Supplements. Which can help for Joint Cartilage repair?
Supplements. Which can help for Joint Cartilage repair?
The reconstruction of joint cartilage is the Holy Grail of joint arthritis repair. As discussed in earlier articles the predominant feature of osteoarthritis is the breakdown of the cartilage joint lining so anything that can help keep cartilage or rebuild it is an advantage to long term joint wellbeing. There is much unknown about the effectiveness of any supplements in such joint repair. However, it is thought that the following can have some effect on rebuilding joint cartilage include:
1. Glucosamine & Chondroitin
Supplements and joint cartilage injury
🦴 Glucosamine & Chondroitin
- Effectiveness: These are among the most well-researched supplements for joint health, particularly for conditions like osteoarthritis. Initially, hailed as game changing, the evidence is now suggesting that their association with cartilage repair is weak though safe to use. Arthritis Australia 2023 Some people report excellent results though a placebo effect cannot be discounted.
- Mechanism: Glucosamine is a building block for cartilage, and chondroitin helps maintain cartilage structure and elasticity.
2. Collagen
✨ Collagen
- Effectiveness: Collagen supplements are increasingly popular for supporting joint health and rebuilding cartilage. Khatri et al, 2021 found that collagen supplementation in conjunction with exercise can be beneficial in degenerative joint disorders.
- Mechanism: Collagen provides the necessary amino acids that are crucial for the repair and regeneration of cartilage tissue. It also stimulates the production of cartilage matrix, improving structure and load-bearing capabilities. Crowe 2023
- Recommendation: 5 to 15 grams/day in conjunction with prescribed exercise.
3. MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)
🌿 MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)
- Effectiveness: MSM is known for its ability to support joint health and may aid in cartilage repair. Carbonare et al, 2021 found MSM helps counteract cartilage degeneration associated with osteoarthritis by stimulating mesenchymal stem cells to produce cartilage cells.
- Mechanism: MSM provides sulfur, which is a vital component in the formation of collagen and glucosamine, thereby supporting cartilage repair and joint flexibility. Additionally the authors found MSM to be chondrogenic, a fancy word for the production of cartilage cells. This is desirable since degeneration means we lose more cells than we make. MSM helps make more.
These three supplements are particularly noted for their potential in supporting the rebuilding and maintenance of joint cartilage. Results vary from person to person due to the complexity of individual injury type and lifestyle. All have good safety records so they may be worth a try even if you do not get any positive outcome due to no known downside effects.
As always, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially for conditions that affect joint health.
