Joint degeneration is a common problem found predominately but not exclusively in the elderly population. Weight bearing joints like the hips, knees, ankles and the joints of the hands can be most affected. The formulation containing Glucosamine Sulfate, MSM, Sea Cucumber, Hydrolyzed Cartilage and Bromelain is a complex formula designed to help with degenerative joint ailments. Clinical research has demonstrated the effectiveness of these compounds individually, and together, in assisting the body to rebuild damaged connective tissue.

Glucosamine Sulfate (GS) is a compound containing both glucosamine and sulfur is found in and around the tendons, ligaments and connective tissue. Glucosamine, synthesized from the amino acid glutamine and glucose, is one of the building blocks of connective tissue. Glucosamine acts as the foundation for cartilage compounds known as glycosaminoglycans (mucopolysaccharides) and proteoglycans. Glycosaminoglycans (GAGS) are made up of chains of complex carbohydrates characterized by their content of amino sugars and uronic acids (1).* When these chains attach to proteins the compound becomes a proteoglycan. Proteoglycans are associated with the structural elements of the tissues such as bone, elastin and collagen and their unique ability to hold large quantities of water acts as a cushioning and lubrication to other structures (1).*

Glucosamine also activates chondrocyte cells in the cartilage which help produce GAGS and proteoglycans. Recent studies have indicated that glucosamine can substantially enhance mucopolysaccharide production when added to cultured fibroblasts or chondrocytes; the clinical utility of oral glucosamine in osteoarthritis may reflect increased synthesis of cartilage proteoglycans (2).* The sulfur component is necessary for the production of the disulfide bonds that are responsible for the rigidity and strength of connective tissue. Many European studies have shown that GS supplementation can accelerate regeneration and the repair of cartilage(3,4).* The results of several large studies showed significant pain reduction and improved joint mobility after supplementing with GS daily (5).* Glucosamine sulfate compared favorably to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen without causing side effects (6,7,8).*

MSM (methyl-sulfonyl-methane) is an organic source of sulfur. Sulfur is necessary for the production of the disulfide bonds that are responsible for the rigidity and strength of connective tissue. Because sulfur is necessary for the formation of connective tissue, MSM has been widely studied for its use in arthritis and other complications of joint inflammation. The results of several studies showed that when supplementing with MSM, joint degeneration and inflammation was significantly decreased (9,10,11).*

Sea Cucumber (pseudocolochirus), also known as Beche-de-mer, is a marine animal indigenous to the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia. The most biologically active component of sea cucumber is the sulfated triterpenoidal oligoglycoside holothurin. These compounds are bioflavonoid-like molecules. Various cultures have traditionally used sea cucumber as a remedy for many ailments including arthritis (12).* The precise anti-arthritic activity is not clearly understood. However, sea cucumber is reported to contain high amounts of mucopolysaccharides and chondrocyte substance, which help form the structure of connective tissue. Several animal and human studies have demonstrated that holothurin, the active constituent, has positive effects on rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis (13).* The results of the human studies indicated patients had diminished morning joint stiffness, increased grip strength and significant pain reduction without any toxicity or side effects.

Hydrolyzed Cartilage is added to the formula because of its highly publicized mucopolysaccharide content. As mentioned earlier, mucopolysaccharides are a vital component of connective tissue.

A recent study looked at the effects of Bromelain supplementation and its effects on individuals with musculoskeletal injuries. Treatment with bromelain resulted in a clear reduction of swelling, pain at rest, pain during movement, and tenderness as compared with baseline (14).

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). This product is not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent any disease.

References:
(1)Murray, RK, Granner, DK, Mayes, PA & Rodwell, VW. Harper's Biochemistry. 1993. pp. 131-141.
(2)Med Hypoth. 48:245, 1997.
(3)Altern Med Rev. 3:27, 1998.
(4)Pharmatherapeutica. 2:504, 1981.
(5)Arzeim Forsch 43:1109, 1993.
(6)Pharmatherapeutica. 3:157, 1982.
(7)Curr Med Res Opin. 8:145, 1982.
(8)J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 20:400, 1997.
(9)Fed Proc. 44:530. 1985.
(10)J Lab Med. 110:1, 1987.
(11)Ann of the NY Acad of Sciences. 411, 1983.
(12)Proc Soc Exp Biol Med. 81:379, 1952.
(13)Fed Proc 26(4): 1197, 1967
(14)Fortschr Med. 113:303, 1995.

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