Articles:
Want Healthy Joints?
by Brenda Adderly
The key is in the cartilage
In the Land of Oz, the Tin Man had a very simple way of maintaining healthy joints. When his joints locked up, he simply reached for an oil can and gave them a quick lube. By contrast, our bodies are much more complex, using over 140 different joints to perform an infinite variety of movements with a fluidity the Tin Man could never dream of achieving. So, it isn't surprising that our joints need some special care.
Limb by limb, joints frequently support the equivalent of six times our body weight in repetitive cycles of movement. The rubbery, pliable cartilage pads that line them act as protective shock absorbers, so that we avoid bone-on-bone contact (ouch!) every time we move. Maintaining that cartilage is the key to reducing joint problems.
Cartilage is made up of living tissue that is continually broken down and replaced, and, in an ideal world, that process would take care of itself without any special effort on our part. However, injury, stress on joints--and the aging process itself--can harm cartilage tissue, often without any obvious signals until a lot of damage has been done. The most prevalent joint disease in this country (affecting one in seven Americans)--osteoarthritis--is the result of cartilage damage.
The silence of the joints
Pain is the most obvious way our bodies let us know when we're overdoing things. If we overuse a muscle, at the very least, it will feel a little sore. Cartilage doesn't possess such communication skills because it isn't supplied with nerves. Consequently, we can't experience soreness in cartilage that is undergoing stress, but the stress is there, just the same. By the time we feel pain or discomfort in a joint, a significant amount of injury has occurred. If this sounds terribly alarming, keep in mind that pain or discomfort you associate with a joint may, in fact, be sore muscles or tendons surrounding the area, rather than the joint itself. Getting the situation looked at by an appropriate healthcare practitioner is the best way to ease your concerns and resolve any problems.
On the bright side, it isn't as difficult to prevent joint problems as it may seem. Although genetic predisposition to diseases such as arthritis plays a role, it isn't the overriding factor. Luckily, you can be in control of those things that exert the most influence over your joint health, namely: getting the right nutrients; maintaining a healthy weight; exercising regularly the right way; and knowing something about biomechanics or, how to perform routine tasks (i.e., sitting, standing, talking on the phone, working on the computer) without injuring your joints. (More details about biomechanics, including diagrams of how to do everyday tasks correctly, are included in my book, Maximizing The Arthritis Cure.)
Do your joints need special food?
How do you know if your joints need specific nutrients they aren't already getting? There is no cut-and-dried test that detects a deficiency of nutrient X or Y in your knee joint, for example. However, there is plenty of research that illustrates which nutrients directly impact joint health.
Each nutrient's role becomes clear if we look at what makes a joint function well or poorly. We know that healthy cartilage is the key to maintaining healthy joints, but, more specifically, cartilage fluid is the critical ingredient. In addition to helping absorb shock in the joints, this fluid is the lifeblood of cartilage. Without adequate fluid, cartilage has no means of getting oxygen or nutrients, because, unlike other parts of our body, it contains no blood vessels to do the job. The right nutrients are vital for maintaining cartilage fluid, and replenishing it where damage has already set in.
Two nutrients that can defend your joint health--together
Two specific nutrients, used extensively in the treatment of osteoarthritis, are the first line of defense against cartilage damage: glucosamine and chondroitin sulfates. Both occur naturally in the body and both improve the state of fluid in cartilage, but each one works in a slightly different way. Supplementing with a combination of the two is the most potent weapon against joint deterioration.
Here's how they work: Glucosamine is used by the body to manufacture "proteoglycans," which maintain fluid in the cartilage, and regulates the metabolism of cartilage, making sure that tissue is not unnecessarily destroyed. It also inhibits enzymes that degrade cartilage tissue, and blunts damage from certain chemicals. Chondroitin, itself an ingredient of cartilage tissue, draws in fluid and nutrients directly, since cartilage does not support vasculature. It also fights cartilage-destroying enzymes.
