Best Vitamins for Joints and Bones in Australia Guide
Reviewed by Yurie Sato, BHSc (Naturopathy), Naturopath · How we review
Looking for the best vitamins for joints and bones? We've compared 9 products, from collagen peptides and turmeric extract to glucosamine, calcium, vitamin D and magnesium. See who each ingredient was tested in, what each one costs per day and what customers say, so you can choose the right fit with confidence.
- Health advice
- 15 min read
- Nov 12, 2026
Reviewed on [insert review date] · Next review: November 2027.
The best vitamins for joints depend on what's behind your aches. Everyday wear on the knees, an active lifestyle, a diet low in calcium or vitamin D, and muscle cramps all point to different ingredients. Matching the supplement to the reason matters more than the promise on the front of the pack.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) extract has some of the better research: in a Tasmanian trial in adults with knee osteoarthritis, it eased knee pain more than a placebo (a dummy capsule) over 12 weeks [1]. Vitamin D is one of the most popular picks, yet a two-year trial in adults with knee osteoarthritis and low vitamin D found no difference in knee pain compared with placebo [2]. No vitamin or supplement treats joint disease, so if pain, swelling or stiffness keeps coming back, see your GP.
In terms of our top pick, we recommend Live More You Complete Body Collagen. One flavour-free 17.5 g scoop holds four collagen peptides (short chains of collagen protein): FORTIGEL, FORTIBONE and TENDOFORTE at 5 g each, and VERISOL at 2.5 g. It stirs into your morning coffee and works out at about $2.50 a day. It's sold as a food, so we make no health claims for it, and the blend itself hasn't been tested in people with joint conditions.
We've compared 9 products, 7 from our Supplements For Bones & Joints range and 2 from our wider range. We looked at the research behind each ingredient, who it was tested in, dose against the studies, regulatory status, cost per day and customer reviews, to help you choose with confidence.
Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your healthcare professional.
What Affects Your Joints and Bones?
Your joints rely on cartilage (the smooth cushion at the end of each bone), the tendons and ligaments that hold them together, and the muscles that move them. Bones are living tissue too, and they need a steady supply of calcium and vitamin D. Age, weight, past injuries, how active you are and what you eat all play a part.
That's why the foundations come first. For knees and hips, Australian GP guidelines recommend exercise and, if you're carrying extra weight, losing 5% to 7.5% of your body weight [3]. For bones, the mix that matters is impact exercise (jogging, skipping, stair climbing), progressive strength training and balance work [4].
Gaps are common. Over 60% of Australians fell short of their calcium needs from food in 2023, rising to about nine in ten women aged 50 to 64 [5]. One in five adults (20.6%) had a vitamin D deficiency in 2022 to 2024 [6].
For daily targets and the best food sources, read There's More to Calcium Than Strong Bones.
Can Vitamins and Supplements Help Your Joints?
Supplements can fill a nutrient gap, and some may ease mild joint aches. They can't rebuild worn cartilage or replace medical care, and results vary from person to person. Most joint trials enrolled adults with knee osteoarthritis or long-term knee pain, so results may differ for mild, everyday aches.
For the full range, browse our Supplements For Bones & Joints collection.
Joint and Bone Evidence Scorecard: What Each Ingredient Has Shown
The table shows who each ingredient was tested in and what the trials found compared with a placebo.
| Ingredient | Tested In | What the Trials Found | Our Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Collagen peptides | 180 active adults aged 18 to 30 with knee pain during exercise [7]; 131 women past menopause whose bone density had dropped with age [8] | 5 g a day of a pork-derived FORTIGEL eased knee pain during activity more than placebo over 12 weeks; pain at rest didn't differ [7]. 5 g a day of FORTIBONE raised spine and hip bone density compared with placebo over 12 months [8]. GELITA, which makes both, part-funded both trials. | Early, promising |
| Turmeric (Curcuma longa) extract | 70 Tasmanian adults with knee osteoarthritis and joint swelling [1]; a review of 69 trials in people with hand, hip or knee osteoarthritis [9] | Knee pain eased more than with placebo over 12 weeks, but swelling seen on scans didn't change. The University of Tasmania and Natural Remedies, which makes the extract, funded the trial [1]. The review found large short-term pain effects, from very low-quality evidence. The NHMRC funded it [9]. | Promising, short term |
| Glucosamine | 1,583 US adults with knee osteoarthritis and knee pain [10]; 605 Australian adults aged 45 to 75 with long-term knee pain and narrowing of the knee joint space [11] | 1,500 mg a day didn't ease pain more than placebo overall in either trial. The US National Institutes of Health funded the first; the NHMRC supported the second, run by the University of Sydney. | Mixed, small effects |
| Chondroitin | The same two trials [10] [11] | No clear pain benefit over placebo in either trial. The review rated its effect on pain as small and of unclear importance [9]. | Mixed, small effects |
| MSM | 49 adults aged 45 to 90 with knee osteoarthritis [12] | 3.375 g a day for 12 weeks improved physical function scores, but standard knee pain and stiffness scores (WOMAC) didn't change significantly. Assaf Harofeh Medical Center funded the trial. Taam Teva, which makes MSM, donated the supplement and placebo. | Small, early |
| Vitamin D | 413 adults with knee osteoarthritis and low vitamin D [2]; 81 trials in adults [13] | A monthly high dose for 2 years didn't ease knee pain or slow cartilage loss. The Menzies Institute for Medical Research in Tasmania led the trial [2]. Across 81 trials, vitamin D didn't reduce fractures or falls or change bone density in a meaningful way. The Health Research Council of New Zealand funded that review [13]. | Most useful if low |
| Calcium | 59 trials in people over 50 [14] | More calcium from food or supplements raised bone density by 0.7% to 1.8%, a small gain that didn't keep growing over time. The Health Research Council of New Zealand funded the review. | Most useful if low |
| Vitamin K2 (MK-7) | 244 healthy women past menopause [15] | 180 mcg a day for 3 years slowed bone density loss at the lower spine and the top of the thigh bone, but not the whole hip. NattoPharma, which makes MK-7, funded the trial. | Early, promising |
| Magnesium | 11 trials, including older adults with night-time leg cramps [16] | In older adults, magnesium didn't reduce how often cramps happened compared with placebo. The Canadian Institutes of Health Research supported the review. | Little effect on cramps |
"Our verdict" summarises the trials cited for each ingredient. It covers research on the ingredient and makes no claim about any product.
