Fortunately there are a number of nutrients available that provide the vital components of healthy joint structure and function. These nutrients are referred to as “chondroprotective agents,” and include glucosamine and chondroitin. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are substances found naturally in the body.
Glucosamine is a form of amino sugar that is believed to play a role in cartilage formation and repair. Chondroitin sulfate is part of a large protein molecule (proteoglycan) that gives cartilage elasticity. Other chondroprotective nutrients and herbs, like Cetyl Myristoleate, MSM, and Boswellin, work synergistically with glucosamine and chondroitin and further support normal joint function.
In the joint, cartilage undergoes a constant process of breakdown and repair. However, to be properly repaired, the building blocks of cartilage must be present and available. The theory behind using the glucosamine and chondroitin joint supplements is that more of the cartilage building blocks will be available. The idea is that these two nutrients may increase the rate of formation of new cartilage by providing more of the necessary building blocks.
Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements are safe, natural and effective nutrients that support healthy joint function.
Arnica is a perennial herb, indigenous to Central Europe, in woods and mountain pastures. Some of its common names include leopard's bane, wolf's bane, and mountain tobacco. Arnica's healing properties have been used in Europe for centuries to treat swelling, soreness and bruising.
Arnica is known to stimulate blood circulation and can raise blood pressure, especially in the coronary arteries. Because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects, the plant extract has been used externally for arthritis, burns, ulcers, eczema, psoriasis, insect bites and acne. It has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities that can reduce pain and swelling, improving wound healing. Arnica is best known as a homeopathic remedy for muscle strain and soreness. For muscle strains and sprains, Arnica is widely applied to ease the inflammation and pain caused by overuse or injury.
Celadrin is a medically and clinically proven pain management compound developed through a chemical process of breaking down oils. Celadrin is a novel, all natural ingredient which has been medically shown to reduce inflammation and pain with no side effects.
Celadrin acts as a lubricant to the body’s cell membranes, making the cells more fluid and elastic, thus allowing easier and often pain-free movement. In a double blind clinical trial, oral Celadrin showed significant benefit beyond the arthritic medication the subjects were taking. Those who were given Celadrin had more flexibility, fewer aches, less pain and were able to walk further distances.
Chondroitin sulfate consists of repeating chains of molecules called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Chondroitin sulfate is a major constituent of cartilage, providing structure, holding water and nutrients, and allowing other molecules to move through cartilage - an important property, as there is no blood supply to cartilage. The only significant food source of chondroitin sulfate is animal cartilage.
Glucosamine is composed of glucose (a sugar) and glutamine (an amino acid). It is utilized by chondrocytes to form glycosaminoglycans (GSG) and proteoglycans (PG). Both of these constituents attract and bind water into cartilage, increasing resiliency. Research indicates that glucosamine may actually help your body repair damaged or eroded cartilage.
For a long time, glucosamine dominated the market among supplements used to ease joint pain. Now, many practitioners prefer to use a combination of both glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. Many have found this combination to be effective, particularly for runners, who tend to develop problems with their knees. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are well absorbed by the molecules that make up cartilage. They are not available from food. It is not uncommon to have to take these supplements indefinitely to continue to experience relief.
MSM
Methyl-sulfonyl-methane is found in small amounts in everyone's blood and most foods. It's unclear what role MSM plays in the complex chemistry of the human body, but like other sulfur compounds, MSM is a necessary building block for proteins, especially those found in the hair, muscles, and connective tissue of the joints and skin.
This natural compound is also found in many common beverages and foods, including milk, coffee, tea and green vegetables. In its purified chemical form, it is an odorless, essentially tasteless, white, water-soluble crystalline solid. It is one of the safest substances in biology, similar in toxicity to water.
People may want to try these alternative supplements before enduring more invasive, expensive approaches.
Benefits of Joint Support Formulas
• helps rebuild and repair worn cartilage
• support healthy joint function by supplying the materials needed to produce collagen and proteoglycans
• eases joint pain
