Helping Arthritic Joints (Part 2)
Many who contact me with joint problems have already tried joint health supplements with little or no success. We make what appear to be minor changes in dosages and within a few months most have significant benefits.
Older formulas
Most joint supplements are heavily weighted towards glucosamine sulphate (GS). This is because most of the original research into joint supplements was focused on glucosamine. A second reason could be that GS is relatively inexpensive. Good quality Chondroitin Sulphate (CS) costs ten times that of glucosamine.
These older style formulations typically have something like a 4:1 ratio of GS to CS. The most recent research shows that chondroitin is more effective but that glucosamine is also important. This research confirms the CS has multiple benefits for cartilage and general joint function. Most importantly it seems to improve the function of the chondrocyte cells that secrete and maintain cartilage.
About 4 years ago I started experimenting with different ratios of GS to CS. I found that a 1:1 ratio had a huge impact on joint health. I later started to review the scientific literature and found there were many studies on the benefits of CS.
Chondroitin prescribed in Europe
It is also worth noting that CS is available as a prescription medication in over 20 countries including Europe. The European Medicines Agency compared Chondroitin to a commonly prescribed pharmaceutical anti-inflammatory.
They found it was equally effective as the pharmaceutical but with no reported significant side effects. Certainly my experience shows that at the right doses CS is very effective and is very well tolerated.
On the basis of recent research research I re-formulated my Bettaflex 18 months ago. It now has a daily dose has 800mg of CS, 800 of GS and 200mg of a 95% curcumin (from turmeric) extract. In most cases I start people on a double dose delivery 1600 mg of CS and GS and 400mg of 95% curcumin.
Will it work for you?
Scientific evidence is helpful in understanding of disease processes. However the real test is to whether something actually helps people. I spoke to a client this year who experienced significant improvements in her thumbs and knee after only 8 weeks on higher doses. I have spoken to another today whose pain from spine arthritis had much improved.
The best approach is to contact me for a personalised joint health plan. I will ask some questions and then prepare a comprehensive programme that covers diet, supplements and where appropriate lifestyle recommendations.
John Arts (B.Soc.Sci, Dip Tch, Adv.Dip.Nut.Med.) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health. If you have questions or need help you can contact John 0800 423559. You can email John at john@abundant.co.nz.
Please note that the health advice given through this column is for general educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any health problem. © John Arts 2019