The Best Calcium Supplements Compared
The Best Calcium Supplement Compared
Calcium For Bone Loss
Let’s clear this up: Yes, AlgaeCal makes calcium supplements, and yes, we’re reviewing the top 5 calcium supplements here—including our own. But why should you trust our review?
Because there’s only one calcium supplement that’s clinically supported to increase bone density.
Most traditional calcium supplements can help slow bone loss, which is good. But wouldn’t you rather build new bone and actually increase your bone density?
How Does Your Calcium Supplement Compare to AlgaeCal Plus?
Body-friendly plant calcium
All 16 bone-building nutrients
Clinical studies show increased bone density
Easy to swallow capsules
No side effects
Builds healthy new bone at any age
The Best Calcium Supplement: The Scientists’ Choice
Since the 1930s, studies on calcium supplements have all come to the same conclusion: at best, they can slow bone loss. But they’ve never been able to actually increase bone density. That’s because most of the research focuses on two common types of calcium…
Calcium Carbonate & Calcium Citrate
Most calcium supplements use calcium from rocks because it’s cheap and easy to produce. However, these supplements only slow bone loss a little.
Finding a calcium supplement with its own clinical studies is rare, as the science behind calcium carbonate and citrate is well-established. But one plant-based calcium supplement was so unique that it led to new studies—with surprising results. For the first time, this supplement was shown to actually increase bone density!
In this review, we compare this unique plant-based calcium to other popular brands. We focused on two key questions:
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Does the supplement support all aspects of bone building?
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Are there clinical studies proving its effectiveness and safety?
Based on these questions, we ranked the top five calcium supplements in this category. Here’s how they performed and why:
Is the calcium supplement scientifically formulated to support EVERY aspect of building bone?
Yes! In fact, AlgaeCal is the ONLY supplement clinically supported to increase bone density.
That’s right! Even though there are hundreds of other types of calcium, AlgaeCal is the only one that’s backed by published clinical research to increase bone density. It’s all thanks to its multi-nutritional approach to bone health.
AlgaeCal Plus
16 Bone-Supporting Nutrients
120 Easy-to-Swallow Veggie Capsules Per Bottle.
Suggested Use:4 capsules daily (2 capsules twice a day with meals).
Quantity:30 day supply
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 4 Capsules Per Day
Servings Per Container: 30
Amount Per Serving
% Daily Value
Calcium 720 mg
(As AlgaeCal® M. Superspositum)
56%
Magnesium 350 mg
(As Magnesium Oxide & AlgaeCal® M. Superspositum )
84%
Vitamin D3 1600 IU
(As Cholecalciferol)
200%
Vitamin K 100 mcg
Vitamin K 100 mcg
Trace*
Boron 3.0 mg*
(As Boron Glycinate)
Trace*
Vitamin C 50 mg
(As Calcium Ascorbate)
56%
Potassium
(As AlgaeCal® M. Superpositum)
Trace*
Copper
(As AlgaeCal® M. Superpositum)
Trace*
Manganese
(As AlgaeCal® M. Superpositum)
Trace*
Silicon
(As AlgaeCal® M. Superpositum)
Trace*
Nickel
(As AlgaeCal® M. Superpositum)
Trace*
Phosphorus
(As AlgaeCal® M. Superpositum)
Trace*
Selenium
(As AlgaeCal® M. Superpositum)
Trace*
Vanadium
(As AlgaeCal® M. Superpositum)
Trace*
Zinc
(As AlgaeCal® M. Superpositum)
Trace*
*Daily Value not established
Other Ingredients: Vegatable cellulose (vegetarian capsule), magnesium stearate (vegetable grade), microcrystalline cellulose.
That’s a LOT of nutrients. However, clinical studies show that these minerals and vitamins are ALL needed to stop bone loss and increase bone density.
In short, AlgaeCal Plus delivers every nutrient your bones need, making it more effective than any other calcium supplement. How do we know? Three clinical studies back it up.
Are there clinical studies that show its efficacy and safety?