Check for a Shortfall First
Nutrient supplements tend to help most when your body is low in them. A quick chat with your GP, or a blood test for vitamin D, tells you whether you need one.
| Nutrient | What the Research Shows | Ask Your GP About | Our Pick |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calcium | Over 60% of Australians didn't meet their calcium needs from food in 2023, and about 90% of women aged 50 to 64 [5]. Most adults need 1,000 mg a day; women over 50 and everyone over 70 need 1,300 mg [17]. | Whether your diet covers your calcium needs | Herbs Of Gold Calcium K2 With D3 |
| Vitamin D | 20.6% of adults had a vitamin D deficiency in 2022 to 2024, rising to 29.2% of adults aged 18 to 29 [6]. | A vitamin D blood test | Herbs Of Gold Vegan Vitamin D3 1000 |
| Magnesium | 31% of Australians didn't meet their magnesium needs from food in 2023 [5]. | Whether your diet covers magnesium, and the medicines you take | Herbs Of Gold Magnesium Forte |
Study Dose vs What's in the Product
It's essential to choose the right product at the right dose. Compare the daily amount used in the research with what each product we stock gives you at its label dose.
| Ingredient | Daily Dose in the Studies | Our Product | Label Daily Dose | How It Compares |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vitamin K2 (MK-7) | 180 mcg a day for 3 years, in healthy women past menopause [15] | Herbs Of Gold Calcium K2 With D3 | 30 mcg to 45 mcg (2 to 3 tablets) | About a sixth to a quarter of the amount studied |
| Calcium | 500 mg to over 1,000 mg a day, in trials of people over 50 [14] | Herbs Of Gold Calcium K2 With D3 | 500 mg to 750 mg (2 to 3 tablets) | Within the range studied |
Study doses are the daily amounts given in the trials cited, not recommendations. Label doses are the adult directions listed on mrvitamins.com.au on 9 November 2026. Don't take more than the label dose unless your health professional advises it.
What Makes a Good Joint and Bone Supplement?
Joint and bone supplements vary more than most people realise. Six things separate a well-made supplement in our Supplements For Bones & Joints range from an average one.
- No promise to treat joint disease. Listed medicines may only refer to mild joint symptoms. Be wary of any product that promises to rebuild cartilage or reverse joint damage.
- Clear Australian regulatory status. Look for an AUST L number, which shows the product is listed with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and made to its manufacturing standards. Collagen powders are usually sold as foods, which can't carry the indications a listed medicine can.
- An ingredient matched to your situation. Calcium, vitamin D and vitamin K2 fill gaps for bones. Glucosamine and MSM products are listed for mild joint symptoms, and turmeric extract has short-term trial results. Collagen peptides suit active people who like a powder.
- Named ingredients and full doses. Look for named extracts and stated amounts per serve, with no hidden proprietary blends. Compare them with the doses used in the trials.
- Honest timeframes. Most joint trials ran for 12 weeks or longer, and bone trials for a year or more.
- Compatibility with your medicines. Glucosamine, turmeric and vitamin K2 can affect blood thinners, so check with your doctor or pharmacist first.
Every product compared was assessed against these criteria: dose, regulation, research and label content.
Comparing the Best Vitamins for Joints and Bones Available in Australia
1. Live More You Complete Body Collagen (Top Pick)
Live More You Complete Body Collagen brings four collagen peptides together in one flavour-free powder, so you don't need to stack separate tubs. Each 17.5 g scoop holds FORTIGEL 5 g, FORTIBONE 5 g, TENDOFORTE 5 g and VERISOL 2.5 g, all hydrolysed bovine collagen peptides.
Mix one scoop into water, a smoothie, coffee or food, once a day. The 455 g tub holds 26 serves, which works out at about $2.50 a day. It contains sulphites.
