James F. Balch, M.D. and Mark Stengler, N.D. See book keywords and concepts | Note: glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are specific remedies only for osteoarthritis.
Super Prescription #2 Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
Take 2,000 to 8,000 mg daily. MSM has natural anti-inflammatory benefits and contains the mineral sulfur, an integral component of cartilage. Reduce the dosage if diarrhea occurs.
Super Prescription #3 Fish oil
Take a daily dosage of at least 1.8 mg of DHA and 1.2 mg of EPA. Fish oil contains a direct source of the omega-3 fatty acids that reduce joint inflammation and promote joint lubrication. | Joe Graedon, M.S. and Teresa Graedon, Ph.D. See book keywords and concepts | I stopped the glucosamine and chondroitin and am hoping my readings will come back down. But now my knees ache again.
MSM and SAMe
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a naturally occurring compound found in many fruits and vegetables. It has been widely promoted as an arthritis remedy, but there is very little research to support the testimonials. One preliminary study reported some relief from pain but not stiffness.147 Despite the lack of scientific proof, some readers do report success with this dietary supplement. | A review in the Journal of the American Medical Association of all the studies published between 1966 and 1999 concluded: "Trials of glucosamine and chondroitin preparations for OA [osteoarthritis] symptoms demonstrate moderate to large effects, but quality issues and likely publication bias suggest that these effects are exaggerated. Nevertheless, some degree of efficacy appears probable for these preparations."143
Another analysis of 15 well-conducted trials of G&C for knee arthritis concluded that there was "structural efficacy" but called for further research.144 So far, so good. | Carol Simontacchi See book keywords and concepts | So far, glucosamine and chondroitin have not been found to have serious side effects. The most common problems have been increased intestinal gas and loose stools. It has been suggested that switching brands can help to relieve these problems.
Because glucosamine is an amino sugar, however, it is thought that it may worsen insulin resistance, a major cause of diabetes. Therefore, people with diabetes should monitor their blood-sugar levels particularly carefully when using this supplement. | Mark Hyman, M.D. See book keywords and concepts | She felt so good that she'd begun giving her pet poodle, Maxine, some glucosamine and chondroitin, and Maxine's response was similar to hers. Neither of them, noted Sylvia, experienced any side effects.
Submyth: Diabetes Isn't Curable
Diabetes, the fifth leading cause of death in our country, may exemplify aging better than any other condition. Diabetics tend to age faster than almost any other people due to the disease's wide-ranging negative effects; they suffer accelerated damage to almost all their organ systems. | There are many testimonials that mirror the research findings about glucosamine and chondroitin. Take Sylvia: At seventy-two, Sylvia was a tremendously active senior. Aerobics, tennis, yoga, dance, hiking, and golf were all part of her life. Sylvia was in excellent health—fit, slender, and happy with her life. Her only complaint was that her knees kept her from doing as much as her head and the rest of her body told her she could do.
Sylvia truly hated taking medication, even though she had been willing to try the usual prescription anti-inflammatories. | Millions of arthritis sufferers have found relief from their pain with nonprescription, natural supplements called glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. Glucosamine, a natural substance present in the body, is also found in high quantities in the shells of crustaceans such as crabs, lobster, and shrimp. Glucosamine not only relieves symptoms, but reduces the joint damage that occurs in arthritis; it puts out the fire as well as turning off the smoke alarm.
Chondroitin is a member of a family of compounds called proteoglycans, which combine protein and sugar molecules. | Yet there's also a growing body of evidence showing that natural nontoxic treatments, including the previously discussed glucosamine and chondroitin, not only relieve symptoms but also reduce joint damage. A study in the British medical journal Lancet (January 27, 2001) looked at 212 patients with degenerative arthritis of the knee. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study (i.e. | The Life Extension Editorial Staff See book keywords and concepts | Currently, over 5 million Americans take glucosamine or glucosamine and chondroitin combinations (Maher 2001).
Glucosamine appears to be even more effective in the form of glucosamine sulfate. Like glucosamine, sulfate is a component of joint cartilage. The sulfate also appears to strengthen the healing effects of glucosamine. Here are some of the studies on glucosamine sulfate.
A group of 20 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee was given either 500 mg of glucosamine sulphate 3 times a day, or a placebo. | Phyllis A. Balch, CNC See book keywords and concepts | Citrin
Citrin is a trademarked name for a standardized herbal extract from the fruit of the Garcinia cambogia plant, also known as Indian berry. It inhibits the synthesis of fatty acids in the liver, promotes the burning of body fat as fuel, and suppresses the appetite. Its primary usefulness is in treating obesity, although it may also aid in preventing or slowing atherosclerosis and heart disease. It does not affect the nervous system or cause any known side effects. Citrin is an ingredient in a number of different products sold by various manufacturers. | Gale Maleskey See book keywords and concepts | The way that glucosamine and chondroitin work is similar to pumping air into a punctured tire. If you can pump air into the tire as quickly as it leaks out, you can keep it from going flat, says Amal Das, M.D. an orthopedic surgeon with Hendersonville Orthopedic Associates in North Carolina.