Yes! AlgaeCal Plus is the only calcium supplement in the world supported by clinical studies to increase bone density.
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In the first study, over 200 men and women took AlgaeCal for six months. Their bone density increased significantly across the board.
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In the second study, 414 post-menopausal women took AlgaeCal for 12 months. The smallest average bone density increase was 1.3% – a result that had never been seen before.
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The third study looked at long-term use. Over seven years, participants increased their bone density by an average of 1.04% each year – totaling a 7.3% increase! This study was so impressive it won the Ragus Research Award in 2016.
YES! I want to build brand-new youthful bone now!
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1 Month Supply
0%
OFF MSRPRetail Price:
$79/Month
1 Bottle of AlgaeCal Plus
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Best Value
6 Month Supply
25%
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6 Bottles of AlgaeCal Plus
Risk-Free Return Policy
Monthly Subscription
13%
OFF MSRP$69/Month
1 Bottle of AlgaeCal Plus Per Month
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3 Month Supply
13%
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3 Bottles of AlgaeCal Plus
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#2 – Caltrate Plus
Is the calcium supplement scientifically formulated to support EVERY aspect of building bone?
No, Caltrate Plus isn’t formulated to support every aspect of bone building. It provides a few of the nutrients needed to support bone health, but not all of them.
Specifically, it contains Vitamin D3, Vitamin K1, magnesium, copper, manganese, and zinc. That’s a good start. But remember, clinical studies show that 13 minerals and 3 vitamins are needed to increase bone density. And you need all 16 of these nutrients. Not some of them. So, Caltrate Plus does not have enough nutrients to stop bone loss or increase bone density.
It’s also worth noting the calcium in Caltrate Plus is calcium carbonate. And as we’ve covered, this is the most common form of calcium used in supplements because, as a rock-based calcium, it’s super-cheap.
Are there clinical studies that show its efficacy and safety?
No. Caltrate Plus isn’t supported by any clinical studies.
#3 – Nature’s Bounty Calcium + D3
Is the calcium supplement scientifically formulated to support EVERY aspect of building bone?
No, Nature’s Bounty Calcium + D3 doesn’t fully support bone building. It only provides two key nutrients: calcium and vitamin D3.
While these are important, they’re just the beginning. Vitamin D3 helps your body absorb calcium, and that’s good. But you actually need 16 different nutrients to effectively increase bone density.
So this formula is missing some critical nutrients, like:
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Vitamin K2, which guides calcium to your bones once it’s absorbed.
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Magnesium, a key part of bone structure that also helps prevent bone loss. Magnesium and calcium work together to support functions like digestion, and without the right 2:1 calcium-to-magnesium ratio, you could experience side effects like constipation.
It’s also important to note that the calcium in Nature’s Bounty is calcium carbonate, the cheapest and most common form used in supplements. As we mentioned earlier, calcium carbonate doesn’t do much beyond slowing bone loss.
Are there clinical studies that show its efficacy and safety?
No. Nature’s Bounty Calcium + D3 isn’t supported by any clinical studies.
#4 – Spring Valley Calcium
Is the calcium supplement scientifically formulated to support EVERY aspect of building bone?
No, Spring Valley Calcium isn’t fully designed to support bone building. It only offers one key nutrient: 600 mg of calcium carbonate.
While calcium is essential, it’s just one of the nutrients that bones need. To effectively increase bone density, you need 16 different nutrients working together. This formula is missing critical nutrients, like:
-
Vitamin D3, which helps your body absorb calcium.
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Vitamin K2, which directs calcium to your bones after it’s absorbed.
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Magnesium, a key component of bone structure that also prevents bone loss. Magnesium and calcium work together to support vital functions like digestion, and without the proper 2:1 calcium-to-magnesium ratio, you might experience side effects like constipation.
It’s also important to note that the calcium in Spring Valley is calcium carbonate, which is the cheapest and most common form used in supplements. Unfortunately, calcium carbonate doesn’t do much beyond slightly slowing bone loss.
Are there clinical studies that show its efficacy and safety?