It's sold as a food, so we make no health claims for it. As a practitioner-only product, you'll need a free Mr Vitamins member account and a short online health form before it ships, and our team reviews it before dispatch.
"It blends in well with my morning coffee, no taste, just a nice creamy texture."
"Have you seen the size of the scoop inside? It's huge!"
"Very convenient complete product that's easy to use."
"Dissolves well in warm water."
One reviewer found the taste unpleasant in water and on porridge, while another found it dissolves quickly in coffee.
Key details: 455 g tub (26 serves) | 1 scoop (17.5 g) daily | Collagen peptides 17.5 g: FORTIGEL 5 g, FORTIBONE 5 g, TENDOFORTE 5 g, VERISOL 2.5 g | Bovine; contains sulphites | Food | Practitioner-only
2. Fusion Health Curcumin Advanced
Fusion Health Curcumin Advanced is the most-reviewed joint product we compared, with 37 counted reviews. Each tablet combines Curcumin C3 Complex turmeric (333.3 mg curcuminoids) with AprèsFlex boswellia, ginger and BioPerine black pepper extract.
Take 2 or 3 tablets a day, depending on your goal, and follow the directions on the label. The directions recommend at least 3 months of use. It costs from $32.99, or about $1.00 to $1.50 a day on the 90-tablet pack.
Don't use it during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if you take blood thinners or are at risk of bleeding. In rare cases, Curcuma species may harm the liver: stop use and seek medical advice if you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes, unusual tiredness, nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, dark urine or itching.
"We have been using this for a couple of years now and when we have stopped for a while ... we notice the difference pretty soon!"
"Love this product. Tried many brands and varying costs but this one has great effect and good value for money."
"Very easy to use & take"
"Great price"
A few reviewers found the tablets large to swallow, and two noticed lower amounts of some ingredients after a formula change.
Key details: 60 or 90 tablets | 2 to 3 tablets daily | Curcuminoids 333.3 mg per tablet, with boswellia, ginger and black pepper extract | Not for use in pregnancy or breastfeeding | Listed medicine
3. Herbs Of Gold Glucosamine Max
Herbs Of Gold Glucosamine Max puts 1.5 g of glucosamine hydrochloride into a single daily tablet, with chondroitin, MSM, ginger, zinc and manganese. One tablet a day keeps things simple, and the 180-tablet pack works out at about 33 cents a day.
It's listed to relieve symptoms of mild osteoarthritis, including mild joint aches and pains, mild stiffness and mild inflammation or swelling, and to support joint mobility and joint cartilage health.
Adults and children over 12: take 1 tablet daily with food. It contains crustacean products (the glucosamine is derived from seafood), so skip it if you have a shellfish allergy. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.
"Couldn't [imagine] to stop taking. I'm sure it makes a difference."
"I like having to take only one per day. The product I was taking previously required taking four per day which made it much more expensive."
"Fab product great price"
Key details: 90 or 180 tablets | 1 tablet daily | Glucosamine hydrochloride 1.5 g, chondroitin 120 mg, MSM 100 mg | Contains crustacean products | AUST L 374064
4. Herbs Of Gold Vegan Vitamin D3 1000
Herbs Of Gold Vegan Vitamin D3 1000 gives you 1,000 IU (25 mcg) of vitamin D3, sourced from lichen, in one small capsule a day. The 240-capsule pack works out at about 12 cents a day, the lowest cost of the products compared.
It's listed to support bone health, bone strength and muscle strength, and to help calcium absorption. Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet.
Adults and children over 12: take 1 capsule daily with food.
"Perfect for me in every way and for my bones too."
"I have changed over to these as they are small in size then [than] my previous brand of D3. and they are vegan"
"Great to be able to buy Vitamin D3 capsules suitable for vegans at a reasonable cost."
"I find this product very good, purchasing it many times now."
Key details: 120 or 240 capsules | 1 capsule daily | Vitamin D3 1,000 IU (25 mcg) | Sourced from lichen | AUST L 316141
5. Herbs Of Gold Calcium K2 With D3
Herbs Of Gold Calcium K2 With D3 pairs two calcium sources, Aquamin (from mineralised seaweed) and calcium citrate, with vitamin K2 and vitamin D3. Each tablet gives 250 mg of calcium, 15 mcg of vitamin K2 (MK-7) and 333 IU of vitamin D3.
It's listed to support bone health, bone strength and bone density, including in women after menopause, and to support calcium absorption in bones. Vitamin and mineral supplements should not replace a balanced diet.
Adults and children over 12: take 1 tablet two to three times daily with food. That's 500 mg to 750 mg of calcium a day, or about 59 to 88 cents on the 180-tablet pack. Talk to your doctor first if you take a blood-thinning medicine.
"A calcium that shows signs of working well so far."
"Herbs of gold are one of the few supplements I can have due to having no added nasties, including soy."
"It's good, part of my health additives"
Key details: 90 or 180 tablets | 2 to 3 tablets daily | Per tablet: calcium 250 mg, vitamin K2 15 mcg, vitamin D3 333 IU | AUST L 383877
6. Herbs Of Gold Magnesium Forte
Herbs Of Gold Magnesium Forte combines four forms of magnesium for 220 mg of elemental magnesium per tablet. It's a good fit when muscle cramps are part of the picture and your diet is light on magnesium.