When taken together, glucosamine and chondroitin seem to slow the loss of cartilage from the joint by pumping more cartilage-generating nutrients into the body, says Dr. Das. | A Steady Supply of Building Materials
One of the arthritis treatments that has hit the spotlight is the supplement combo glucosamine and chondroitin, two substances that your body makes to help build and protect cartilage. In studies, these supplements do appear to slow the progression of the disease and help to relieve pain. But researchers haven't found evidence that they rebuild lost cartilage.
Remember that worn tire? The way that glucosamine and chondroitin work is similar to pumping air into a punctured tire. | Although we produce our own supplies of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, our aging bodies can always use some help from supplements, says Or, Das. The glucosamine In supplements comes from chltfn, a compound that forms crab shells. Chondroitin sulfate is found In cartilage. Although cow cartilage is usually the source* it doesn't matter what animal the cartilage is from.
Apart from their absorption rates, another difference between glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate may lie in how they go about the business of saving cartilage from destruction. | Jack Challem See book keywords and concepts | Nutrients That Can Help
For osteoarthritis, supplements of glucosamine and chondroitin, about 1,200 to 1,500 mg of each daily, have been shown to reduce pain and inflammation. One excellent study found that glucosamine supplements can help rebuild articular cartilage, and chondroitin appears to have some anti-inflammatory properties. (For more details, review chapter 10.) Vitamin C is needed for the formation of collagen and cartilage, as are manganese and sulfur. A minimum of 500 mg of vitamin C may be needed. | At the time of their initial popularity, glucosamine and chondroitin were supported by tantalizing evidence but limited clinical experience. The groundswell of interest in these supplements prompted physicians to conduct many clinical trials with people, which have confirmed that the supplements are effective in relieving pain and in restoring the cartilage pads that protect joints. Many of these studies also included vitamin C, an essential nutrient needed for the formation of cartilage and other tissue proteins. | In particular, glucosamine and chondroitin help rebuild articular cartilage and also have anti-inflammatory properties, which may explain why they reduce joint pain. These two actions likely reduce the influx of white blood cells into joints, where they would release inflammation-promoting free radicals.
In one study, Alan F. Philippi, M.D., of the U.S. Navy treated thirty-two navy SEALs in their forties who had chronic knee or low-back pain or both. | SAMe has often been recommended for treating inflammation and arthritis: it donates sulfur molecules to glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, enabling the body to build new collagen and cartilage.
SAMe also has been found helpful in treating depression, though B-complex vitamins can boost SAMe levels and are less expensive. Its benefit in depression suggests a common biochemical defect with inflammation. Depression is frequently associated with some inflammatory diseases such as asthma, Alzheimer's, coronary artery disease, and diabetes. | It is very possible that people would have less need for glucosamine and chondroitin supplements if they had regularly consumed homemade soups.
The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils inhibit some of the enzymes involved in breaking down articular cartilage, so eating less fish also may increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis. Allergylike food sensitivities also may influence symptoms of osteoarthritis. Exposure to allergens often varies, and this could explain why many arthritics feel better or worse from day to day.
How Common Is Osteoarthritis? | There is evidence suggesting that glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are synergistic, with glucosamine enhancing the production of new cartilage and chondroitin slowing the breakdown of cartilage. Many supplements contain both, and people with osteoarthritis should consider taking 1,200 to 1,500 mg of glucosamine and 1,200 mg of chondroitin daily. As part of an osteoarthritic regimen, 500 to 1,000 mg of vitamin C should be included. Although some of the described studies used manganese ascorbate, this type of vitamin C is difficult to find. Any form of vitamin C should suffice. | Bill Gottlieb See book keywords and concepts | GLUCOSAMINE AND CHONDROITIN: For Older Workers
The supplements glucosamine and chondroitin can help decrease the aches and pains of RSI, particularly in older data-entry workers, Dr.
Markison says. He recommends a supplement with 500 milligrams of glucosamine and 400 milligrams of chondroitin; take three a day if you weigh more than 110 pounds and two a day if you weigh less.
WATER: 64 Ounces a Day Is Essential
Staying well-hydrated boosts the circulation of the body pushing pain-relieving oxygen and nutrients into the areas hit by RSI, Dr. Markison says. | James A. Duke, Ph.D. See book keywords and concepts | Unfortunately, only about half of the people who use glucosamine and chondroitin experience noticeable improvement in their osteoarthritis symptoms. So I'm inclined to agree with the experts who suggest trying these supplements for a few months. If they help, keep taking them. If not, stop.
