Need some good info and resources

[Guest guest]

Hello everyone!

I have been reading with interest the growing number of people who are using herbs and supplements to help them with various ailments. Many of these people have great results, all without the need for rx meds.

I desperately want to try some of these herbs/supplements. My chief complaints are joint/muscle pain, migraines, and no energy. I have been told to avoid places like GNC and other commercial stores, as the products you receive are not pure, and can even be contaminated. In addition, I was doing some looking around today, and saw that most of the ingredients on these products contain silica or silica gel. The last thing I want to do is start putting any form of silicone in my body!! However, I wonder if this is necessary for freshness?

Another woman also stated that she used MSM and mallic acid for pain. I saw several preparations of MSM, and it stated on the labeling that MSM was necessary for joint health. I wasn't able to find mallic acid, and the pharmacist didn't know what it was. What is mallic acid for? Also, what is the difference between glucosamine/costochondroitin, shark cartilage, and Vitamin D/calcium? I know all are needed for bone/joint health, but is one recommended over the other? I have degenerative disk disease, and generalized "softening" of my bones. Would one be better over the others?

And what about Vit C? Is this a good supplement to take?

I like to think that I get most of this stuff in my diet, but I know I don't. In reality, my diet is probably poorer than I like to think. My labs consistently show that I am low on Fe (iron), and I've read that Vit C helps Fe to be absorbed.

Any recommendations I would greatly appreciate. I want to start off slow, and not bombard my body with 3 million herbs/supplements. So, I will listen to what anyone has to say and recommend. Any websites where you can order these items I would also appreciate. I would like to know what would be best to start off with, and how much.

Thanks so much!!

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