In joints such as knees and elbows that allow movement, the ends of each bone are covered in a dense layer of thick, springy tissue called cartilage. This cartilage helps to protect and cushion your bones, keeping them from grinding against each other, and letting you move smoothly and comfortably.

However, like nearly every other tissue in our bodies, our cartilage tissue is constantly breaking down over time. This can then lead to joint stiffness and discomfort that’s especially noticeable during cold weather.

Treatment

Luckily, there are a range of ingredients that contain compounds which support your body's cartilage building blocks. And by doing so, these options may assist your body in carrying out its natural cartilage processes.

Glucosamine is one of the most extensively researched of these ingredients. Many studies have shown that it can help to maintain healthy joint cartilage and support easy, comfortable joint mobility. Many people find that they need to take glucosamine for 6 to 8 weeks, and sometimes up to 12, before they notice any substantial effects.