No, Spring Valley Calcium isn’t backed by any clinical studies showing it can increase bone density.
#5 – Naturelo Bone Strength
Is the calcium supplement scientifically formulated to support EVERY aspect of building bone?
Naturelo Bone Support contains plant-based calcium and important nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin D3, Vitamin K2, magnesium, zinc, manganese, potassium, boron, and silica. This is a good start and covers many of the nutrients needed for bone health.
However, clinical studies show that to effectively increase bone density, you need 13 essential minerals and 3 key vitamins. Naturelo Bone Support doesn’t provide all 16 of these nutrients. Additionally, it only includes 200 mg of magnesium, which falls short of the ideal 2:1 calcium-to-magnesium ratio needed for optimal bone health. This imbalance may limit its effectiveness in supporting bone density and overall bone health.
While Naturelo uses plant-based calcium, which is better than rock-based forms like calcium carbonate, it still lacks all the nutrients necessary to increase bone density effectively.
Are there clinical studies that show its efficacy and safety?
No, Naturelo Bone Support isn’t backed by clinical studies showing it can increase bone density.
Best Calcium Supplement Takeaways
What’s the most important thing you want from your calcium supplement? If you have low bone density or are experiencing bone loss, the answer is clear: you want to increase your bone density.
So, which calcium supplement is best for you? The answer is just as clear: the one that actually increases your bone density.
And there’s only one calcium supplement on the planet that’s clinically proven to do just that—safely and naturally: AlgaeCal Plus.
The facts speak for themselves. AlgaeCal’s formula is designed to support every aspect of bone-building. In three clinical studies, participants who took AlgaeCal saw their bone density increase. Thousands of people have successfully built new bone with AlgaeCal.
If you’re seeking a natural approach to combat bone loss, AlgaeCal Plus is the calcium supplement for you. And the best part? With our money-back guarantee, you have nothing to lose—except the worry about your bone health!
YES! I want to build brand-new youthful bone now!
Special Introductory Offer Today + Free US Shipping
1 Month Supply
0%
OFF MSRPRetail Price:
$79/Month
1 Bottle of AlgaeCal Plus
Risk-Free Return Policy
Best Value
6 Month Supply
25%
OFF MSRP$59/Month
6 Bottles of AlgaeCal Plus
Risk-Free Return Policy
Monthly Subscription
13%
OFF MSRP$69/Month
1 Bottle of AlgaeCal Plus Per Month
Risk-Free Return Policy
3 Month Supply
13%
OFF MSRP$69/Month
3 Bottles of AlgaeCal Plus
Risk-Free Return Policy
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is AlgaeCal Plus?
AlgaeCal is a South American marine algae species, Lithothamnium superpositum (or Algas calcareas as the locals call it). This kiwi-fruit sized algae is sustainably hand harvested in the atlantic ocean, sun dried, then milled into a powder. There is no extraction process or additives used – just pure whole food calcium and minerals coming from a living plant. Watch the AlgaeCal Harvesting video here. AlgaeCal powder is the foundational ingredient in our products, AlgaeCal and AlgaeCal Plus. AlgaeCal powder has significant advantages over traditional calcium supplements that are pure calcium because AlgaeCal contains all 13 known essential bone supporting minerals: calcium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, nickel, silica, copper, vanadium, potassium, zinc, boron, selenium and strontium. Traditional calcium carbonate and calcium citrate supplements are made from limestone and marble – and your body does not absorb rocks very well – so plant-sourced AlgaeCal has the benefit of being body-friendly and better absorbed into your bones. In fact the superfood mineral combination naturally found in AlgaeCal has been clinically supported to increase bone density in adults – but traditional calcium supplements only slow annual bone loss a little. In other words, after age 40, we typically lose 1% of our bone density every year until death – so most will become osteoporotic if they live long enough. Traditional calcium supplements slow this annual bone loss from 1% to ¾% – so it only helps a little. But AlgaeCal Plus actually increases bone density – and if taken with Strontium Boost, the combination is even more effective at increasing bone density.