There has been plenty of research validating the efficacy of glucosamine and chondroitin when taken individually, especially in Europe. However, in the last few years, the medical community in this country has begun to recognize that when the two supplements are taken together, there is a definite synergy that occurs.
Last February, Military Medicine published the results of a study at the Port Smith Naval Hospital in Norfolk, Va., where over 30 Navy Seals experienced "significant pain relief" after taking a proprietary formulation of glucosamine and chondroitin for eight weeks. Larger studies are underway, including one with 350 patients at Johns Hopkins, and another, with 1,000 patients, under the auspices of the National Institutes of Health.
Bringing in the cavalry
There are other supplements that enhance the power of glucosamine and chondroitin, and themselves have proved to stimulate healthy joints. One major one is SAMe (S-Adenosylmethionine), which has been shown to reduce pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis. (Sometimes it gets confused with the amino acid methionine, but the two are not the same.) SAMe, which is found naturally in the body, helps cartilage to regenerate and protects its fluid supply.
If you have a deficiency of minerals or trace minerals, your joints will benefit if you take them. Nevertheless, more is not better when it comes to trace minerals, so be sure to stick with the dosages recommended on labels. If the recommended dosage is a range, stick to the lower end to be safe. These are the key ones for joint health: calcium, boron, chromium, copper, magnesium, manganese, selenium, silicon, and zinc, and are best taken in a multimineral combination.
Antioxidants should be part of any healthy lifestyle, and are vital for strong joints, especially vitamins A, C, E, and selenium. Vitamin C is "essential for collagen synthesis and connective tissue repair," explains Robert S. Ivker, D.O., in The Complete Self-Care Guide to Holistic Medicine (Tarcher, 1999). Vitamin E is thought to block destructive enzymes that break down cartilage, Ivker also points out.
Other vitamins and compounds are also important, including: vitamin A (at safe levels); OPCs (oligoproanthocyanidins) from grapes or French maritime pine bark; and the B vitamins -- best taken as a complex, are necessary for the body to produce SAMe. Vitamin D is also necessary to prevent osteoarthritis.
Herbs can provide relief, too, including, suggests Ivker: ginger, curcumin, devil's claw, cayenne, licorice root, yucca, and celery seed extract.
Mitigating the risks of `wear-and-tear' arthritis
Knowing which nutrients are critical for joint health is one side of the prevention story. The other is understanding what risks your joints face. The most common joint disorder, osteoarthritis, has been called "wear-and-tear" arthritis, because, literally, it is caused from wear and tear on joints, most commonly in the knee and hip areas. This tends to happen as we age, although it isn't inevitable. Where there is more stress than a joint can handle, damage occurs.
Moderate your strenuous activity. Recent research published in the American Journal of Medicine illustrates one way wear and tear its toll. The Framingham Study, in which the National Institutes of Health has tracked about 5,000 people in Massachusetts since 1948, shows that certain types of strenuous physical activity increase risk of knee osteoarthritis. Specifically, men and women doing strenuous work, such as mowing with a nonpower mower, shoveling, digging, chopping wood, or brisk cycling, for more than four hours a day, increased their risk of knee osteoarthritis by six times. That doesn't mean that everyone doing this type of work will damage their knees, but the risk is higher.
Lose extra weight. Being overweight increases the risk of joint problems, simply because joints have to bear the stress of the extra pounds. Losing weight not only cuts risk, but has been found to reverse symptoms of osteoarthritis. A study at Harvard Medical School found that women wearing high-heeled shoes increase stress on their knee joints by 23 percent, thereby putting themselves at more risk for osteoarthritis.
Exercise safely and regularly. Exercise, alone, does not put people at risk of joint injury. The Framingham Study, for example, found no increased risk of knee osteoarthritis among marathon runners. One explanation might be that the runners have developed strength in their joints over a period of time, so their joints are well-equipped to handle the task. Both aerobic and weight-bearing exercise are necessary for joint health, but they need to be done without overstraining joints.
