Words to Know

Getting supplement savvy also means learning the lingo. Here is a short list of common terms you’ll encounter when using Arthritis Today’s Supplement Guide.

Clinical trials – Human studies

Cytokines – Chemicals produced by the body that trigger the inflammatory process; for example, C-reactive protein, interleukins, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)

DHA – Docosahexaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid, found in fish oil

EPA – Eicosapentaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid, found in fish oil

mcg – Microgram, a unit of measurement; 1/1000 of a milligram

mg – Milligram, a unit of measurement; 1/1000 of a gram

NSAIDs – Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs