Joint Support Supplements – Do Your Research
In recent years, many joint support supplements recommended by physicians for years have come under fire for not producing the results many expected. In 2006 and 2007, the National Institutes of Health conducted well designed studies on common joint support supplements glucosamine hydrochloride, glucosamine sulfate, and chondroitin. These joint support supplements have been recommended by doctors to treat arthritis pain, reduce inflammation, and slow the progression of cartilage destruction. Unfortunately, the results of those Joint Support Supplements studied showed chondroitin to be virtually useless in that regard. Minimal results were seen from glucosamine sulfate, and virtually no results seen with glucosamine hydrochloride.
These studies were primarily focused on pain relief and slowing the progression of arthritic deterioration, rather than joint support supplements for those with healthy joints. In that regard, it is possible that glucosamine and chondroitin may still hold good potential as joint support supplements. However, ConsumerLabs warns that in a study they conducted in 2008, two out of two chondroitin only products did not contain the concentration of chondroitin promised in those Joint Support Supplements. Likewise, six out of 13 combination joint support supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin also lacked the promised concentration of chondroitin.
With these studies and figures in mind, consumers would be wise to carefully consider the joint support supplements they purchase. Do your research before deciding on a particular brand of joint support supplements or a particular ingredient. You may find that what you read in the marketing material for some joint support supplements does not match up to published studies and consumer watchdog group information. Arthritis care and treatment is a multi-billion dollar per year industry, and companies that manufacture joint support supplements are seeking to cash in on the broad market for prevention and treatment of associated arthritis causes and symptoms.
Do not simply believe everything you hear about Joint Support Supplements. Take the time to find out on your own, ask the advice of your physician or other trusted healthcare professional. Your pharmacist is also a great source of information on joint support supplements, just as he or she is a great source of information on medications and treatments for arthritis. Before ordering or buying joint support supplements, ask their advice as they can help steer you towards reputable brands that contain the compounds in the concentrations promised on their labels. Likewise, they may be able to recommend additional ideas for natural joint support supplements such as foods to eat or avoid or herbal remedies to add to your regimen.