Glucosamine and chondroitin are available wherever supplements are sold. The recommended dose of glucosamine is 500 milligrams three times a day; for chondroitin, 400 milligrams three times a day. I take both for my arthritic aches. I think they help. sam-e (S-adenosylmethionine). | The Life Extension Editorial Staff See book keywords and concepts | W PRODUCT AVAILABILITY
Super GLA/DHA, DHEA, Life Flora, Nutra Flora, Silibinin Plus, Life Extension Mix, Bone Assute, Super K, SAMe, L-theanine, glucosamine and chondroitin Capsules, DL-Phenylalanine Plus Powder, and L-tyrosine Plus Powder can be ordered by calling (800) 544-4440 or by ordering online at www.lef.org.
Macular Degeneration
Macular: from the Latin word, macula, meaning spot
The macula is the central and most vital area of the retina. It records images and sends them via the optic nerve from the eye to the brain. | For associated arthritis, glucosamine and chondroitin will help repair and improve joint function and provide pain relief.
• The amino acids phenylalanine and tyrosine may help chronic pain by improving the function of neurotransmitters and protecting endorphins, our body's natural painkilling substances. In addition, tyrosine has been shown in controlled studies to ease symptoms of depression.
© SUMMARY
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex disorder of the immune system that may affect multiple systems of the body. Symptoms range from mild to fatal. | Nutrients known to improve joint health/function, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, SAMe, hydrolyzed gelatin, omega-3 fatty acids, GLA, and antioxidants can be added into the diet of people who exetcise and are concerned about joint health. These nutrients are particularly helpful to active people who already have joint problems they wish to address.
Reducing Inflammation
Natural supplements have been shown to decrease the systemic inflammation that is found in many disease states and that may accompany sustained physical activity. | PRODUCT AVAILABILITY
ArthroPro, SAMe, Mega GLA, Mega EPA, Super GLA/DHA, DHEA, glucosamine and chondroitin capsules, MSM, vitamin K, vitamin E, Gamma E Tocopherol/Tocotrienols, Super Curcumin (with bioperine), Inflacin, nettle leaf extract, and Life Extension Mix are available by telephoning (800) 544-4440 or by ordering online at www.lef.org. Blood tests may be ordered by calling (800) 208-3444.
ADDENDUM: FOOD AND ARTHRITIS... | For skeletal fractures, glucosamine and chondroitin may promote healing. Four 1000-mg combination capsules, taken twice daily, are suggested. Several other nutrients mentioned for wound healing are also recommended for fracture healing.
9. Taken orally, centella may improve collagen formation and reduce the effects of inflammation: one 500-mg capsule daily, or applied as an ointment, 1-2 applications daily.
10. In people with adequate levels of HGH and IGF-1, wounds heal faster than in those with low levels. | Jean Carper See book keywords and concepts | He suggests dividing the glucosamine and chondroitin supplements into two to four doses, taken throughout the day with food. He and other experts also advise adjusting the dose to fit your individual response. Some people get better right away and cut their initial doses by one-half to one-third, says Dr. Theodosakis. People who are obese or on diuretics may need higher doses, some European studies suggest.
How Quickly Does It Work?
Some people feel a little better within a week or two. Generally, improvement should be noticeable within eight weeks. | Das in his new research, is a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin known as Cosamin DS (Double Strength) made by the Nutramax Company in Baltimore. Each pill contains 500 milligrams of glucosamine chlorhydrate, 400 milligrams of chondroitin sulfate, as well as 66 milligrams of vitamin C and 10 milligrams of manganese. Licensed health professionals can obtain it by calling 800-925-5187. Consumers can call the same number to get the name of a local or mail-order dispensing pharmacy that sells the product. | It seems likely that glucosamine sulfate alone (as proved by many well-designed studies), or a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin, including Cosamin (as many case histories support) may all work. The only way to really find out which works best for you is to do some trial-and-error experimenting; test them yourself and go with the one or ones that give the most relief.
Will It Work for Other Forms of Arthritis? Perhaps. | Consumer Concerns
You can buy glucosamine and chondroitin sulfates separately in varying strengths under numerous brands in health food stores, pharmacies and other retail outlets. Glucosamine is more readily available than chondroitin. Although Dr. Theodosakis insists that all forms of glucosamine (sulfate, hydrocholoride, n-acetyl, chlorhydrate, D-glucosamine) are essentially the same, another expert on glucosamines, Michael Murray, N.D., of Seattle, vigorously disagrees. Dr. |
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