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INGREDIENT INFORMATION
Glucosamine supports joint health and mobility
Glucosamine occurs naturally in the body. It is found in the fluid around the joints and is one of the building blocks of cartilage. Cartilage is the substance that covers and protects the ends of the bones, and that allows the bones to move smoothly against each other.

Research shows that glucosamine helps protect the cartilage inside the joints in several ways2. Firstly, glucosamine stimulates the production of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), which are building blocks of cartilage. The more GAGs the body produces, the more building blocks are available to create healthy cartilage, and prevent wear and tear. Secondly, GAGs are involved in the production of other structures around the joint tissue, such as tendons and synovial fluid; and are thought to stimulate production of hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid helps the synovial fluid in the joint capsule to lubricate the joint, and also acts as a shock absorber to protect the joint.

Thirdly, glucosamine may reduce collagen breakdown, slowing down the wear and tear of the joint tissue3,4. Finally, glucosamine can help reduce inflammation in the joint. Inflammation not only causes pain and may limit the range of motion of the joint, but is also one of the main causes of joint cartilage breakdown in osteoarthritis patients5. Reducing pain and swelling of the joint may help improve the quality of life for those suffering from joint pain, and reducing inflammation may slow down wear and tear of the joint cartilage.

However, those wanting to use Glucosamine to help improve their painful joints, should be aware that it may take up to 12 weeks before results are noticeable. Glucosamine is not a supplement that shows instant results.

Chondroitin supports healthy joint cartilage production
Chondroitin gives cartilage its elasticity by helping it to retain water. Thus, it is an important nutrient to keep joint cartilage healthy6. Studies have found that chondroitin can reduce the activity of enzymes and substances that break down collagen in joints7 while yet other research has demonstrated that it has anti-inflammatory properties8 and can also stimulate repair mechanisms. It is through those combined properties that chondroitin can help reduce joint pain and help improve joint mobility in those suffering from arthritis.

Several studies have shown that a combination of chondroitin and glucosamine is effective in reducing inflammation and cartilage breakdown, as well as to help improve joint pain in arthritis9,10.

MSM
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a form of sulphur and supports healthy connective tissues such as tendons, ligaments, and muscles, which are all involved in keeping a joint stable and functioning properly.

Studies show that supplementing with MSM may help improve joint pain and joint swelling, and reduce joint inflammation in people with osteoarthritis11,12. In one trial this effect was greater when MSM was combined with glucosamine13.