Comparison of dietary supplements for joints in composition and efficiency
I. Introduction to the world of dietary supplements for joints: Review of components and mechanisms of action
Joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and others, are a common problem that reduces the quality of life of millions of people. Along with traditional methods of treatment, such as drug therapy and physiotherapy, biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are widely used as a means to maintain joint health and relieve symptoms. However, the effectiveness of dietary supplements remains the subject of discussions, and the choice of the optimal product requires an attentive analysis of the composition and understanding of the mechanisms of the action of components. This section is devoted to a detailed examination of the most common dietary supplements for the joints and their potential impact on the health of the musculoskeletal system.
IA The main components of dietary supplements for the joints:
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Glucosamine:
- Chemical structure and sources: Glucosamine is an aminosaccharide that is naturally present in the human body and is a key building block of cartilage. In dietary supplements, it is most often represented in the form of glucosamine of sulfate or glucosamine of hydrochloride obtained from crustaceans (shrimp, crabs) or mushrooms.
- The mechanism of action: It is assumed that glucosamine stimulates the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans (GAG), the main components of the cartilage matrix, such as hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate. This can contribute to the restoration and maintenance of the structure of the cartilage, as well as a slowdown in its degradation. In addition, glucosamine can have anti -inflammatory properties, inhibiting the production of pro -inflammatory cytokines.
- Glucosamine forms (sulfate vs. hydrochloride): Glucosamine sulfate is considered a more bio -accessual form than glucosamine hydrochloride, although studies on this topic are given by conflicting results. Some studies suggest that sulfate ion plays an important role in the mechanism of glucosamine, enhancing its chondroprotective effect.
- Dosage: The recommended daily dose of glucosamine is 1,500 mg, usually divided into several techniques.
- Potential side effects: Glucosamine is generally well tolerated, but some people may have side effects, such as stomach disorder, nausea, diarrhea or constipation. People with allergies for seafood should be careful when taking glucosamine obtained from crustaceans.
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Hondroitine Sulfate:
- Chemical structure and sources: Chondroitin sulfate is glycosaminoglican, also an important component of cartilage matrix. It consists of repeated disaccharide units containing glucuronic acid and n-acetylgalactosamine sulfate. In dietary supplements, chondroitin sulfate is usually obtained from the cartilage of cattle, pigs or sharks.
- The mechanism of action: Chondroitin sulfate has the ability to bind water, providing hydration of cartilage tissue and its elasticity. It can also inhibit enzymes that destroy cartilage, such as metal proproteinase (MMP) and agrekanase. In addition, chondroitin sulfate can stimulate the synthesis of proteoglycans and collagen, contributing to the restoration of cartilage. Like glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate can have an anti -inflammatory effect.
- The size of the chondroitin sulfate molecule and bioavailability: The size of the chondroitin sulfate molecule can vary depending on the source and method of production. Larger molecules can be absorbed worse in the intestines, which reduces bioavailability. Low molecular weight chondroitin sulfate can have greater bioavailability and, therefore, more effective.
- Dosage: The recommended daily dose of chondroitin sulfate is 800-1200 mg, usually divided into several tricks.
- Potential side effects: Chondroitin sulfate is usually well tolerated, but some people may have side effects, such as stomach disorder, nausea or diarrhea. People taking anticoagulants (thinning blood) should be careful when taking chondroitin sulfate, since it can enhance their effect.
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Methyl sulfonylmetatan (MSM):
- Chemical structure and sources: MSM is an organic compound of sulfur that is found in nature in plants, animals and man. It is a source of sulfur necessary for the synthesis of collagen and other important molecules in the body. In dietary supplements, MSM is usually produced synthetically.
- The mechanism of action: MSM can have an anti -inflammatory effect, inhibiting the production of pro -inflammatory cytokines. It can also have antioxidant properties, protecting the cells from damage by free radicals. It is believed that MSM contributes to the formation of collagen, strengthening the cartilage and ligaments.
- Dosage: The recommended daily dose of MSM is 1000-3000 mg, usually divided into several techniques.
- Potential side effects: MSM is usually well tolerated, but some people may have side effects, such as stomach disorder, nausea, diarrhea or headache.
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Hyaluronic acid:
- Chemical structure and sources: Hyaluronic acid is glycosaminoglican, present in the skin, joints and other tissues of the body. It has a high ability to bind water, providing hydration and fabric elasticity. In dietary supplements, hyaluronic acid can be obtained from roosters rowers or by bacterial fermentation.
