Are all Joint Supplements created equal?
There are so many joint products on the market for pets these days and it's great to have a choice. But have you ever wondered exactly what makes a joint support supplement effective, what is in it and why?
Usually they will contain one if not all of the following ; Glucosamine, Chondroitin and MSM.
Glucosamine is a natural sugar compound found in joint cartilage that protects the joint and reduces inflammation or swelling.
Chondroitin, also called Chondroitin sulfate, is a structural component of cartilage that gives cartilage its nutrients, fluidity and elasticity.
Methylsufonylmethane, more commonly called MSM, is an organic sulfur compound responsible for producing many structural components of joint cartilage.
How Do They Work?
Overall, Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and MSM work together naturally to nourish joints and repair cartilage.
Glucosamine supplements contain either Glucosamine sulphate or Glucosamine hydrochloride, which are both derivatives of the Glucosamine found in seafood. There is also a vegetarian form of Glucosamine hydrochloride available. However, Glucosamine sulphate has been studied more and is believed to be more effective. (Our Joint Care plus contains Glucosamine Sulphate extracted from Shellfish)
Chondroitin assists Glucosamine in protecting joints by creating a flexible connection between connective tissue and the protein filaments of cartilage. This prevents enzymes from damaging the cartilage and it maintains the nourishing fluid within the joint cartilage, which provides nutrients and absorbs shock from the joint. (Ours is also from Shellfish)
MSM works along with Glucosamine and Chondroitin to maintain joint health and increase joint mobility and is usually chemically engineered as it will contain less sulphur this way.
