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Joint Health
Over the past several decades, important research has emerged regarding joint structure and natural supplements shown to enhance joint health, with Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM, Hyaluronic Acid, Silica, Yucca and Devils Claw showing the most significance. What are these nutrients, and how do they perform in the body? The following information will provide you with the tools you need to make educated choices when it comes to addressing joint issues your horse may already have or develop in the future.
To maintain healthy cartilage, water is necessary for lubrication, proteoglycans to attract and hold water, collagen to hold proteoglycans in place and chondrocytes to continually rebuild new cartilage tissue. Adequate nutrition (protein, fat, vitamins and minerals) is also required to ensure production of these bioactive substances. Proteoglycans organize collagen and water binding to give cartilage its desired flexibility, resiliency and resistance.
The most notable of all the joint nutraceuticals is Glucosamine, the key building block for tissue integrity. Virtually every study shows that glucosamine supplementation provides symptomatic relief for pain pain, stimulates more rapid recovery, and at the very least, partially restores joint function.
The preferable form of glucosamine is hydrochloride. Both forms (hydrochloride and sulfate) of glucosamine in pure form deliver equally effective amounts of glucosamine. The advantage of the hydrochloride form is that it contains approximately 25 - 30% more pure glucosamine for considerably less cost.
Chondroitin Sulfate is the primary substance found in cartilage. Its key functions include the ability to inhibit enzymes that degrade cartilage tissue, water retention for synovial fluid production and the ability to utilize glucosamine in the formation of proteoglycans. Chondroitin sulfate is important in forming the matrix of collagen assembly for a tight network (cartilage) with an affinity for water. Chondroitin sulfate has shown the ability to activate chondrocytes, which produce new collagen.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a methylated sulfur bearing compound found naturally in food and throughout the body. A bio-available source of sulfur, MSM is important for connective tissue production and repair. MSM use has also shown a reduction in cartilage breakdown exposed by protecting the cartilage tissue.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a long chain polysaccharide, and is an important component in the intercellular matrix, as it is found throughout the body with the highest concentration in soft connective tissue. HA gives elasticity to the joints and retains water in the cellular matrix. It is important for tissue hydration, lubrication, and proper cellular function.
There are also many herbs/botanical extracts that have shown great promise in supporting joint health. Yucca Schidigera Extract, Devils Claw Extract, Boswellia Serrata Extract, Turmeric Extract, Cat's Claw, Fever Few, White Willow and Cayenne are all examples of a powerful group of joint supporting plants.
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