- The mechanism of action: In the joints, hyaluronic acid is the main component of the synovial fluid, which lubricates the articular surfaces and provides shock absorption. With osteoarthritis, the concentration and quality of hyaluronic acid in the synovial fluid are reduced. The intake of hyaluronic acid in the form of dietary supplements can contribute to replenishing its deficiency, improving the lubrication of the joints and reducing friction. Some studies show that hyaluronic acid can also have anti -inflammatory properties.
- Methods of introduction (orally vs. injections): Hyaluronic acid can be taken orally in the form of a dietary supplement or administered directly into the joint in the form of injections. Injections of hyaluronic acid (viscosapplement) are considered a more effective way to deliver the drug to the joint than the oral intake, since with oral administration, hyaluronic acid can be split in the gastrointestinal tract. However, the oral intake of hyaluronic acid can be a more convenient and less invasive method of treatment.
- Dosage: The recommended daily dose of hyaluronic acid is 80-200 mg.
- Potential side effects: Hyaluronic acid is usually well tolerated, but some people may have side effects, such as stomach disorder, nausea or allergic reactions.
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Collagen:
- Chemical structure and sources: Collagen is the main structural protein in the human body, which forms the basis of connective tissue, including cartilage, bones, ligaments and tendons. There are several types of collagen, but type II collagen is the main type contained in cartilage. In dietary supplements, collagen is usually obtained from leather, bones and cartilage (cattle, pigs, chickens) or fish.
- The mechanism of action: When administering inside, collagen is split into peptides and amino acids, which can stimulate the synthesis of a new collagen in cartilage. Some studies show that collagen intake can reduce joint pain, improve their mobility and slow down the progression of osteoarthritis.
- Types of collagen (type I, type II, type III): For joint health, the most important collagen type II, which is the main component of cartilage fabric. Type I collagen is found in the skin, bones and tendons, and type III collagen in the skin, muscles and blood vessels.
- Hydrolyzed collagen: Hydrolyzed collagen is a collagen that was split into smaller peptides, which facilitates its absorption in the intestines. It is believed that a hydrolyzed collagen has greater bioavailability than a non -hydrolyzed collagen.
- Dosage: The recommended daily dose of collagen is 5-10 grams.
- Potential side effects: Collagen is usually well tolerated, but some people may have side effects, such as stomach disorder, nausea or allergic reactions.
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Curcumin:
- Chemical structure and sources: Kurkumin is an active ingredient in turmeric, spices widely used in Indian cuisine and traditional medicine. It has powerful anti -inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- The mechanism of action: Kurkumin inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COO-2) and lipoxigenase (log), which are involved in the development of inflammation. It can also inhibit the activity of the Kappep nuclear factor B (NF-q), the key regulator of inflammatory processes. Due to its antioxidant properties, Kurkumin protects the cells from damage to free radicals.
- Bioavailability of curcumin and ways to increase it: Kurkumin has low bioavailability, as it is poorly absorbed in the intestines and quickly metabolized in the liver. To increase the bioavailability of curcumin, it is often combined with piperin, alkaloid contained in black pepper, which inhibits turcumumine metabolism in the liver. Other methods of increasing the bioavailability of curcumin include the use of liposomal forms, nanoparticles and compounds with phospholipids.
- Dosage: The recommended daily dose of curcumin is 500-2000 mg, usually divided into several techniques.
- Potential side effects: Kurkumin is usually well tolerated, but some people may have side effects, such as stomach disorder, nausea or diarrhea. People taking anticoagulants (thinning blood) should be careful when taking curcumin, since it can enhance their effect.
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The Boswelli Serra:
- Chemical structure and sources: Boswellion Serrat is a plant that grows in India and in the Middle East, from the resin of which they receive an extract used in traditional medicine. The active components of the Boswellia are bosvelic acids with anti -inflammatory properties.
- The mechanism of action: Bosvevel acids inhibit the 5-lipoxygenase enzyme (5-log), which is involved in the synthesis of leukotrienes, pro-inflammatory mediators. They can also suppress the activity of metalloproteinase (MMP) that destroy cartilage fabric. Boswellia Serrat can have an analgesic effect, reducing joint pain.
- Dosage: The recommended daily dose of Serrat Boswellial extract is 300-500 mg containing 60-65% of bosvelic acids.
- Potential side effects: The Boswellium of Serrat is usually well tolerated, but some people may have side effects, such as stomach disorder, nausea or diarrhea.