It's listed to relieve muscle cramps and reduce how often they happen when dietary intake is inadequate, and to support muscle function and bone health. Vitamin and mineral supplements should not replace a balanced diet.
Adults and children over 12: take 1 tablet once or twice daily with food. Two tablets give 440 mg, above the 350 mg a day upper limit for magnesium from supplements [18], so check with your health professional before taking two. The 120-tablet pack costs about 27 cents a day at one tablet, or 54 cents at two.
"This is the best quality magnesium that I've ever taken."
"Herbs of Gold are always of high quality. The Magnesium Forte is excellent."
"Great product"
One reviewer found the tablets long, though easy to swallow thanks to the smooth coating.
Key details: 60 or 120 tablets | 1 to 2 tablets daily | Magnesium 220 mg per tablet | AUST L 465031
7. Gelatin Health Joint Collagen Powder
Gelatin Health Joint Collagen Powder is a single-ingredient hydrolysed bovine collagen powder. It's unflavoured and dissolves in hot or cold drinks, so it disappears into your tea, coffee or smoothie.
Add about 6 g (around one tablespoon) daily to water or the liquid of your choice. At that serve, the 1 kg pack lasts more than 160 days, about 55 cents a day.
It's sold as a food, so we make no health claims for it. It's a budget way to add collagen protein to your day.
"Highly recommend this product"
"I only go back for this brand."
"Very happy"
Key details: 1 kg pack | About 6 g daily | Hydrolysed bovine collagen peptides 100% | Food
8. Fusion Health Glucosamine Advanced Repair
Fusion Health Glucosamine Advanced Repair combines glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin and MSM with vitamin C, silica, manganese and two herbs, eucommia and acanthopanax. Its glucosamine (GlucosaGreen) is made from corn, so it's an option if you avoid shellfish. Check the pack if you have an allergy.
It's listed to relieve symptoms of mild osteoarthritis, including mild joint pain or soreness, and to support joint mobility, joint cartilage health, collagen formation and connective tissue health.
Adults: take 2 capsules twice daily with food. Four capsules give 1,500 mg of glucosamine sulfate and 420 mg of chondroitin. The 100-capsule pack lasts 25 days, about $2.08 a day. It contains sodium (see the pack for the amount) and bovine chondroitin. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.
"Great product works well, just need at [to] compare after one month of treatment"
"Excellent product"
Key details: 100 capsules | 4 capsules daily | Per capsule: glucosamine sulfate 375 mg, chondroitin 105 mg, MSM 125 mg | Contains bovine chondroitin and sodium | AUST L 319835
9. Henry Blooms MSM Powder
Henry Blooms MSM Powder is pure MSM (methylsulfonylmethane, a source of sulphur) in an unflavoured powder you stir into food or drinks. At 3 g once or twice a day, the 300 g tub costs about 17 to 35 cents a day.
It's listed to relieve symptoms of mild osteoarthritis, including mild joint aches, mild stiffness and mild inflammation or swelling, to support joint mobility and joint cartilage health, and to relieve muscle aches after exercise.
Adults: add 3 g (about ¾ metric teaspoon) once or twice daily to food or drinks. It contains sulfites. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.
"We love this product, It works really well. A good quality MSM."
"Good"
Key details: 300 g tub | 3 g once or twice daily | MSM 3 g per serve | Contains sulfites | AUST L 324007
Best Vitamins for Joints and Bones in Australia (2026 Comparison)
| Product | Format | Key Ingredients | Daily Serve | TGA Status | Approx. Cost per Day | Customer Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Live More You Complete Body Collagen | Powder | Collagen peptides 17.5 g (FORTIGEL, FORTIBONE, TENDOFORTE, VERISOL) | 1 scoop | Food | ~$2.50 | 4.3 (9 reviews) | One daily scoop of collagen protein in your coffee |
| Fusion Health Curcumin Advanced | Tablet | Curcuminoids 333.3 mg, boswellia, ginger, black pepper | 2 to 3 tablets | Listed medicine | ~$1.00 to $1.50 | 4.7 (37 reviews) | Turmeric and boswellia in one tablet |
| Herbs Of Gold Glucosamine Max | Tablet | Glucosamine hydrochloride 1.5 g, chondroitin, MSM | 1 tablet | AUST L 374064 | ~$0.33 | 4.6 (7 reviews) | A once-a-day glucosamine tablet |
| Herbs Of Gold Vegan Vitamin D3 1000 | Capsule | Vitamin D3 1,000 IU | 1 capsule | AUST L 316141 | ~$0.12 | 4.9 (15 reviews) | Topping up vitamin D when you get little sun |
| Herbs Of Gold Calcium K2 With D3 | Tablet | Calcium 250 mg, vitamin K2 15 mcg, vitamin D3 333 IU per tablet | 2 to 3 tablets | AUST L 383877 | ~$0.59 to $0.88 | 5.0 (8 reviews) | Topping up calcium when your diet falls short |
| Herbs Of Gold Magnesium Forte | Tablet | Magnesium 220 mg | 1 to 2 tablets | AUST L 465031 | ~$0.27 to $0.54 | 4.9 (20 reviews) | Topping up magnesium when your diet is low |
| Gelatin Health Joint Collagen Powder | Powder | Hydrolysed bovine collagen, about 6 g | 1 tablespoon | Food | ~$0.55 | 5.0 (4 reviews) | A budget collagen powder |
| Fusion Health Glucosamine Advanced Repair | Capsule | Glucosamine sulfate 1,500 mg, chondroitin 420 mg, MSM 500 mg a day | 4 capsules | AUST L 319835 | ~$2.08 | 5.0 (2 reviews) | Glucosamine made from corn |
| Henry Blooms MSM Powder | Powder | MSM 3 g per serve | 3 g once or twice | AUST L 324007 | ~$0.17 to $0.35 | 4.0 (2 reviews) | A low-cost powder you can stir into any drink |
Prices are Mr Vitamins prices on 9 November 2026 and may change. Cost per day is calculated at the label dose from the largest pack sold. Ratings count only reviews of each product on mrvitamins.com.au on the same date.
