings bring stiff, painful ankles, and my shoulder pain disrupts my sleep at night. While these are my issues, many others endure much greater discomfort.
It’s why I turned to Joint Buddy to alleviate my joint discomfort. Here’s my experience and what you need to know before spending your hard-earned money.
Pros
- Twenty-one premium ingredients.
- Ingredients used are supported by scientific research and clinical trials.
- No reported side effects.
- Made in the USA.
- Manufactured in FDA-registered facilities
- Excellent reviews across all websites and social media. Including many independent review sites.
- Budget-friendly
- Excellent dosages, especially Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
Cons
- FlexAgain is a better formula but is more expensive.
- It is only available on the Joint Buddy website.
Quick Verdict
I had a great experience taking Joint Buddy and it is a very effective joint pain supplement. The adequately dosed formula and the cost effective price makes it a standout joint supplement. It’s why it’s ranked in my best joint supplement list.
Who Is Joint Buddy?
Joint Buddy supplements are manufactured by Joint Buddy, which has been leading the charge for more specialized health supplement manufacturers, garnering a considerable following over the last few years.
With a growing reputation within the industry, Joint Buddy has all the attributes to make a statement in a crowded world of often underdosed, limited ingredients, hiding the ingredient dosages in a preparatory blend and all too often at a premium price.
Joint Buddy bucks the trend and comprehensively lists all its ingredients and dosages so you can see immediately what is within the blend and, if you are inclined, conduct your research on these ingredients.
Joint Buddy Ingredients
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) 1200mg
Osteoarthritis affects millions of people and causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. Studies suggest that MSM supplements could help with arthritis symptoms and relieve joint pain.
In one study, adults over 50 who took an MSM supplement experienced improvements in joint pain, stiffness, and swelling compared to those who took a placebo [1].
In another study involving hip or knee osteoarthritis, participants reported better arthritis symptoms and improved daily activities with MSM supplementation [2].
Regular exercise can lead to muscle soreness and discomfort due to oxidative stress. MSM supplements may help improve post-workout pain and tissue stress [3].
Small studies suggest that MSM could help reduce exercise-induced oxidative stress [4].
Green-Lipped Sea Muscle 375 mg
The New Zealand mussel is a shellfish native to New Zealand and is known for its potential health benefits, particularly for joint health.
Green-lipped mussels contain several anti-inflammatory compounds, including omega-3 fatty acids, especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
They also contain chondroitin sulfate, a component of connective tissues like joints and bones that may reduce inflammation.
In addition to these anti-inflammatory nutrients, the mussels are a good source of zinc and an excellent source of iron, selenium, and several B vitamins.
The anti-inflammatory properties of Green-Lipped Mussels can help alleviate joint pain and inflammation [5].
They contribute towards a healthy musculoskeletal system, improving flexibility and mobility in our joints. They can also help to reduce the symptoms of mild arthritis.
Glucosamine Sulfate 1500mg
Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound found in the human body and is often used as a dietary supplement to treat joint disorders like osteoarthritis.
It helps maintain and repair cartilage in joints and serves as a building block for various functional molecules in the body, including those that develop and maintain cartilage within joints [6].
Taking glucosamine might increase the cartilage and fluid around joints and help prevent their breakdown.
Glucosamine can reduce pain and improve function in people with knee or hip osteoarthritis. Studies worldwide have shown that glucosamine reduces joint pain, especially among people with osteoarthritis [7].
Combined glucosamine and chondroitin supplements have been shown to be as effective as osteoarthritis medications such as celecoxib (CeleBREX) [8].
Glucosamine is often used as a supplement to treat symptoms of various inflammatory conditions.
Early studies suggest that glucosamine supplements may help prevent the progression of osteoporosis post-menopause. Glucosamine appears to help reduce the weakening of bones by supporting healthy bone growth.
In a study, taking 1,500 mg of glucosamine hydrochloride plus 1,200 mg of chondroitin sulfate daily for 28 days lowered C-reactive protein (CRP) — a biomarker of systematic inflammation — by 23% compared with placebo [9].
Chondroitin Sulfate 150mg
Chondroitin Sulfate is a naturally occurring compound found in the human body, particularly in the cartilage cushions the joints. It’s often used as a dietary supplement for joint health.
It’s believed to aid joint health by minimizing cartilage loss. Chondroitin seems to reduce the rate of cartilage breakdown, helping relieve pain from arthritis [10]. It also appears to improve joint movement, elasticity, and strength while reducing pain.