A word about joint inflammation
Rheumatoid arthritis--an inflammation of the joints caused by an autoimmune disorder--affects about 2.5 million Americans. Although it is not related to osteoarthritis, many of the same supplements have helped those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, because an individual will often have osteoarthritis, or osteoarthritis-like symptoms, along with rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, enzymes with anti-inflammatory properties have been effective, especially bromelain, trypsin, chymotrypsin, papain, and rutin.
The bottom line
No one has initiated a study to find out exactly how supplements prevent joint disease among healthy people. Such an undertaking would be immense, requiring a large healthy population that is tracked for many years.
Until such a study comes to pass, common sense tells us that we should use the knowledge we do have. For when it comes to our joints, perhaps the biggest risk stems from ignoring the tools we have to live a long, flexible life.
REFERENCES
Adderly, B., Theodosakis, J., and Fox, B. Maximizing the Arthritis Cure. New York: St. Martin's Press, 1998.
Ivker, Robert S., D.O., Anderson, Robert A., M.D., and Trivieri, Larry,, Jr. The Complete Self-Care Guide to Holistic Medicine: Treating Our Most Common Ailments. New York: Tarcher/Putnam, 1999.
Kerrigan, et al. "Knee osteoarthritis and high-heeled shoes," Lancet 351 (9113): 1399-401, May 1998.
Lesfler, C.T. "Glucosamine, Chondroitin and Manganese Ascorbate for degenerative joint disease of the knee or low back. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study," Military Medicine 164:2:85-91, February 1999.
McAlindon, T., et al. "Risk of radiographic and symptomatic knee OA in the elderly," American Journal of Medicine 106:151-157, 1999
Click Here to Read About Synflex Joint Supplement for Humans ands Pets
Additional Information:
Q. Why is Syn-flex considered to be one of the most effective glucosamine products on the market today?
A. We have taken the utmost care to ensure we provide the highest quality, most effective product. To do this, we use only the highest quality and purest ingredients. In fact, we use 98% pure liquid glucosamine with ten other high quality synergistic arthritis-fighting ingredients in a premium formula developed for maximum absorption and relief. In addition, each batch of Syn-flex undergoes a laboratory analysis to ensure ingredient quality and efficacy plus is issued a certificate of analysis.
In the very high quality liquid form, you will absorb much more glucosamine (and other ingredients) than you would with products in pill or capsule form.As a result, most users are able to notice results in about 10-20 days instead of 6-10 weeks (or at all with capsules or low-grade liquid products.)
Q. Are there any side effects?
A. Syn-flex is a very safe product. There are a few things you need to know, however.
- Consult your doctor before taking glucosamine if you are currently pregnant or nursing.
- If you are diabetic, be sure to check your blood glucose regularly, as glucosamine has been shown to increase blood sugars.
- If you allergic to shellfish you should monitor your reaction and discontinue if any adverse affects occur.
- A small percentage of people who take glucosamine may encounter light diarrhea or stomach upset. This can be avoided by splitting dosage between morning and evening.
Q. Does Syn-flex interact with any drugs or medications?
A. Syn-flex is an all-natural product and should not interact with any drugs or medications.
Q. Is Syn-flex sold in stores?
A. Syn-flex is sold in a number of health food stores, health clubs, hair salons, chiropractors offices, veterinarian offices, and the like. However, Syn-flex is not available in any large retail stores at this time. We prefer to deal direct with our customers, and being the manufacturer of Syn-flex, we are able to offer you the best price and mail you the product free of charge (in the United States).
Q. Why is better, stronger, healthier cartilage important?
A. When your cartilage is damaged, either as a result of primary osteoarthritis or flowing from an injury (secondary osteoarthritis), you will suffer the consequences. Since cartilage protects the bones from coming into contact with one another, the opposite result is extremely painful. In a great many cases, it can result in the need for surgery.
