MICROgenics^® Glucosamine 1500 Complex

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition characterized by the softening of the joint cartilage in the fingers, thumbs, knees, hips, ankles, and spine. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, systemic autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to attack the joints causing inflammation, pain and joint degeneration.

Glucosamine is a major building block of substances called Proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) found in the articular cartilage, tendons and synovial fluid. Glucosamine also stimulates production of hyaluronic acid a compound responsible for lubricating and shock absorbing properties of synovial fluid. In addition, Glucosamine also stimulates the production of chondrocytes (cartilage cells).

Arthritis

• As we age or through injury the body’s ability to restore and manufacture normal cartilage decreases resulting in excessive wear and tear with resultant arthritic problems. Glucosamine supplementation puts back into the body what would normally be there in the absence of arthritis providing effective joint cushioning, lubrication, enhanced mobility, and less pain and inflammation
• Studies have found arthritic patients taking 1500mg of Glucosamine daily showed improvements in joint mobility, pain and inflammation. Noting that several weeks of supplementation is required before clinical efficacy is evident
• Researchers have suggested that Glucosamine not only provides symptom relief but also has the potential to induce rebuilding of damaged cartilage
• A multi-central, randomized, controlled clinical trial comparing glucosamine hydrochloride versus glucosamine sulfate for the treatment of osteoarthritis was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of glucosamine hydrochloride for the treatment of osteoarthritis. Results found symptomatic improvement of joint pain at walking, at rest and stiffness after 6 weeks of treatment. The study concluded that Glucosamine hydrochloride is as effective and safe as glucosamine sulfate for the treatment of osteoarthritis.
• Glucosamine supplementation assists in the management of osteoarthritis
• Proline is a key building block of collagen, strengthening cartilage
• Like Glucosamine, Chondroitin is a major building block found in cartilage called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). This compound in cartilage and connective tissue is responsible for cushioning the bones and allowing them to move freely

Inflammation

• Comparison studies with ibuprofen (NSAID) and glucosamine in treating the symptoms of Osteoarthritis found that Glucosamine was as effective but has a 2-3week slower onset of action
• Scientific research has suggested that glucosamine may have an anti-inflammatory action by preventing the production of inflammatory mediators resulting in a reduction of joint swelling, pain and inflammation associated with arthritis
• Ginger works as a natural anti-inflammatory and stimulates circulation, encouraging nutrients and minerals to reach peripheral areas such as the joints and ligaments to assist in maintaining healthy cartilage