People commonly take Chondroitin Sulfate supplements to help manage osteoarthritis, a common bone disorder that affects the cartilage surrounding your joints.
Taking as a supplement increases the synthesis of various cartilage components while preventing cartilage breakdown [10].
Alfalfa Powder 37mg
Alfalfa Powder is derived from the alfalfa plant, a perennial plant that has long been used in traditional medicine.
Alfalfa may help neutralize the buildup of uric acid that causes much joint pain. Trace minerals in the herb can also help strengthen and rebuild joint tissues.
Alfalfa may also help treat and manage muscular aches and conditions like bursitis. Alfalfa possesses high levels of vitamins C and B, calcium, and antioxidant compounds [11].
All of these can reduce inflammation in the joints and around the body, strengthen the immune system, and prevent chronic disease and oxidative stress.
Alfalfa is a nutrient-dense plant food that fits the profile of an anti-inflammatory food. Some studies have reported that it suppresses the production of inflammatory compounds known as cytokines.
Some alternative healthcare providers believe this effect can reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
Devil’s Claw 1.5mg
Devil’s Claw, scientifically known as Harpagophytum procumbens, is a plant native to South Africa. It’s often used as a dietary supplement for joint health.
It contains plant compounds called iridoid glycosides, particularly harpagoside, which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds can significantly improve osteoarthritis and general rheumatic pain and stiffness [12].
Devil’s Claw has been shown to improve joint mobility and reduce the pain and swelling associated with arthritis. Several studies show that taking Devil’s Claw for 8 to 12 weeks can reduce pain and improve physical functioning in people with osteoarthritis [13].
Devil’s Claw is one of the most frequently used home remedies for arthritis. It is a natural anti-inflammatory that relieves the symptoms of arthritis and digestive problems [14].
Cetyl Myristoleate 1.5mg
Cetyl Myristoleate (CMO) is a fatty acid naturally occurring in some animals, including cows, whales, beavers, and mice. It’s gaining popularity as a dietary supplement for inflammatory response and joint comfort.
CMO has been shown to manage arthritic symptoms in patients with osteoarthritis. A specific blend of acetylated fatty acids, including CMO, soy lecithin, and fish oil, seems to decrease pain and improve knee range of motion and function in patients with knee osteoarthritis [15].
CMO is theorized to be a 5-LOX pathway inhibitor and decrease the expression of prostaglandins and leukotrienes that trigger systemic inflammation.
Improved inflammatory response with CMO ultimately leads to improved joint range of motion and comfort.
CMO is a natural omega-5 fatty acid that promotes joint comfort and flexibility. Scientists believe cetyl myristoleate acts on the inflammation that causes joint discomfort [16].
Several studies have explored the beneficial effect of cetyl myristoleate on patients with arthritis and fibromyalgia.
Boron 1.5mg
Boron is a trace mineral naturally present in many plants and foods. It has several potential health benefits, particularly for joint health and arthritis:
Boron is vital in reducing the enzymes that cause an inflammatory response, thereby reducing joint pain and stiffness associated with arthritis.
A 2015 review found that greater boron intake (3–10 mg a day) was associated with fewer cases of osteoarthritis, reducing cases by as much as 60% [17].
People with osteoarthritis had lower concentrations of boron than people without osteoarthritis. A 2018 review found that people with rheumatoid arthritis also had lower levels of boron.
Boron can support bone health in general, particularly in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis. It may do this by reducing the loss of essential minerals and increasing calcium and vitamin D levels.
Copper 0.15mg
Copper is an essential mineral vital to maintaining health. It helps form collagen, a protein that makes up bones and tissues.
Copper combines with other elements to help catalyze certain reactions. Some of these reactions include the production of collagen and elastin, which help repair connective tissue.
Certain types of collagen also support joint health. Along with other micronutrients, like vitamins D and E, collagen boosts collagen activity in the knees, hips, and cartilage. Collagen may play a key role in protecting against osteoarthritis.
Copper is essential for bone strength. It contributes to energy production and helps your body build and repair tissues.
Vitamin A – 45 mcg
Vitamin A is essential for healthy skin, hair, nails, and bones. It’s an antioxidant that regulates cell growth and development and maintains a healthy immune system.
It may also be associated with a higher risk of bone health issues, including hip fractures and osteoporosis [18].
