What to choose for joints and cartilage regeneration?

Cartilage plays a very important role in the body. Among other things, it is one of the links in the musculoskeletal system and participates in connecting individual elements of the skeletal system. This function, in turn, is associated with a number of health benefits attributed to physical activity in the broad sense. In certain physiological conditions, cartilage degeneration may occur, leading to disorders in the structure and functionality of the joints.

1. Cartilage degeneration
2. Cartilage regeneration
3. Choosing a joint supplement

An appropriate diet and supply of selected compounds can significantly support the condition of cartilage tissues, even though they are not vascularised and nourished in the same way as, for example, bones.

Cartilage degeneration

One of the diseases resulting from progressive cellular disorders within cartilage is osteoarthritis, which can both reduce joint mobility and cause pain and discomfort. Cartilage damage requiring a focus on regeneration processes may result from mechanical damage or nutritional deficiencies, but also from certain genetic disorders.

Degeneration is more commonly observed in people with an unbalanced ratio of physical activity duration and intensity to regeneration duration and quality, as well as in older people or those who are malnourished and physically inactive.

Cartilage regeneration

Cartilage nutrition depends on subjecting it to pressure changes and loading it with appropriately selected activity. In addition, it requires a supply of numerous compounds with both protective and regenerative effects. The most important elements obtained from the diet in this context include: vitamin C, vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, selenium, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), collagen proteins (which mainly consist of the amino acids glycine, proline and hydroxyproline), as well as compounds from the glycosaminoglycan group (e.g. chondroitin, glucosamine, hyaluronic acid). 

In addition, omega-3 fatty acids and plant extracts (e.g. from ginger, frankincense and hemp) are also considered valuable in this context. Diet can be an effective tool in supporting cartilage and joints, but comprehensive dietary supplements are often a useful aid. They provide high doses and easily absorbable chemical forms that are not always easy to obtain from food.

The activity of these compounds manifests itself in structural support for the joints, regulation of the ‘lubrication’ of numerous surfaces within them, as well as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Choosing a joint supplement

A supplement containing compounds that strengthen joints and cartilage should be tailored to the individual user. Depending on age, level of physical activity, health status, past injuries, and nutritional status, needs may vary slightly. Multi-ingredient products are often very valuable aids because they contain compounds with a well-known role in joint and musculoskeletal health. These compounds are also considered safe and well tolerated by the general population. These preparations can be quickly prepared and taken with you almost anywhere.

Sources:

Castrogiovanni P, Trovato FM, Loreto C, Nsir H, Szychlinska MA, Musumeci G. Nutraceutical Supplements in the Management and Prevention of Osteoarthritis. Int J Mol Sci. 2016 Dec 6;17(12):2042. doi: 10.3390/ijms17122042. PMID: 27929434; PMCID: PMC5187842.