People regularly e-mail or phone looking for a supplement that will help alleviate their aches and pains. When asked if we have a product, I always say, “It depends.”
Joint Maintenance Formula is a blend of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, as well as gelatin, magnesium and bromelain. Originally developed for people who suffer from osteoarthritis, I regularly hear from people with tennis elbow and other repetitive motion pain who find relief with Joint Maintenance Formula, so when pain is an issue, I always suggest this product.
Glucosamine is an amino sugar that is the fundamental building block of the molecules that attract and hold water in cartilage. Amino sugars are the basis of virtually all connective tissues and lubricating fluids in the body. Although the body makes glucosamine, injuries and aging may result in a deficiency. Supplemental glucosamine has been shown to be a successful treatment of osteoarthritis by effectively controlling pain and halting or reversing the progression of the disease. Several studies have shown that besides stimulating the production of cartilage, glucosamine helps to reduce pain and improve joint function in those with osteoarthritis.
Chondroitin sulfate helps promote water retention in the cartilage, which is essential for shock absorption. It has been reported to maintain joint viscosity, stimulate the mechanisms for cartilage repair, and inhibit enzymes that break down cartilage. In the early stages of joint disease there are changes in chondroitin that affect the response of the chondrocytes (cells that form cartilage) to damage in the cartilage that surrounds the joints. When taken orally, chondroitin provides the necessary compounds for the formation of healthy tissue that otherwise may not be available due to the joint disease.
Bromelain is an extract from the pineapple stem and acts as a natural anti-inflammatory. Many times, new Joint Maintenance Formula users will call us 4 or 5 days after they’ve started the product to report that the product is making an amazing difference for them. When we get these early reports, we know it’s the bromelain providing relief.
Glucosamine and chondroitin don’t work for everyone who has joint issues. The ingredients also take a period of time to work into our system. For this reason, we suggest that you take the product for two months, and then evaluate if the product is providing the desired relief.
Another supplement that may help with pain relief is Advanced Omega-3. Omega-3 fatty acids were originally added to our product line because EPA and DHA, the compounds in the fish oil, working together provide great heart health benefits. However, in addition to omega-3 heart health benefits, studies show that EPA is also a great overall inflammation fighter.
Each two softgel serving of Cooper Complete Advanced Omega-3 provides 1,000 mg EPA and 200 mg DHA. Our general recommendation for people experiencing pain is to double-up the normal serving and to take four softgels daily for a few weeks to see if that provides relief. After relief is achieved, an attempt can be made to go back down to the two softgels daily and see if pain relief is maintained.
Jill Turner is VP of Operations for Cooper Concepts, the company that markets Cooper Complete nutritional supplements. E-mail jsturner@cooperwellness.com or call 972-560-3262 with your questions and comments regarding supplements.
No comments:
Post a Comment