Take anti-inflammatories for short-term relief, glucosamine for long-term repair
Glucosamine sulfate is the granddaddy of supplements for joints. For joint pain, many take aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen. While they're effective at suppressing symptoms, they do nothing for cartilage repair. They may even inhibit it.
While glucosamine has very little direct anti-inflammatory effect and no immediate pain-relieving effect, it gets at the root of the problem and can help repair damaged joints.* One study showed it took supplementing with glucosamine for 4 weeks before it surpassed ibuprofen in pain relief, demonstrating it takes longer to work but ultimately produced better results. Many studies have been conducted with 500 mg taken 3 times daily.
Chondroitin sulfate works synergistically with glucosamine sulfate. Experts say it is best taken with glucosamine in a 5:4 ratio, glucosamine sulfate (1,500 mg): chondroitin sulfate (1,200 mg) for a 120-200 pound person.
Premium Joint Support*
Combines the two most widely studied materials shown to be beneficial for joint health in easy-to-swallow capsules. Scientifically validated formula. Only potassium (2 KCL) stabilized glucosamine is used to reduce unwanted sodium. Take 3 daily.
Three Capsules Contain:
| D-Glucosamine Sulfate 2KCL |
1,500 MG |
| Chondroitin Sulfate |
1,200 MG |
Conclusive research on glucosamine and chondroitin shows it works
Researchers from the Arthritis Center, Boston University School of Medicine, reviewed fifteen human studies on the use of glucosamine and chondroitin for joints. The results showed significant improvement in all patients with joint problems using either material. All of the studies showed them to be extremely safe with almost no side effects. The range of doses was 500 to 1,500 mg of glucosamine and 800 to 1,200 mg of chondroitin daily in the sulfate form. Reliable benefits were found to take 4 to 8 weeks to occur. The most popular daily dose is 1,500 mg glucosamine and 1,200 mg chondroitin.
More evidence shows glucosamine sulfate halts joint degeneration
A recently published study of glucosamine sulfate from the British journal, Lancet , has again confirmed its benefits for joint health. Over 3 years, 212 patients were given a placebo or 1,500 mg of glucosamine sulfate daily. Instead of just measuring the patient's subjective reports of pain or stiffness, the researchers demonstrated measurable, objective evidence of glucosamine's joint benefits. X-rays of the knees were taken at various intervals during the study and showed the expected progression of joint degeneration was halted! X-rays from those taking a placebo showed continued degeneration of the knee joint. There were no side effects or complications noted in the glucosamine group.
Note: this study used the sulfate form of glucosamine used in Lindberg products. The results may not be the same for other forms.
MSM 1,000 MG Supports connective tissue and joints* Each easy-to-swallow capsule contains 1,000 mg (1 gram) of pure MSM. Take 1 capsule 3 times daily.
MSM Powder Each scoop contains 4,000 mg of MSM. Add to any drink. Contains pure MSM, nothing else. Scoop enclosed.
What is MSM?
MSM (Methyl-Sulfonyl-Methane) is a naturally occurring form of dietary sulfur found in fresh foods, but destroyed by moderate processing. In the body, MSM is thought to help build the body's natural barriers against toxins, allergens and parasites. It may help fortify collagen and connective tissue, maintain healthy joints, promote smooth skin, lustrous hair and strong nails.*
Advanced joint support*
Three premier joint support ingredients are combined for maximal effect. Only the highest quality, research-backed materials are used in this easy-to-swallow capsule formula. Take 4 daily.
Four Capsules Contain:
| D-Glucosamine Sulfate 2KCL |
1,500 MG |
| Chondroitin Sulfate |
1,200 MG |
| MSM |
1,000 MG |
82% improvement in those taking MSM
Two studies by measured the effects of MSM in athletes and patients with joint problems.
First, injured athletes taking MSM, in addition to their usual physical therapy, reported improved recovery (58%) versus a placebo group (33%). In addition, athletes using MSM had 40% fewer office visits during treatment.
Second, a double-blind study showed joint patients with joint pain taking 2,250 mg of MSM daily for 6 weeks reported an average 82% improvement, compared to 18% taking placebo.
Don't pay 2.4 times more at the drug store
A big store doesn't always mean big savings! A recent survey showed a national brand of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate sold at a large drugstore chain to be substantially more expensive than our comparable Lindberg product. If you take a typical dose of 3 capsules a day, you would save $18 in just one month by taking the Lindberg brand. Lindberg delivers low prices and high quality every day!
Survey based on Lindberg brand with 500 mg glucosamine sulfate (preferred form) and 400 mg chondroitin sulfate. Comparison national drugstore brand product contained 500 mg glucosamine HCl, 400 mg chondroitin sulfate, 16 mg vitamin C and 3 mg manganese plus artificial colors FD&C red and blue. Survey product available at Walgreens. Survey date August 10, 2009.
Selected Sources
Copyright 2002-2009 Lindberg Nutrition.
Reprinted with permission.
