Joint Supplements Can Reduce Pain and Repair Cartilage

When we're young, most of us take our flexible joints for granted. Our cartilage, the connective tissue that permits joints to move freely, is in fine shape. But as we age, many of us experience some form of joint pain or discomfort. Turning to natural joint supplements can be a much smarter choice than taking pharmaceutical medications.

If you see a doctor, he or she will often prescribe an NSAID-type (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory) medication, which can temporarily relieve pain, but can also bring unwanted side effects. In the past couple of years, NSAIDS such as Vioxx and Celebrex have been in the news, and not in a positive light. These drugs were known to cause ulcers and increase the risk of renal (kidney) failure, but they were finally pulled off the market when it came to light that users were at much higher risk for heart attack and stroke.

Joint supplements are a much safer and more effective way of dealing with joint pain and deterioration. Glucosamine sulfate, probably the most well-known joint supplement, is even starting to be recognized by the conservative medical community. Its effectiveness in reducing cartilage deterioration and stimulating cartilage repair has been shown in more than 20 double-blind studies and hundreds of scientific investigations.

Chondroitin sulfate is often paired with glucosamine in joint supplements. Chondroitin is a naturally-occurring substance that helps to give cartilage its elasticity. Its effects have not been as thoroughly studied as those of glucosamine, but preliminary research shows promise. Until further research is conclusive in one direction or another, most nutritionists advice taking a glucosamine supplement that includes chondroitin.

MSM (methyl sulfonyl methane) is another substance that is found in many of the best joint supplements. MSM works by delivering sulfur in a form the body can easily assimilate. Sulfur helps to maintain the integrity of connective tissue and is thus an important component of joint health.

So a supplement that combines glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM can get you started on the road toward healthy, pain-free joints.