If you take warfarin or another blood thinner, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting glucosamine, turmeric or vitamin K2. US Food and Drug Administration reviewers found reports linking glucosamine with changes in INR (a blood-clotting test) in people taking warfarin [19]. In healthy volunteers on a warfarin-type medicine, Maastricht University researchers found vitamin K2 doses of 10 mcg to 45 mcg a day lowered INR in many of them [20]. Keep magnesium from supplements under 350 mg a day unless your health professional advises more [18]. If you take vitamin D3 and a calcium tablet with D3, add the two doses together: the adult upper limit is 80 mcg (3,200 IU) a day from all sources, food and supplements included [21].
Build a Simple Daily Routine
Start small: pick the products that match your goal and take them at the same time each day. Give a joint routine 12 weeks or more before you judge it.
- Morning: stir one scoop of Live More You Complete Body Collagen into your coffee, and take a Herbs Of Gold Vegan Vitamin D3 1000 capsule with breakfast. Together they cost about $2.62 a day.
- With dinner: add one Herbs Of Gold Glucosamine Max tablet if mild joint aches and stiffness are your focus. That brings the total to about $2.95 a day, or around $89 a month.
Not sure which combination suits you? Book 10 minutes with a qualified naturopath online, free, for help choosing.
Joint and Bone Supplements by Situation
Match the pairing to your personal circumstances, then explore our in-depth guides.
Aching or Stiff Joints in the Morning
Mild morning stiffness is common as joints age, and movement helps first. Among supplements, turmeric extract has the clearest short-term pain results [1] [9], while glucosamine and chondroitin have shown small or no effects in large trials [10]. Explore our Curcumin Supplements and Glucosamine Supplements ranges.
Knees and an Active Lifestyle
If you run, train or play sport, collagen peptides are worth a look. A pork-derived FORTIGEL eased knee pain during activity in young active adults, and GELITA part-funded the trial [7]. Browse Collagen Joint Supplements, and read Vegan, Marine & Bovine Collagen: What's the difference? to choose a source.
Tendons and Ligaments
In a pilot crossover study of 20 adults with long-term Achilles tendon problems (tendinopathy), symptom scores rose 12.6 points over 3 months with 5 g a day of TENDOFORTE (2.5 g twice daily) plus calf-strengthening exercises. With exercise and a placebo, they rose 5.3 points. The study wasn't designed to test the difference between the groups. GELITA funded it [22].
Joints and Muscles
If cramps or tight muscles come with your joint aches, check your magnesium intake first: 31% of Australians fall short from food [5]. Trials in older adults with night-time leg cramps found magnesium didn't reduce cramps more than placebo [16], so it's most useful when your intake is low. Read Magnesium Benefits, Dosage and Best Forms: The Complete Guide.
Bones and Joints for Women
Women need 1,300 mg of calcium a day from age 51 [17], and about nine in ten women aged 50 to 64 fall short from food [5]. In healthy women past menopause, vitamin K2 (MK-7) at 180 mcg a day slowed bone density loss over 3 years [15]. If joint aches start around menopause, talk to your GP, as they can have several causes. Explore our Calcium Supplements and Vitamin K Supplements ranges.
Bones and Joints for Men
Men need 1,000 mg of calcium a day up to 70, then 1,300 mg [17], and over half fall short from food [5]. Vitamin D deficiency was a little more common in men than women in 2022 to 2024 (22.5% compared with 18.6%) [6]. Read Vitamin D: When Sunlight is not enough, or browse Vitamin D Supplements.
If You Avoid Shellfish
Many glucosamine products are made from shellfish. Herbs Of Gold Glucosamine Max contains crustacean products, while Fusion Health Glucosamine Advanced Repair uses glucosamine made from corn. Turmeric extract, MSM and collagen are other options. Check every pack if you have an allergy.
Looking After Your Heart and Hair Too
Joint and bone care often sits alongside other goals. Read Best Vitamins for Heart Health and Circulation in Australia (2026 Guide) and Best Vitamins for Hair Growth and Thinning Hair in Australia (2026 Guide).
