JOINT HEALTH
The good health of joints is most often confirmed by the ability to move or flex the many moving parts of the body freely. This generally is determined by the health of the underlying parts—bones, joints, cartilage (the tough, fibrous tissue that cushions joints), and synovial fluid (a slippery lubricant that covers the places where bone meets bone).

Cartilage is formed mainly of collagen, a protein-rich substance that functions like a kind of glue, holding our bodies together and helping to form tendons and bones. Of the 14 known varieties of collagen, type II collagen is the most abundant form found in cartilage. It is said to be more slippery than ice; its almost complete lack of friction explains why we can use our knees, elbows, fingers, and hips for years without resistance.

The three key components of cartilage are mucopolysaccharides, collagen, and fluid. Normally, tiny cartilage-producing cells called chondrocytes generate new collagen and mucopolysaccharides. Chondrocytes also produce an enzyme that destroys both old collagen and mucopolysaccharides. Additionally, chondrocytes determine the appropriate proportions of collagen, mucopolysaccharides, and water (Duarte 1977).

Extensive research confirms that supplementation with type II collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin, and various other nutrients—along with exercise—can help to support and maintain joint health. To read about nutrients that support joint health, click here.


Arthro-7^® Clinical Test
Arthro-7^® is a best-selling nutritional supplement that includes an exclusive blend of nutrients to support flexibility and joint health. The formula features: type II collagen, which feeds articular cartilage at the cellular level and may help fortify joints; cetyl myristoleate (CMO), sometimes referred to as “WD-40 for joints”; lipase, a digestive enzyme that helps enhance the body 's absorption of nutrients like CMO; and bromelain, a natural enzyme derived from pineapple, noted for its soothing effects. Arthro-7^® also includes turmeric, an ingredient frequently used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine to promote overall joint health. To order Arthro-7^®, click here.


MSM
Methylsulfonylmethane, also known as MSM, is an organic, sulfur-containing compound that occurs naturally in a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, and animals, including humans. It plays an essential role in human nutrition, but the typical modern diet does not provide sufficient amounts (Dennison 1999). Sulfur is necessary for the production of collagen, the primary component of cartilage and connective tissue. It is also speculated that MSM promotes the flexibility and permeability of cell walls, encouraging the intake of nutrients and outflow of toxins (Mindell 1997). Best of all, supplementation with MSM has been shown to positively influence joint mobility and flexibility (Jacob 1999). To order MSM, click here.


Glucosamine
Our bodies use glucosamine in the natural construction and maintenance of cartilage and synovial fluid. Glucosamine is an amino sugar, a precursor of key components that encourage the incorporation of sulfur into cartilage for production and repair (Medline Plus 2006). Studies suggest that participants who received glucosamine supplements experienced stronger and longer-lasting joint health and comfort after six months (Noack 1994). Another study found that glucosamine offered joint support for postmenopausal woman, those most frequently affected by bone and joint concerns (Bruyere 2004). The clinically tested level that yielded such positive results is 1500 milligrams. Individuals with blood sugar concerns should check with their health care practitioner before taking a glucosamine product. Those with shellfish allergies should not use glucosamine. To order glucosamine, click here.

Chondroitin
Chondroitin is another amino sugar used in the construction and maintenance of cartilage. A sulfate found in large water-binding molecules called proteoglycans, it also gives cartilage its elasticity. Study participants who received chondroitin supplements experienced stronger and longer-lasting effects of joint health and comfort after six months. Researchers are also examining how chondroitin may influence the spine (Medline Plus 2006a, 2006b). The clinically tested level that yielded such positive results is 1200 milligrams. To order chondroitin, click here.

Celadrin^®*
Celadrin^® is a blend of cetylated fatty acids that have been shown to promote healthy joint function and comfort. In a placebo-controlled study involving 64 participants, those who received Celadrin^® saw positive effects on knee flexibility and range of motion after 68 days, compared with only modest changes in the placebo group (Hesslink 2002). Researchers hypothesize that the low-fat diet craze has, for some, resulted in a lack of important fatty acids that are needed for various bodily functions, including joint health (Davis 2002). Therefore, supplementation may be particularly important. To order Celadrin^®, click here.
*Celadrin^® is a registered trademark of Imagenetix Corporation.


Shark Cartilage
Shark cartilage may have the ability to positively affect joint health. Its primary benefit comes from two mucopolysaccharides: chondroitin sulfates A and C. Supplementing with shark cartilage nourishes the synovial membranes to support joint health. To order shark cartilage, click here.