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Omega-3 fatty acids:
- Chemical structure and sources: Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids that are necessary for human health. The most important omega-3 fatty acids for the health of the joints are eicosapentaenic acid (EPK) and preshase acid (DGK), which are found in fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardine) and fish oil. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALK) is another omega-3 fatty acid contained in vegetable oils (linseed, chia), but it should be transformed into EPK and DGK in the body, which occurs inefficiently.
- The mechanism of action: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties, inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and prostaglandins. They can also stimulate the production of anti -inflammatory mediators, such as resolvins and protective. Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce joint pain, improve their mobility and slow down the progression of osteoarthritis.
- The ratio of EPK and DGK: It is important to pay attention to the ratio of EPK and DGK in the addition of fish oil. For the health of the joints, a high content of EPC is recommended.
- Dosage: The recommended daily dose of EPK and DGK is 1000-3000 mg.
- Potential side effects: Omega-3 fatty acids are usually well tolerated, but some people may have side effects, such as stomach disorder, nausea, fishing, or blood thinning. People taking anticoagulants (thinning blood) should be careful when taking omega-3 fatty acids.
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Vitamin D:
- Chemical structure and sources: Vitamin D is a fat -soluble vitamin that is necessary for the health of bones and joints. It contributes to the absorption of calcium and phosphorus necessary for the formation and maintenance of bone tissue. Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin under the influence of sunlight, and is also found in some foods (oily fish, egg yolks, enriched products).
- The mechanism of action: Vitamin D regulates the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus, supporting bone health and preventing osteoporosis. The disadvantage of vitamin D can lead to weakening of bones, an increase in the risk of fractures and joint pain. Some studies show that vitamin D may also have anti -inflammatory properties.
- Vitamin D2 vs. Vitamin D3: Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is a more effective form of vitamin D than vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol). Vitamin D3 is synthesized in the skin under the influence of sunlight, and vitamin D2 is found in some fungi.
- Dosage: The recommended daily dose of vitamin D is 600-800 IU (international units). People with vitamin D deficiency may require a higher dose.
- Potential side effects: When taking high doses of vitamin D, side effects can occur, such as nausea, vomiting, weakness and increasing blood calcium levels.
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Vitamin C:
- Chemical structure and sources: Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a water -soluble vitamin necessary for the synthesis of collagen, antioxidant protection and immune function. It is found in fresh fruits and vegetables, especially in citrus fruits, berries and sheet green vegetables.
- The mechanism of action: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage by free radicals formed in the process of inflammation. It is also necessary for the synthesis of collagen, the main structural protein of cartilage, ligaments and tendons. Vitamin C is involved in the regulation of the immune system and can have an anti -inflammatory effect.
- Dosage: The recommended daily dose of vitamin C is 75-90 mg. To maintain joint health and reduce inflammation, a higher dose (500-1000 mg) may be required.
- Potential side effects: Vitamin C is usually well tolerated, but when taking high doses, side effects can occur, such as stomach disorder, diarrhea and the formation of kidney stones.
IB combinations of components and their synergistic effect:
Many dietary supplements for joints contain a combination of several components that can have a synergistic effect, that is, to enhance each other’s effect. For example, a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate is one of the most common and studied combinations. It is believed that glucosamine stimulates the synthesis of cartilage, and chondroitin sulfate provides its hydration and protection against destruction. The combination of glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM can have an even more pronounced anti -inflammatory and chondroprotective effect. Kurkumin is often combined with piperin to increase its bioavailability. Vitamin D and calcium interact to maintain bone health.
II. Analysis of the effectiveness of dietary supplements for joints: Review of clinical research
The effectiveness of dietary supplements for joints is the subject of numerous clinical studies. The results of these studies are often contradictory, which complicates the formation of unambiguous conclusions about their effectiveness. This section presents an overview of the most significant clinical studies devoted to the assessment of the effectiveness of various dietary supplements for the joints in osteoarthritis and other diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
II.A. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate:
Numerous clinical studies were devoted to assessing the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate in osteoarthritis. The results of these studies vary.
- Studies with positive results: Some studies have shown that glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate can reduce joint pain, improve their mobility and slow down the progression of osteoarthritis, especially with moderate and severe forms of the disease. For example, the study of Gait (Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis International Trial), conducted by the National Institute of Health of the USA, showed that the combination of glucose and chondroine sulfate is effective for reducing joint pain in patients with moderate and severe ostearthritis of the knee joint.