When Joint Pain Needs Your GP
Supplements are for mild, everyday joint symptoms. See your GP if joint or muscle pain keeps going, especially with swelling, redness or warmth in a joint, stiffness that limits how you move, or if you feel generally unwell. An early diagnosis means the right care can start sooner [23].
Talk to your doctor before starting a supplement if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, take prescription medicines, or have kidney problems or a shellfish allergy.
Collagen vs Glucosamine: What's the Difference?
- Targets: Collagen protein; trials looked at knees, tendons and bone density
- Examples: Specific collagen peptides or plain hydrolysed collagen
- Timeframe: 12 weeks to 12 months in trials
- Best for: Active adults and anyone who likes a powder in their coffee
- Consider: Mostly sold as foods, without the indications a listed medicine carries; most trials were company-funded
- Targets: Mild joint symptoms, as listed medicines
- Examples: Glucosamine sulfate or hydrochloride, often with chondroitin and MSM
- Timeframe: 24 weeks to 2 years in trials
- Best for: People who prefer a tablet
- Consider: Often made from shellfish; mixed results in large independent trials
Which Joint and Bone Supplement Should You Choose?
Choosing a Joint and Bone Supplement
The best vitamins for joints and bones depend on your reason for taking them. Our top pick is Live More You Complete Body Collagen, which puts four collagen peptides in one daily scoop for about $2.50 a day. It suits you if you want one simple habit that adds collagen protein to your day. It's sold as a food and hasn't been tested as a blend in people with joint conditions.
For mild joint aches, look at Herbs Of Gold Glucosamine Max or Henry Blooms MSM Powder. If you'd like turmeric and boswellia in one tablet, Fusion Health Curcumin Advanced is an option. If your diet is low in calcium or you get little sun, Herbs Of Gold Calcium K2 With D3 and Herbs Of Gold Vegan Vitamin D3 1000 fill the gaps. Whatever you choose, match it to your situation, follow the directions on your chosen product's label and give it at least 12 weeks.
How to Choose the Right Joint and Bone Supplement for You
-
Start with your reason
- Bones: calcium, vitamin D and vitamin K2
- Mild joint aches and stiffness: turmeric extract, glucosamine or MSM
- Active knees and tendons: collagen peptides
- Muscle cramps: magnesium, when your intake is low
-
Check for a shortfall
- Ask your GP about a vitamin D blood test and whether your diet covers calcium
-
Check for allergens
- Many glucosamine products are made from shellfish, and most collagen and chondroitin come from cattle
-
Check your medicines
- Glucosamine, turmeric and vitamin K2 can affect blood thinners, so ask your doctor or pharmacist first
-
Check the label category
- Look for the AUST L number on listed medicines and verify it on the TGA's ARTG register
-
Be wary of big promises
- Skip products that claim to rebuild cartilage, reverse joint damage or work overnight
-
Give it time
- Allow at least 12 weeks for joints and longer for bones, then review with a practitioner
Why Buy Your Joint and Bone Supplements From Mr Vitamins
- Expert advice, free: qualified practitioners in every store, with no appointment needed, plus 10 minutes with a qualified naturopath online, free and with no obligation to buy
- Trusted since 1992: 8 stores across NSW and QLD
- Rated 4.7 stars: from more than 8,000 verified customer reviews
- Range: more than 840 trusted brands
- Fast and free options: free Click & Collect in 1 hour, and free standard shipping on orders over $120 in NSW and the ACT, or over $150 in QLD, VIC, SA, TAS and WA (see our Shipping policy)
- Quick dispatch: our team endeavours to dispatch in-stock orders the same day
Not Sure Where to Start?
Joint and bone needs change with age, activity and medicines, and a practitioner can help you match the right ingredient to your situation. Find our practitioners in store, or book 10 minutes with a qualified naturopath from the Mr Vitamins online team, free. See your GP if joint pain, swelling or stiffness persists, or if you're unsure about a supplement with your medicines.
Joint and Bone Supplement FAQs
What Are the Best Vitamins for Joints?
The best vitamins for joints depend on your reason for taking them, as there isn't one best vitamin for every joint. Calcium and vitamin D matter most for bones, especially when your intake is low [5] [6]. For mild joint aches, turmeric extract has some of the better short-term trial results [1] [9]. Match the ingredient to your situation and give it at least 12 weeks.
What Vitamins Are Best for Joint Pain?
No vitamin treats joint pain, and vitamin D didn't ease knee pain in a two-year Australian trial in adults with knee osteoarthritis [2]. For mild joint aches, the better-studied supplements are turmeric extract, glucosamine and MSM, though large glucosamine trials found no clear benefit over placebo [10] [11]. See your GP if pain persists.
What Is the Best Vitamin for Bones and Joints?
For bones, calcium, vitamin D and vitamin K2 cover the basics, especially if your diet falls short [5] [15]. For joints, ingredients such as turmeric extract and collagen peptides have more trial support than vitamins [9]. Many people pair a bone product with a joint product.
Which Vitamin Is Best for Knee Joints?