- How many AlgaeCal Plus capsules should I take and when should I take them?
To maximize your bone-building, take 4 capsules of AlgaeCal Plus a day. (This was the dosage that led to the most significant bone density increases in clinical trials).
We recommend splitting the daily 4 capsule dose into 2 servings of 2 capsules throughout the day. Your body can only absorb 500mg of calcium at a time, so taking more than 2 AlgaeCal capsules in one serving would lead to unabsorbed calcium.
And finally, it’s best to take your AlgaeCal Plus with food. That’s because taking calcium with food increases how well you absorb it. When you eat, your stomach produces acid that dissolves the minerals in AlgaeCal Plus so they can be properly absorbed when they reach your intestinal tract.
For more information on scheduling your AlgaeCal supplements with meals –– and any prescription medication or supplements you’re currently taking –– click here.
- What ingredients are in AlgaeCal Plus?
AlgaeCal Plus contains calcium from a marine, plant-based algae source called Lithothamnion superpositum. This algae belongs to the family of algaes known as Algas calcareas. So to make it easier to say, we just named it “AlgaeCal”! AlgaeCal has worldwide exclusive rights to this particular type of algae – and it is the only clinically backed calcium supplement in the world with human studies showing increases in bone mineral density. All other calcium has only ever been shown to slow down bone loss. In addition to this unique calcium, AlgaeCal Plus also contains magnesium, vitamin D3, vitamin K2 (in the form MK-7), vitamin C, boron and naturally-occurring trace minerals. In particular, AlgaeCal Plus contains all 13 bone-building minerals in their proper proportions that make up your bone matrix. AlgaeCal Plus is also dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free and non-GMO! For an in-depth explanation of each ingredient go to AlgaeCal Ingredients.
- Do I have to take both AlgaeCal and Strontium Boost?
If you are suffering from bone loss, it is best to take both AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost. Together they are clinically supported to increase bone density in as little as 6 months – at any age! They also increase your bone density at a faster rate than AlgaeCal Plus alone. For example, studies prove AlgaeCal Plus alone can increase bone density by an average of 1.3% per year, compared with an average bone density increase of about 4% per year with AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost together. This is significant for those suffering from bone loss who may be experiencing more than 1% bone density loss per year. Taking the two together also gives the bone-building process a “kick start” to increase bone density safely and naturally, ensuring you have covered any potential losses. Want to hear success stories from real customers? Watch their videos and see before and after DEXA scans here.
- How much elemental calcium is in AlgaeCal Plus?
AlgaeCal lists the minerals in the elemental form on the supplement facts label. Therefore, AlgaeCal Plus contains 360 mg of elemental calcium in two capsules (that’s 720 mg of elemental calcium in a daily dose, AlgaeCal lists the minerals in the elemental form on the supplement facts label. Therefore, AlgaeCal Plus contains 360 mg of elemental calcium in two capsules (that’s 720 mg of elemental calcium in a daily dose, 4 capsules).
- I have trouble swallowing pills. How big are the capsules? Is it OK to open the capsules and mix it with food/beverages?
AlgaeCal Plus, AlgaeCal Basic, and Strontium Boost all use soft capsules which are ¾” long and easy to swallow. If you do have trouble swallowing them, the two-part capsules can be pulled apart. You can then sprinkle the tasteless powder into your favorite drinks and food. We recommend semi-solid foods such as smoothies, applesauce or yogurt and avoiding hot drinks as temperatures above 120 degrees Fahrenheit as it may reduce the potency of the vitamins C, D, and K2. Please note that the AlgaeCal powder is only partially water soluble due to the many natural minerals and therefore does not dissolve completely in liquid.
- Does AlgaeCal Plus cause side effects such as deposits in kidneys or arteries?
The vast majority of people who experience gastrointestinal side effects from regular calcium supplements have not experienced any adverse side effects from AlgaeCal. These stomach troubles usually derive from consuming rock-source calcium, which our bodies are not designed to digest. Plant calcium contains a variety of balancing minerals including magnesium, which make it more easily digested. We recommend that you split your daily dose into breakfast and dinner time. Taking AlgaeCal with food increases absorption and reduces chances of any gastrointestinal issues.