As your cartilage begins to lose its “fluid-like” capabilities, the process of osteoarthritis begins. Whether the result of aging, genetics, over use or injury, some 40 million Americans suffer from with this debilitating condition. Whether you suffer this condition or are trying to prevent it, every step that you can take to avoid the consequences is well worth it.
Q. What exactly IS glucosamine?
A. Glucosamine, is a charged sugar molecule that is a key component of the extracellular matrix of cartilage (grout between the cartilage cells). It absorbs and releases water with each step, thereby acting as a shock absorber for the joints. With more glucosamine there, is more joint protection.
Glucosamine is a natural sugar produced by your body. It is the essential and principal ingredient that determines the quantity of proteoglycans (water-holding) molecules that also formed in the body. The greater the amount of glucosamine in the body, the greater the amount of proteoglycans. The proteoglycans are large, water-binding molecules made up of (both) proteins and sugars. It is important to understand that they are a major building block of healthy, vital cartilage. Glucosamine also stimulates the production of glycosaminoglycans (GAG's) which are important proteins found in cartilage. They serve to "bind" the water within the cartilage matrix. Glucosamine supplements are made from the shells of shellfish.
Q. Is Syn-flex approved by the FDA?
A. Glucosamine products are nutritional supplements and are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Q. Will I need to take this product daily for the rest of my life to keep my hip joint in repair or will I be able to reduce the dosage or even stop taking it at some point?
A. It is indeed advisable to maintain a daily dose of 1/4 oz. (1.5 teaspoons) per day. Those over 220 pounds or so may wish to maintain a higher dosage than this. For athletes, those using Syn-flex as a arthritis easing measure, or those with mild arthritis, we recommend using 1/4 oz. for the first 8 weeks, and then dropping the dosage in half. Of course, if any pains return or cartilage continues to deteriorate, increase your dosage. We recommend that mostly everyone take a double dose (1/2 oz. per day) for the first 7-10 days.
Q. My friend is allergic to shellfish, but has been taking glucosamine for four years now without any problem. Can she take Syn-flex?
A. Your friend can absolutely take Syn-flex. As long as glucosamine hasn't been a problem in the past, Syn-flex will be fine for her. (The antigen in shellfish that causes an allergic reaction has been removed from Syn-flex. Nonetheless, we encourage you to consult with your physician before using glucosamine.)
In fact, new research has shown that glucosamine is very unlikely to cause an allergic reaction in someone allergic to shellfish. In most cases, allergies are caused by proteins in shellfish, not chitin, a carbohydrate from which glucosamine is extracted. Furthermore, there is no crossover between the acid derived chitin from shells and the antigens that cause shellfish allergies since the acid process required to leach the chitin from the shell strips away the carbohydrate side chains that would be antigenic.
Q. I have never tried Syn-flex. What does it taste like?
A. Syn-flex has a tart green apple flavor. If you prefer you can mix it with your favorite drink. Some prefer to take a sip of water after using it.
Q. Is it true that Syn-flex will ease osteoarthritis pain in dogs, cats, and horses too?
A. Yes. Glucosamine was used to help with arthritis in horses many years before the beneficial effects for humans were known. Now with the high quality glucosamine, the liquid formula for maximum absorption, and the eleven other beneficial ingredients, your dog or cat's arthritis or hip dysplasia can be alleviated with Syn-flex.
Q. Do pets Like the taste of Syn-flex?
A. The large majority of dogs like the flavor and administration is very easy. In about 10% of cases, you may need to put the Syn-flex on a treat, mix it in with their food, or administer orally.
Q. What's the difference between Syn-flex and Syn-flex for pets?
A. In fact, they are the exact same product. The only difference is the dosage amount. The reason why we have separate "products" on the order form is so we can keep track of our sales.
