Our vegan Glucosamin Complex: A joint supplement, without joints

Joint health is one of those things people become more and more concerned about when reaching a certain age. But that may actually be too late. When symptoms kick in, a lot of damage could already be evident in knees, shoulders, and other parts of the body where two bones are connected. Thus, taking preventative measures before reaching this stage is crucial for living a painless and flexible life as an elderly.

When we look at the anatomy and physiology of joints, two particular elements stand out: Glucosamine and chondroitin. These two substances are naturally present in connective tissues like cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and the synovial fluid – which basically constitute the entire set-up of our joints. Glucosamine is a so-called amino sugar. It is especially relevant for keeping the cartilage flexible [1]. Without enough of this tough and rubbery connective tissue cushioning the joints, the ends of our bones would rub against each other, leading to a painful condition called osteoarthritis. Chondroitin is a large molecule and another important structural component of cartilage that provides resistance to compression. It also delivers nutrients to the joints, stimulates the formation of new joint cartilage, and thereby prevents its degradation.

For athletes and other people who are prone to the wear and tear of certain joint structures, a joint-supporting supplement might be helpful to prevent lasting pain and irreversible damage. Studies have shown that the combination of glucosamine and chondroitin is indeed effective in the management of osteoarthritis [2] and cartilage degradation in general [3, 4].

Our cruelty-free alternative

But let’s not get too excited because there is actually a downside to such kind of supplements: Being principal components of cartilage, glucosamine and chondroitin are typically obtained from animal waste. While chondroitin is extracted from cartilaginous cow, pig, fish, or shark tissues, glucosamine is usually derived from the carapace of crustaceans such as crabs, lobsters, and shrimps. Conventional glucosamine products are therefore a big problem for people with shellfish allergies and pose a risk for severe and life-threatening allergic reactions.

Most of the manufacturers of such animal-based supplements chemically process the animal by-products to purify the desired ingredients and remove possible toxic residues. However, not uncommonly, products are still tested positive for certain contaminants. Moreover, unnecessary, and sometimes questionable artificial additives frequently find their way into joint tablets and capsules. So why take the risk when there is actually a cruelty-free, safer, plant-based alternative?

In respect not only to our values, but also to the animals and our environment, we have developed a completely vegan product: our Glucosamin Complex. For our joints product we use the unique, patented raw material named Mythocondro®, the first chondroitin sulphate of non-animal origin. It is produced by an innovative production method that is based on the natural biosynthesis from a specific, non-GMO bacterial strain – so essentially a natural fermentation process. Structurally the non-animal chondroitin is very similar to the counterpart found in our body and, due to its low molecular weight, can be easily absorbed. In fact, clinical trials could show that Mythocondro® had a 43% higher bioavailability than traditional bovine chondroitin [4]. Our glucosamine is also obtained from natural fermentation and is similarly characterized a higher bioavailability compared to glucosamine from animal sources. So, no need to worry about shellfish contamination!

To make our product even better and more effective, we added a few other high-quality ingredients that can support the synergistic effect of glucosamine and chondroitin. Specifically, we decided to enhance our product with highly pure methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), a popular substance that is well known for its benefits with regards to joint health [5]. A rather unfamiliar ingredient with a dangerous name is the devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens). Luckily, the name is only attributed to the peculiar appearance of the plant and not its effects. It was in fact shown to be quite helpful in reducing joint inflammation and joint pain in patients suffering from rheumatic and arthritic disorders [6]. Finally, our supplement is completed with natural vitamin C from Acerola and the mineral zinc, which are both relevant for proper cartilage and bone function.

It’s a matter of lifestyle

Our Glucosamin Complex with vegan glucosamine and chondroitin provides a helpful tool to contribute to the health of our joints. However, we should always keep in mind that supplements are not “miracle pills” that make all our sufferings disappear, even when the effectiveness of the individual ingredients is backed by science. Our joint supplement is literally just that: a supplement. It is not a substitute for a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle which are actually the greatest influencers when it comes to joint health (and health in general). A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods – namely fruits and vegetables – plus regular physical activity build the foundation for keeping our knees and elbows flexible and ache-free into old age.

Sources
[1] Bissett DL. Glucosamine: an ingredient with skin and other benefits. J Cosmet Dermatol. (2006)
[2] Hungerford DS, Jones LC. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are effective in the management of osteoarthritis. J Arthroplasty. (2003)
[3] Nagaoka I, Tsuruta A, Yoshimura M. Chondroprotective action of glucosamine, a chitosan monomer, on the joint health of athletes. Int J Biol Macromol. (2019)
[4] Volpi et al., Oral bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of non-animal chondroitin sulfate and its constituents in healthy male volunteers. Clin Pharmacol Drug Dev. (2018)
[5] Brien et al., Systematic review of the nutritional supplements dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. (2008)
[6] Wegener and Lüpke, Treatment of Patients with arthrosis of hip or knee with an aqueous extract of devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens DC.). Phytother Res. (2003)