Top 3 Strategies to Support Bones and Joints
If you’re looking for natural bone and joint supplements that are supported by strong scientific research, look no further than these three:
- Eggshell membrane
- Glucosamine chondroitin sulfate in combination
- Omega 3s
Omega-3 essential fatty acids support bones and joints from a foundational standpoint, as well as from a structural perspective. Omega-3s support bone and joint function through a variety of complex pathways and mechanisms of action.
The research associated with the use of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to support joint health is extensive with most of the studies showing positive results. Glucosamine and chondroitin are glycosaminoglycans, which are major components of joint cartilage. It appears as though the combination of the two—glucosamine and chondroitin—may provide the most benefit to patients who are looking for additional joint support.
Eggshell membrane is found between the calcified shell and albumin of a chicken egg. This mesh-like structure contains bioactive compounds including hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, and other glycosaminoglycans. Eggshell membrane has been shown to support healthy inflammation in joints, as well as joint and bone structure.
There are a number of over-the-counter and prescription drugs available for bone and joint issues. Here is a list of drug categories along with potential side effects provided by the Arthritis Foundation:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) = edema, heartburn, stomach upset and stomach ulcers, as
well as possible risk of blood clots, heart attack and stroke. - Corticosteroids = cataracts, elevated blood fat and blood sugar levels, increased appetite and bone loss.
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) = stomach upset and increased susceptibility to infection.
- Biologic agents = injection site reactions, infusion reactions, and increased risk of serious infections.
Chronic, long-term use of these drugs can also cause additional safety concerns.
There are many natural substances on the market today that support bone and joint health. These three—eggshell membrane, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, and omega-3s—should certainly be featured at the top of the list. In addition to being effective as illustrated by the scientific literature, the safety profile of these natural substances is excellent, even with long-term use.
Selected References
Hochberg MC, Martel-Pelletier J, Monfort J, et al. Combined chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine for painful knee osteoarthritis: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, non-inferiority trial versus celecoxib. Ann Rheum Dis. 2016;75(1):37-44.
Kajarabille N, Diaz-Castro J, Hijano S, et al. A new insight to bone turnover: role of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. The Scientific World Journal. 2013;2013.
Ruff KJ, Morrison D, Duncan SA, et al. Beneficial effects of natural eggshell membrane versus placebo in exercise-induced joint pain, stiffness, and cartilage turnover in healthy, postmenopausal women. Clinical Interventions in Aging. 2018;2018(13):285-295.