Q. I am an athlete. Can Syn-flex benefit me?
A. Absolutely. (See our website and review the comments of some world-class athletes who use it.)
Q. Who is Activex America and how did you come up with Syn-flex?
Activex America was founded in 1999 by J.R. Rogers. In 1993, J.R. fell off a two story building and ended up with Spinal Stenosis and Secondary Arthritis in his neck. He tried pretty much everything he could find, but little helped and what did help often had very serious side effects. A friend of his was using a prototype liquid glucosamine to treat his thoroughbred horses and was using something very close to the Syn-flex formula to ease arthritis in his horses. J.R. tried some of the formula and within four days he noticed that his pain had been significantly reduced. Within about 15 days, his inflammation had subsided and he had much greater mobility in his neck.
J. R. began passing out samples to his friends and they were astounded by the results they were getting. He knew that this product was one that belonged in the hands of everyone who suffered from OA. He founded Activex America and beginning in July of 2001, Syn-flex was first made available to general public worldwide. It has been an incredible success with a rapidly growing audience of direct purchasers and wholesale buyers. In fact, Activex America is the largest direct-to-consumer retailer of liquid glucosamine in the world.
Q. My doctor specifically recommended taking Syn-flex. Are there many doctors who recommend Syn-flex?
A. Almost all doctors now are recommending glucosamine, and many are indeed specifically recommending Syn-flex. Generally they either use Syn-flex themselves or have heard great things about Syn-flex from their patients.
Q. I see that Syn-flex contains both Glucosamine Sulfate and Glucosamine HCL. Why is Glucosamine HCL added to your product?
A. A medical study released in January of 2001 confirmed that glucosamine sulfate is clinically proven to assist those who suffer from arthritis. However, that is only part of the picture. Another medical study conducted several years ago compared the two ingredients. That study found the HCL form of glucosamine created even more cartilage components and may have a higher bio-availability. We have combined both ingredients to ensure you benefit from both. In fact, Syn-flex contains 1250mg of glucosamine per daily 1/4oz. dose.
Q. I know a lot of people who use it and they all swear by it. What makes Syn-flex so effective?
A. Certainly the ingredients themselves play a major role here. As well, it should be clear that a liquid formula is going to provide the greatest possible absorption into your system.
Q. What if there is NO cartilage left in a joint.... what can Syn-flex do....??
A. When there is no cartilage left, Syn-flex will regenerate as much cartilage as is possible. However, when a bone on bone situation has occurred it is very challenging.
Syn-flex will be your best shot at saving any cartilage that may be remaining and easing your pain. Additionally, if your cartilage in one joint has disappeared, you should be taking liquid glucosamine to protect other joints throughout your body.
If you are currently using NSAIDs or COX-2 inhibitors, I would suggest not taking these as you are putting yourself at risk for many severe side effects. Furthermore, there is recent research suggesting taking these will actually hasten the deterioration of your cartilage.
Q. I have noticed that pills and capsules usually contain both glucosamine and chondroitin. Does Syn-flex have chondroitin in it?
A. Yes. The shark cartilage is comprised of approximately 20% chondroitin sulfate.
Q. Why do you use Shark Cartilage to derive the Chondroitin Sulfate in Syn-flex?
A. The two most common compounds that are used for Chondroitin are Bovine (Cow) Trachea and Shark Cartilage. We chose to use shark cartilage over Bovine due to the risk of BSE (Mad Cow Disease).
Q. I know that most joint products contain glucosamine. What are some of these other ingredients all about?
A. All of the ingredients contained in Syn-flex are there because they assist in building healthy joints. Without going into a lot of detail about them, boswellin, yucca, and omega 3 & 6 fatty acids each contribute to joint health and fight inflammation. Manganese and ascorbic acid are added to aid your body's ability to produce and absorb glucosamine.
Q. Are there any special instructions other than what is on the label? Also, why are there slight changes in the color of the product?
A. You should not refrigerate Syn-flex. It has a shelf life of two years so you can certainly store it at a room temperature for that long. A slight change in color happens sometimes. It is simply something that happens naturally as a result of exposure to light.
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