- Does AlgaeCal Plus cause constipation, gas or bloating?
The vast majority of people who experience gastrointestinal side effects from regular calcium supplements have not experienced any adverse side effects from AlgaeCal. These stomach troubles usually derive from consuming rock-source calcium, which our bodies are not designed to digest. Plant calcium contains a variety of balancing minerals including magnesium, which make it more easily digested. We recommend that you split your daily dose into breakfast and dinner time. Taking AlgaeCal with food increases absorption and reduces chances of any gastrointestinal issues.
- I am petite, so do I need a full dose?
The recommended daily dose is the same for each individual no matter their size because it is based on age, not weight. In fact, if you are petite, you are at a higher risk for bone density loss because you have less skeletal mass to begin with, so a full dose is recommended.
- Is AlgaeCal Plus tested for contaminants? Does AlgaeCal contain Lead and other Heavy Metals?
Great question! Actually, lead is a natural mineral like calcium or magnesium which is found in the earth, air and water. So every vegetable that grows in the soil or water has normal amounts of lead in it – the marine algae in AlgaeCal is no exception. Luckily, our bodies easily clear normal amounts of lead daily through urine, feces, and sweat.
Every batch of AlgaeCal powder is tested by a third party laboratory for microbial activity, heavy metals, mineral content and more. The final product is made in an FDA-inspected GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) plant where the highest standards are kept.
AlgaeCal has FDA registration and Health Canada approvals. It has been on the market for 20 years and has 3 clinical studies and a toxicology study showing extraordinary safety! - Can I take AlgaeCal Plus if I am on bone medications?
Absolutely. All bone drugs require calcium supplementation to supply the needed calcium for bone building – and AlgaeCal Plus is the highest quality calcium available.
- Can I take AlgaeCal Plus with my prescription medication?
As a general rule of thumb, it is best to separate any prescription medication by at least 2-3 hours from when you take AlgaeCal Plus or Strontium Boost. This will help limit any potential interactions and ensure you receive maximum absorption from both your medications and supplements. However, some medications are recommended 3-4 hours apart. Please confirm with your doctor for your unique case. If you happen to be on an older anticoagulant prescription drug (blood thinner), vitamin K2 is not recommended. However, there are two newer types of anticoagulant drugs on the market called the XA Inhibitors and the Direct Thrombin Inhibitors. Ask your doctor about switching to one of these newer anticoagulants as the older ones are detrimental to your bone health – as they completely block the usage of vitamin K2 (the older anticoagulants use the same pathway of absorption as vitamin K2 so they cancel each other out). The newer types of anticoagulant don’t interact with vitamin K2 as they use different pathways for absorption in your body. As an extra precaution, please confirm any supplement or medication interaction with your doctor or physician before use.
- If AlgaeCal Plus is so good why doesn’t my doctor know about it?
An increasing number of doctors are aware of the significant science supporting AlgaeCal products and are referring their patients to them. It is extremely difficult for doctors to keep up with the flood of new studies being reported in the journals. If you would like to provide your doctor with the science backed information on AlgaeCal, please refer to our Research Page. In addition, we also offer a convenient, one-page printout that you can take to your doctor: Take It To Your Doctor PDF.
- Should I be concerned with the iodine level if I have a thyroid issue?
AlgaeCal does contain a minute amount of iodine – but only 160 mcg of iodine per daily serving of AlgaeCal Plus. If in doubt, please discuss with your doctor whether the amounts in AlgaeCal are appropriate for you. Additionally, we have customers taking thyroid-specific medication who see increases in their bone density with the AlgaeCal program. For best results, we recommend that you separate your thyroid medication by at least 4 hours from when you take AlgaeCal or Strontium Boost.
- Can I take AlgaeCal Plus if I have a shellfish allergy?
