Our joints are dynamic tissue, and two opposing processes - the breakdown and removal of worn-out cells and cell components (clastic activity) and the building and regeneration of cells (known as blastic activity) are constantly occurring simultaneously. If blastic and clastic processes are in balance then good health is sustained, but if the rate of breakdown exceeds the rate of repair there will be a net loss of healthy tissue and the emergence of symptoms such as pain and stiffness.
Key nutrients that can support joint health include:
Glucosamine, which is naturally synthesised within the body, but rarely found in natural food sources, provides raw material for the building blocks of cartilage tissue around joints. When there is excess wear, more raw material is needed for the joints and surrounding structures in our bodies. The production of glucosamine may decrease as we age, so many could benefit from taking a glucosamine supplement to support their joint health. At Cytoplan we offer glucosamine in its bioeffective hydrochloride form, as well as a vegan option.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) contains high levels of sulphur, which is important for maintaining normal connective tissue. It has demonstrated benefits to the joint by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the break down of cartilage.
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, accounting for approximately 25% of the body's protein mass. As a major component of connective tissue, it can be found in the skin, muscles, tendons and cartilage in joints. While there are several different types of collagen proteins, it is collagen type II which makes up the fluids and function in the cartilage and joints.
At Cytoplan, we provide a joint supplement which contains a matrix of type II collagen, chondroitin sulphate and hyaluronic acid, which are the building blocks of cartilage. This all-encompassing, high potency supplement is designed to support overall joint health, especially for those with active lifestyles or ageing joints.
Nutrients with anti-inflammatory properties may also be supportive to help improve or relieve pain and stiffness in the joints. Natural nutrients such as Boswellia and curcumin can help to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with many joint conditions. Here at Cytoplan, we also have a range of supplements providing Omega 3 essential fatty acids, which also exhibit anti-inflammatory and stabilising properties.
The constant renewal and repair of cells and tissues requires an adequate supply of nutrients. For example, vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation, and the B vitamins are needed for energy production, which is required for all metabolic processes, including repair. Therefore ensuring a well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet, or taking a synergistic multivitamin and mineral formula should also be a consideration alongside a bioeffective joint health supplement.
What are the best supplements to support joint health?
It is first important to address the basics with all-round nutritional support. Due to the "nutrition gap" we recommend a natural and effective multivitamin and mineral supplement in either "food state" or "wholefood" form, which means the nutrients come complete with associated food factors with which they occur in food, which ensures they are recognised by the body as food and optimally absorbed and utilised. This will help to provide a foundation for health, including joint health. More tailored supplements to support joint health may include nutrients to support the health of the cartilage such as glucosamine, MSM and a type II collagen matrix, as well as nutrients that can help to reduce an inflammatory response such as curcumin, Boswellia and omega-3 fatty acids. Vitamin C is needed for collagen formation. At Cytoplan we have joint support supplements that provide these nutrients in their most bioeffective forms.
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How does collagen support cartilage and healthy joints?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, and a major component of our connective tissue, such as our skin, tendons, bones and cartilage - providing structural support and supporting important processes such as tissue repair.
Our cartilage is a gel-like substance which covers the ends of bones and its primary function is to provide cushioning and reduce friction between bones as they slide over or against each other. Collagen type II is the main structural component of the cartilage matrix, accounting for around 60% of the cartilage and providing structure, firmness and resistance to compression.
Collagen can be found in animal proteins like eggs, chicken, meat and bone broth. We can also synthesise collagen from certain amino acids and nutrients such as vitamins A, C and copper, but as we get older, our ability to produce collagen depletes, which can contribute to wear and tear and degeneration of the cartilage in the joints - and taking a collagen supplement is one possible strategy to mitigate this decline.
At Cytoplan, our type II collagen joint health supplement contains hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulphate, making it identical to the composition of human cartilage.
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