- Research with negative results: Other studies have not revealed significant advantages of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate compared to placebo. For example, a large European study of MOves (MultICentre Osteoarthritis Intervents Trial with Sysadoa) did not show the advantages of a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate compared to celloxibia (non -steroidal anti -inflammatory drug) in reducing pain and improving the function of the joints in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee joint.
- Meta analysis: The meta-analyzes that combine the results of several studies also give conflicting results. Some meta-analyzes show that glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate can have a small but statistically significant effect on decreasing pain and improving joint function, while other meta analyzes do not reveal significant advantages compared to placebo.
II.B. MSM:
Some clinical studies have shown that MSM can reduce joint pain and improve their mobility in patients with osteoarthritis. For example, a study published in OsteoartHritis and Cartilage showed that taking MSM for 12 weeks led to a significant decrease in pain and improving the function of joints in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee joint compared to placebo. However, additional research is necessary to confirm these results.
II.C. Hyaluronic acid:
- Hyaluronic acid injections (viscosaptorment): Numerous clinical studies have shown that hyaluronic acid injections in the joint can reduce the pain and improve the function of the joints in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee joint. The effect of hyaluronic acid injections is usually preserved for several months.
- Anti -oral intake of hyaluronic acid: Clinical studies of the oral administration of hyaluronic acid gave less convincing results. Some studies have shown that the oral intake of hyaluronic acid can reduce joint pain and improve their function, but other studies have not revealed significant advantages compared to placebo. Additional studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of the oral administration of hyaluronic acid in osteoarthritis.
II.D. Collagen:
Some clinical studies have shown that collagen intake can reduce joint pain, improve their mobility and slow down the progression of osteoarthritis. For example, a study published in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage showed that taking type II collagen for 6 months led to a significant reduction in pain and improving the joint function in patients with an osteoarthritis of the knee joint compared to placebo. However, additional research is necessary to confirm these results and determine the optimal dose and duration of collagen.
II.e. Kurcumin:
Some clinical studies have shown that turmeric can reduce joint pain and improve their function in patients with osteoarthritis. For example, a meta-analysis published in the journal Journal of Medicinal Food showed that Kurkumin is effective for reducing pain and improving joint function in patients with osteoarthritis compared to placebo. Kurkumin can also be comparable in terms of effectiveness with non -steroidal anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in reducing pain in osteoarthritis. However, due to the low bioavailability of curcumin, it is necessary to use special forms or combinations with piperin to achieve the optimal effect.
II.F. Boswellia serrate:
Some clinical studies have shown that Serrat’s Boswellial extract can reduce joint pain and improve their mobility in patients with osteoarthritis. For example, a study published in the journal Phytomedicine showed that taking an extract of Boswellion of Serrat within 8 weeks led to a significant decrease in pain and improving joint function in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee joint compared to placebo. Boswellia Serrat can also improve the blood supply to the joints and reduce inflammation.
II.G. Omega-3 fatty acids:
Some clinical studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce joint pain and improve their function in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. For example, meta-analysis published in Pain magazine showed that omega-3 fatty acids are effective for reducing pain with rheumatoid arthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids can also reduce joint stiffness and improve the general condition of patients with arthritis.
II.H. Vitamin D:
Clinical studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency can be associated with an increased risk of development of osteoarthritis and joint pain. Vitamin D intake can reduce joint pain and improve muscle function in patients with vitamin D deficiency. However, additional studies are necessary to determine the optimal dose of vitamin D for the prevention and treatment of osteoarthritis.
II.I. Combined additives:
Many dietary supplements for joints contain a combination of several components. Some clinical studies have shown that combined additives can be more effective than individual components to reduce joint pain and improve their function. For example, a combination of glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM can have a more pronounced anti -inflammatory and chondroprotective effect than individual components.
III. Comparison of specific dietary supplements for the joints presented on the market
The market presents a huge number of dietary supplements for joints that differ in composition, dosage and form of release. This section presents a comparison of several popular dietary supplements for the joints available on the market, with an emphasis on their composition and the estimated efficiency.
III.a. Bad №1: “Artra”
- Composition: Glucosamine hydrochloride (500 mg), chondroitin sodium sulfate (500 mg).
- Output form: Tablets.
- Manufacturer: Unipharm, Inc. (USA)
- Indications: Osteoarthrosis of the peripheral joints and spine.