AlgaeCal Plus does not contain any shellfish – only calcium, minerals from organic algae and added vitamins. Many of our customers have shellfish allergies and take AlgaeCal safely with no adverse reactions. That being said, for any severe allergies we do advise consulting with your doctor/allergist for their best recommendation.
- Is AlgaeCal FDA approved?
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) only approves medications. Since AlgaeCal is a completely natural supplement, it’s simply not possible for AlgaeCal to have FDA approval. In saying that, AlgaeCal is registered with the FDA under GRAS status (Generally Recognized as Safe). GRAS status means a food ingredient is deemed safe by a qualified panel of experts.
- Is AlgaeCal Plus Vegan?
While AlgaeCal Plus and AlgaeCal are vegetarian, they aren't considered vegan because the vitamin D3 is sourced from lanolin, which is sheep's wool wax, so they are still considered an animal by product
- Is AlgaeCal Plus gluten-free / soy-free?
AlgaeCal Plus is soy-free, gluten-free, dairy-free and non-GMO.
- Is AlgaeCal Heat Sensitive?
All AlgaeCal products undergo stability testing where they are exposed to a variety of environmental factors such as light, humidity and extreme temperatures to establish its shelf life. In other words, there is no cause for concern when it comes to temperatures found in our product warehouse, during shipping to you, or in your home. Please note: stability testing is used to determine storage shelf life. We do not recommend you put AlgaeCal powder in hot drinks above 120 degrees Fahrenheit, as it may reduce the potency of vitamins D, C and K. Instead, pull apart the AlgaeCal Plus capsules and add the powder to cold or room temperature drinks or foods like smoothies and yogurt for best results.
- Why does AlgaeCal Plus use magnesium oxide?
AlgaeCal Plus contains naturally-occurring magnesium from the algae, plus additional magnesium oxide for an optimal 2:1 calcium to magnesium ratio. This ratio is the same ratio that is found in your body and has been clinically supported in human studies. Research shows magnesium oxide is as effective, if not more, than other forms of magnesium at maintaining and restoring magnesium in your bones and cells. For an in-depth explanation of why we chose this superior form, go here.
- Will AlgaeCal Plus help with osteoarthritis?
Anecdotal evidence suggests AlgaeCal Plus may help reduce pain and stiffness, while improving range of motion. Boron, one of AlgaeCal Plus’s key ingredients, has also been shown to decrease inflammation in osteoarthritis. Although many people suffering from osteoarthritis have reported relief with the AlgaeCal program, our published and peer-reviewed studies found here have been conducted to measure increases in bone density, specifically. There have not been any peer-reviewed studies conducted on AlgaeCal Plus and osteoarthritis. We recommend targeting arthritic inflammation through exercise, sleep, an anti-inflammatory diet, and our very own natural anti-inflammatory Triple Power Fish Oil! Triple Power’s formulation provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant ingredients, shown to help manage joint pain and stiffness. Learn more about osteoarthritis and 5 natural remedies you can count on here.
- Will AlgaeCal Plus help with rheumatoid arthritis?
AlgaeCal Plus may help reduce pain and stiffness, while improving range of motion. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis are commonly deficient in vitamin C, vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and selenium — all of which are found in our AlgaeCal Plus formulation. Although many people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis have reported relief with the AlgaeCal program, our published and peer-reviewed studies found here have been conducted to measure increases in bone density, specifically. There have not been any peer-reviewed studies conducted on AlgaeCal Plus and rheumatoid arthritis. 1 in 4 people with rheumatoid arthritis will also develop bone loss, and for them, Strontium Boost is recommended to complement AlgaeCal Plus for preventing excessive bone loss. Together the pair have been shown to triple the rate of bone building in a single year. Learn more by checking out the Bone Builder Pack here. We recommend targeting arthritic inflammation through exercise, sleep, an anti-inflammatory diet, and our very own natural anti-inflammatory Triple Power Fish Oil! Triple Power’s formulation provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant ingredients, shown to help manage the pain and stiffness associated with arthritic conditions. Learn more about rheumatoid arthritis and 5 natural remedies you can count on here.