Life Extension Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM with Ester-C, 180 tablets

Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM with Ester-C by Solgar is a combination of four nutrients that play a role in joint health. Benefits at a Glance: Supports joint health Supports a healthy level of inflammation Helps maintain joint comfort Glucosamine is a sugar found in cartilage, the substance that composes our joints. Glucosamine is used in the construction of glycosaminoglycans that help cushion the joints. Glucosamine also inhibits cartilage-damaging enzymes.1 The synthesis of glucosamine by the body’s chondrocytes may become deficient as we age. A meta-analysis of 18 randomized trials that evaluated the effects of glucosamine on knee osteoarthritis concluded that glucosamine is superior to a placebo to alleviate symptoms.2 Chondroitin sulfate is a glycosaminoglycan occurring in cartilage.3 It helps maintaining structural integrity and slows cartilage breakdown. A meta-analysis of 43 randomized trials involving patients with osteoarthritis that included a total of 4,962 participants treated with chondroitin and 4,148 control participants determined that chondroitin was associated with better pain relief than a placebo in short term studies.4 Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a naturally occurring compound that is a sulfur donor. Because sulfur levels in the cartilage of people with arthritis are approximately one-third of levels occurring in those without the condition, MSM may be useful for this group of patients.5 Methylsulfonylmethane also helps support normal levels of inflammation.6 Ester-C is a form of vitamin C known as calcium ascorbate. When bound to minerals, the natural acidity of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) becomes neutralized, making it less likely to irritate the digestive tract. Vitamin C plays a role in the synthesis of collagen that makes up cartilage.7 In a randomized, double-blind trial, calcium ascorbate was superior to a placebo in the relief of pain in individuals with osteoarthritis of the hip or knee.8 Together, these ingredients help support and maintain healthy joints.