- Estimated efficiency: The combination of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate can help restore cartilage tissue, reduce pain and improve joint function. However, as noted earlier, clinical studies provide conflicting results regarding the effectiveness of this combination.
- Peculiarities: Contains moderate doses of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. The form of glucosamine is hydrochloride, which can have less bioavailability compared to sulfate.
III.B. BAD No2: “Teraflex”
- Composition: Glucosamine hydrochloride (500 mg), chondroitin sodium sulfate (400 mg).
- Output form: Capsules.
- Manufacturer: Bayer Consumer Care AG (Switzerland)
- Indications: Osteoarthrosis of the peripheral joints and spine.
- Estimated efficiency: Similar to the dietary supplement “arthra”.
- Peculiarities: The composition is similar to the “arthra” dietary supplement, but the dose of chondroitin sulfate is slightly lower.
III.C. Bad No. 3: “Doppelgerz Act Glucosamine + Chondroitin”
- Composition: Glucosamine sulfate (750 mg), chondroitin sulfate (200 mg), vitamin C (20 mg), vitamin E (3 mg), zinc (2 mg), manganese (1 mg), selenium (10 μg).
- Output form: Capsules.
- Manufacturer: Queisser Pharma GmbH & Co. Kg (Germany)
- Indications: An additional source of glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, vitamins and minerals.
- Estimated efficiency: Contains glucosamine sulfate, which is considered a more bio -access form of glucosamine. Additional vitamins and minerals can have an antioxidant and anti -inflammatory effect. However, the dose of chondroitin sulfate is relatively low.
- Peculiarities: Contains a wide range of vitamins and minerals that can maintain joint health.
III.D. BAD No4: “Solgar Glucosamin Hondroitin Complex”
- Composition: Glucosamine hydrochloride (750 mg), chondroitin sulfate (600 mg), MSM (333 mg).
- Output form: Tablets.
- Manufacturer: Solgar, Inc. (USA)
- Indications: Additional source of glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate and MSM.
- Estimated efficiency: It contains a combination of glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM, which can have a synergistic effect. MSM can increase the anti -inflammatory effect of glucosamine and chondroitin.
- Peculiarities: Contains high doses of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, as well as MSM.
III.E. Bad # 5: “Animal Flex”
- Composition: (Multicomponent, consists of several complexes):
- Complex for building cartilaginous tissue: glucosamine hydrochloride, MSM, chondroitin sulfate a, chondroitin sulfate S.
- Complex for lubricating the joints: linseed oil (source of alpha-linoleic acid), hyaluronic acid.
- Support complex: ginger root extract, turmeric extract, Boswellia Serrat, quercetin.
- Vitamin-mineral complex.
- Output form: Packets with capsules and pills.
- Manufacturer: Universal Nutrition (USA)
- Indications: Support for joints of joints in athletes and people leading an active lifestyle.
- Estimated efficiency: It contains a wide range of components aimed at maintaining the health of the joints, including building blocks of cartilage, joint lubrication, anti -inflammatory substances and vitamins/minerals.
- Peculiarities: A comprehensive composition intended for athletes and people experiencing increased joint loads. Contains plant extracts with anti -inflammatory effects.
III.F. БАД №6: “Move Free Advanced”
- Composition: Glucosamine hydrochloride (1,500 mg), chondroitin sulfate (200 mg), calcium fruits (5 mg), hyaluronic acid (3.3 mg).
- Output form: Tablets.
- Manufacturer: Schiff Nutrition International, Inc. (США)
- Indications: Support for joint health.
- Estimated efficiency: High dose of glucosamine. Contains hyaluronic acid and calcium fruits, which can have an additional anti -inflammatory and chondroprotective effect.
- Peculiarities: High dose of glucosamine, low dose of chondroitin sulfate. Contains calcium fruits, which is claimed to improve joint comfort.
IV. Factors affecting the effectiveness of dietary supplements for joints
The efficiency of dietary supplements for joints can depend on many factors, including:
- The severity of the disease: Bades can be more effective in moderate forms of osteoarthritis than in severe forms.
- Individual characteristics of the body: The effectiveness of dietary supplements can vary depending on the individual characteristics of the body, such as age, weight, genetic predisposition and the presence of concomitant diseases.
- Composition and dosage of dietary supplement: It is important to choose dietary supplements with the optimal composition and dosage of components.
- Duration of dietary supplement: To achieve the effect of taking ba