Vitamin C – 1.5 mcg
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant essential to joint health and immune function.
It may ease pain, reduce inflammation, and protect against cartilage damage associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis [19].
It may also help reduce serum uric acid levels in the blood, which could potentially help protect against flare-ups of gout.
Vitamin E – 1 mg
Vitamin E is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It helps produce collagen and elastin, which help repair connective tissue.
Certain types of collagen also support joint health. Along with other micronutrients, like vitamin D and vitamin C, collagen boosts collagen activity, which affects cartilage in the knees, hips, and more.
Vitamin B6 – 1.5 mg
Vitamin B6 plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy joints. This essential nutrient participates in various processes that contribute to joint health, including collagen synthesis, preserving cartilage and connective tissues, and reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
Vitamin B12 – 15 mcg
Vitamin B12 is essential for red blood cell formation, cell metabolism, nerve function, and DNA production.
It helps keep your body’s blood and nerve cells healthy and helps make DNA, the genetic material in all your cells. However, there is no specific mention of its benefits for joint health in the sources.
Zinc 0.3mg
Zinc is an essential mineral that plays several vital roles in your body. It is necessary for the activity of over 300 enzymes that aid in metabolism, digestion, nerve function, and many other processes.
Some of these processes include the production of collagen and elastin, which help repair connective tissue [20]. Certain types of collagens also support joint health.
Zinc is essential for bone strength. It contributes to energy production and helps your body build and repair tissues.
Niacin 1.5mg
Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is an essential nutrient that plays several vital roles in your body.
Niacin may help ease arthritis. It is involved in over 400 biochemical reactions in your body, many of which are related to obtaining energy from your food.
These processes include the production of collagen and elastin, which help repair connective tissue. Certain types of collagens also support joint health.
Niacin is essential for bone strength. It contributes to energy production and helps your body build and repair tissues.
Selenium 30mcg
Selenium is necessary for the activity of over 300 enzymes that aid in metabolism, digestion, nerve function, and many other processes.
Some of these processes include the production of collagen and elastin, which help repair connective tissue [21]. Certain types of collagens also support joint health.
L Histidine 15mg
L-histidine is an amino acid that plays several important roles in the body. It’s involved in the production of histamine, a vital chemical necessary for digestion, immunity, and sexual function, and it is a key neurotransmitter in the nervous system.
One key benefit of L-histidine for joint health is its role in controlling inflammation.
It is a valuable treatment for arthritis, helping to lessen the symptoms [22]. Studies of rheumatoid arthritis have shown a clear link between decreased histidine levels in the blood and the onset of rheumatoid arthritis.
Chromium 30mcg
Chromium is an essential nutrient that plays several vital roles in your body. It preserves bone minerals by reducing calcium loss in the urine, promoting collagen production, increasing adrenal DHEA levels, and improving insulin regulation. It also helps the skeleton regulate energy metabolism.
Riboflavin 1.5mg and Thiamine 1.5mg
Riboflavin and Thiamine, also known as vitamin B2, are essential nutrients that play several vital roles in your body.
It helps your cells develop and work well. It changes carbohydrates from foods into fuel for your body. Vitamin B2 also helps release energy from proteins.
Manganese 0.47mg
Manganese is a trace mineral naturally present in many foods and added to others. It plays a significant role in important body processes, including metabolism and thyroid function.
Manganese is essential for bone health, including bone development and maintenance. Manganese supports bone mineral density when combined with the nutrients calcium, zinc, and copper [23].
This is particularly important in older adults. Studies have shown that about 50% of postmenopausal women and 25% of men aged 50 or older will suffer from an osteoporosis-related bone break.
Research suggests that taking manganese with calcium, zinc, and copper may help reduce spinal bone loss in older women [24].
In addition, a one-year study in women with weak bones found that taking a supplement with these nutrients and vitamin D, magnesium, and boron may improve bone mass.
Joint Buddy Price
Joint Buddy is considered the budget joint supplement option, but that doesn’t mean it’s not effective, as shown by the formula breakdown.
Price ranges from $33.99 to $87.99, depending on how many bottles you purchase.
| Joint Supplement | 1 Bottle | 3 Bottles | 6 Bottles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joint Buddy | $33.99 ($1.13 per serving) | $61.99 ($1.03 per serving) | $87.99 ($0.97 per serving) |
Who Is Joint Buddy For?