No vitamin has clear results for knees. Vitamin D didn't improve knee pain in adults with knee osteoarthritis who were low in it [2]. Non-vitamin options have done better: turmeric extract eased knee pain over 12 weeks in adults with knee osteoarthritis [1], and collagen peptides eased knee pain during activity in young active adults [7].
What Is the Best Vitamin for Stiff Joints?
Vitamins on their own haven't shown much for stiffness, so regular movement and strength work come first [3]. Some listed medicines, such as glucosamine and MSM products, are listed to relieve mild joint stiffness. Follow the label and allow a few months.
What Is the Best Vitamin for Mild Arthritis and Joint Pain?
No vitamin or supplement treats arthritis, mild or otherwise. Arthritis covers many conditions and the right care depends on the type, so see your doctor for a diagnosis if you have ongoing joint pain, swelling or stiffness [23]. For knee and hip joint wear, exercise and weight management come first [3].
Does Vitamin D Help Joint Pain?
Not on its own, based on current trials. In 413 adults with knee osteoarthritis and low vitamin D, a monthly high dose for 2 years didn't ease knee pain compared with placebo [2]. Vitamin D still matters for bones and muscles if your levels are low [6], so ask your GP about a blood test.
What Vitamins Help Joints and Muscles?
Vitamin D and magnesium are the two most linked with muscles. Vitamin D is important for bone health and muscle function [6]. Magnesium is most useful if your intake is low, as trials in older adults with night-time leg cramps found little effect [16]. For mild joint aches, turmeric extract or MSM can sit alongside them.
Is Collagen or Glucosamine Better for Joints?
Neither is better for everyone. Collagen peptides have newer, mostly company-funded trials in active adults [7]. Glucosamine has larger independent trials, with no clear benefit over placebo [10] [11]. If you avoid shellfish, check for corn-based glucosamine.
How Long Do Joint Supplements Take to Work?
Plan on at least 12 weeks. Most joint trials ran for 12 weeks to 2 years [1] [7] [11], and bone trials for a year or longer [8] [15]. If nothing has changed after 3 months, talk to a practitioner about other options.
What Are the Best Vitamins for Menopause Joint Pain?
No vitamin treats joint pain around menopause, and it can have several causes, so talk to your GP. For bones, women need 1,300 mg of calcium a day from age 51 [17], and about nine in ten women aged 50 to 64 fall short from food [5].
Can I Take Joint Supplements With Blood Thinners?
Check with your doctor or pharmacist first. Glucosamine has been linked with changes in INR in people taking warfarin [19], and low doses of vitamin K2 lowered INR in volunteers on a warfarin-type medicine [20]. Fusion Health Curcumin Advanced isn't for use with blood thinners.
References
- Wang Z, Jones G, Winzenberg T, Cai G, Laslett LL, Aitken D, et al. Effectiveness of Curcuma longa extract for the treatment of symptoms and effusion-synovitis of knee osteoarthritis: a randomized trial. Ann Intern Med. 2020;173(11):861-869. doi:10.7326/M20-0990
- Jin X, Jones G, Cicuttini F, Wluka A, Zhu Z, Han W, et al. Effect of vitamin D supplementation on tibial cartilage volume and knee pain among patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA. 2016;315(10):1005-1013. doi:10.1001/jama.2016.1961
- The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. Guideline for the management of knee and hip osteoarthritis. 2nd ed. East Melbourne: RACGP; 2018. racgp.org.au/clinical-resources/clinical-guidelines/key-racgp-guidelines
- Healthy Bones Australia. Exercise and bone health. Updated 4 December 2025. healthybonesaustralia.org.au/your-bone-health/exercise-bone-health
- Australian Bureau of Statistics. Australians continue to need more calcium [media release]. 17 March 2026. abs.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/australians-continue-need-more-calcium
- Australian Bureau of Statistics. National Health Measures Survey, 2022-24. Released 31 March 2025. abs.gov.au/statistics/health/health-conditions-and-risks/national-health-measures-survey/2022-24
- Zdzieblik D, Brame J, Oesser S, Gollhofer A, König D. The influence of specific bioactive collagen peptides on knee joint discomfort in young physically active adults: a randomized controlled trial. Nutrients. 2021;13(2):523. doi:10.3390/nu13020523
- König D, Oesser S, Scharla S, Zdzieblik D, Gollhofer A. Specific collagen peptides improve bone mineral density and bone markers in postmenopausal women: a randomized controlled study. Nutrients. 2018;10(1):97. doi:10.3390/nu10010097
- Liu X, Machado GC, Eyles JP, Ravi V, Hunter DJ. Dietary supplements for treating osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Sports Med. 2018;52(3):167-175. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2016-097333
- Clegg DO, Reda DJ, Harris CL, Klein MA, O'Dell JR, Hooper MM, et al. Glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and the two in combination for painful knee osteoarthritis. N Engl J Med. 2006;354(8):795-808. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa052771
- Fransen M, Agaliotis M, Nairn L, Votrubec M, Bridgett L, Su S, et al. Glucosamine and chondroitin for knee osteoarthritis: a double-blind randomised placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluating single and combination regimens. Ann Rheum Dis. 2015;74(5):851-858. doi:10.1136/annrheumdis-2013-203954
- Debbi EM, Agar G, Fichman G, Ziv YB, Kardosh R, Halperin N, et al. Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane supplementation on osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized controlled study. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2011;11:50. doi:10.1186/1472-6882-11-50