People with Joint Pain on a Budget
Joint Buddy is an ideal choice for individuals experiencing joint pain who are looking for a cost-effective solution. It offers a comprehensive formula with twenty-one premium ingredients, including MSM, glucosamine sulfate, and chondroitin, all supported by scientific research and clinical trials.
Despite its affordability, Joint Buddy does not compromise on quality, making it the best option for under $30 monthly.
Active Individuals and Athletes
For those who lead an active lifestyle or engage in sports that put stress on the joints, Joint Buddy can help manage and alleviate joint discomfort.
Whether you are a runner or jogger or enjoy regular exercise, this supplement can support your joint health and enhance mobility. Including MSM and green-lipped sea mussels helps reduce inflammation and improve flexibility.
Aging Adults with Joint Stiffness
As we age, joint stiffness and pain can become more prevalent. Joint Buddy is well-suited for aging adults starting to feel the wear and tear on their joints.
Ingredients such as glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate are known to support joint health. They may help maintain cartilage and fluid around the joints, reducing stiffness and improving overall joint function.
My Experience With Joint Buddy
As someone who has always been active, whether running, playing sports, or enjoying outdoor activities, joint pain has become a significant part of my life as I’ve aged.
The cumulative impact on my ankles, knees, shoulders, and wrists has been noticeable, particularly in the mornings when my ankles feel stiff, and my shoulder pain disrupts my sleep.
Within about a week, the stiffness in my ankles in the morning started to ease. By the second week, I could get out of bed without that immediate pain, and my shoulder discomfort at night began to diminish, allowing me to sleep more soundly.
After just a couple of weeks, activities that used to be painful, like jogging or taking a long walk, became much more manageable. My mobility improved significantly, and the dull ache in my joints that I had grown accustomed to was barely noticeable.
Joint Buddy Customer Reviews
After many hours of searching for reviews on Joint Buddy, I found a few. The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with ratings between 4.6 and 4.7 out of 5.0.
Joint Buddy Side Effects
I experienced no negative side effects while using Joint Buddy, which was a pleasant surprise compared to other joint supplements I’ve tried.
The ingredients, such as MSM, glucosamine, and chondroitin, are generally well-tolerated, with rare mild side effects like stomach upset or headaches.
The natural components also did not cause me any issues. However, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor to ensure no potential interactions.
Join Buddy Alternatives
FlexAgain
FlexAgain is my go-to joint pain supplement. I take it daily because it’s simply the best. I’ve tried dozens of joint supplements, and none come close to FlexAgain.
It uses the correct dosages of 11 scientifically backed ingredients, including omega-3s, curcumin, glucosamine, and boswellia.
My experience with FlexAgain has been positive—improved mobility, reduced stiffness, and significant pain relief.
While it’s not the cheapest option, the comprehensive formulation and results make it worth the investment. The 90-day money-back guarantee also adds peace of mind.
You can read my in-depth guide in my FlexAgain review.
Golden Revive Plus
Golden Revive Plus from UpWellness is a popular joint health supplement for people seeking alternatives to cortisone injections or steroid medications for joint pain.
Despite its popularity, my experience with it was disappointing, as I saw no improvement in joint pain relief.
The formula contains six scientifically backed ingredients that are underdosed, limiting their effectiveness.
While Golden Revive Plus is generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects, its limited ingredient list and capsule form might not appeal to everyone.
You can read my in-depth guide in my Golden Revive Plus review.
Heal N Soothe
Heal n Soothe is a well-known joint supplement but falls short in effectiveness due to underdosed ingredients like turmeric and ginger.
Despite containing some well-backed components, such as boswellia and bromelain, the overall formulation doesn’t live up to its promises of pain relief.
Customer reviews often highlight dissatisfaction, particularly with subscription issues.
While it might offer mild improvements for some users, Joint Buddy has more comprehensive and adequately dosed ingredients, providing better value and results for joint health and pain relief.
You can read my in-depth guide in my Heal N Soothe review.
Summary
If you’re on a budget, Joint Buddy is a great product. Its comprehensive formula includes a strong dose of glucosamine sulfate, MSM, and chondroitin and helps with joint function and inflammation.
If you don’t want to spend the cash on FlexAgain, Joint Buddy is 100% the way to go.
Best Budget Joint Supplement
Joint Buddy
A budget joint supplement with key ingredients to reduce joint pain.
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References
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