- Bolland MJ, Grey A, Avenell A. Effects of vitamin D supplementation on musculoskeletal health: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and trial sequential analysis. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol. 2018;6(11):847-858. doi:10.1016/S2213-8587(18)30265-1
- Tai V, Leung W, Grey A, Reid IR, Bolland MJ. Calcium intake and bone mineral density: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ. 2015;351:h4183. doi:10.1136/bmj.h4183
- Knapen MHJ, Drummen NE, Smit E, Vermeer C, Theuwissen E. Three-year low-dose menaquinone-7 supplementation helps decrease bone loss in healthy postmenopausal women. Osteoporos Int. 2013;24(9):2499-2507. doi:10.1007/s00198-013-2325-6
- Garrison SR, Korownyk CS, Kolber MR, Allan GM, Musini VM, Sekhon RK, et al. Magnesium for skeletal muscle cramps. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020;9(9):CD009402. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD009402.pub3
- Better Health Channel. Calcium. Melbourne: Victorian Department of Health. betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/calcium
- National Health and Medical Research Council. Nutrient Reference Values for Australia and New Zealand: Magnesium. eatforhealth.gov.au/nutrient-reference-values/nutrients/magnesium
- Knudsen JF, Sokol GH. Potential glucosamine-warfarin interaction resulting in increased international normalized ratio: case report and review of the literature and MedWatch database. Pharmacotherapy. 2008;28(4):540-548. doi:10.1592/phco.28.4.540
- Theuwissen E, Teunissen KJ, Spronk HM, Hamulyák K, Ten Cate H, Shearer MJ, et al. Effect of low-dose supplements of menaquinone-7 (vitamin K2) on the stability of oral anticoagulant treatment: dose-response relationship in healthy volunteers. J Thromb Haemost. 2013;11(6):1085-1092. doi:10.1111/jth.12203
- National Health and Medical Research Council. Nutrient Reference Values for Australia and New Zealand: Vitamin D. eatforhealth.gov.au/nutrient-reference-values/nutrients/vitamin-d
- Praet SFE, Purdam CR, Welvaert M, Vlahovich N, Lovell G, Burke LM, et al. Oral supplementation of specific collagen peptides combined with calf-strengthening exercises enhances function and reduces pain in Achilles tendinopathy patients. Nutrients. 2019;11(1):76. doi:10.3390/nu11010076
- Better Health Channel. Arthritis explained. Melbourne: Victorian Department of Health; reviewed 11 November 2024. betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/arthritis
General Disclaimer
This article is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice and is not a substitute for professional healthcare advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your healthcare professional.
The information in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or health condition. References to research reflect the current state of published evidence on individual ingredients and are not claims made about any specific product. Individual results may vary.
Products shown with an AUST L number are listed on the TGA Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). The TGA doesn't evaluate listed medicines for efficacy before listing; they may only use indications from its list of permitted indications. Live More You Complete Body Collagen and Gelatin Health Joint Collagen Powder are sold as foods, and we make no health claims for them. Always verify current regulatory status for any product on the ARTG.
Practitioner-only products need a free Mr Vitamins member account and a short online health form before purchase.
Products were selected on the Mr Vitamins team's assessment of research, dose, regulatory status and value. Customer reviews are shown as submitted on mrvitamins.com.au and reflect individual experiences. Prices are Mr Vitamins prices at the time of writing and are subject to change.
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking prescription medications or have an existing health condition, consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any supplement. Keep all supplements out of reach of children. Vitamin and mineral supplements should not replace a balanced diet.
© Mr Vitamins. All rights reserved. Content is reviewed periodically but may not reflect the most current product formulations, regulatory status or research. Published: November 2026. Next review due: November 2027.
Recent Articles
Related Articles
Best Vitamins for Heart Health and Circulation in Australia Guide
Looking for the best vitamins for heart health and circulation? We've compared 9 CoQ10, fish oil, magnesium, aged garlic, B vitamin and vitamin K2 products we stock on research, dose, cost per day and customer reviews, plus which medicines to check first. Our top pick: Herbs Of Gold Ubiquinol 150mg.
Best Vitamins for Hair Growth and Thinning Hair in Australia (2026 Guide)
Looking for the best vitamins for hair growth? We've compared 9 options from our range, from iron, vitamin D and zinc to hair, skin and nails formulas and marine collagen. See who each ingredient was tested in, label doses, cost per day and real customer reviews, so you can choose with confidence.
Best Vitamins for Joints and Bones in Australia Guide
Looking for the best vitamins for joints and bones? We've compared 9 products, from collagen peptides and turmeric extract to glucosamine, calcium, vitamin D and magnesium. See who each ingredient was tested in, what each one costs per day and what customers say, so you can choose the right fit with confidence.
Recently Viewed
- ${ variant.price | currencyFromCents } | ${ variant.title } ${ variant.price | currency } | ${ variant.title }
