Targeting the source
MOST people believe that their joints will automatically start losing function as they age. However, this belief does not explain why there are many people in their 60s and 70s who are still mobile and flexible, walking as well as any 30-year-old would.
Certain individuals are at higher risk of developing joint problems. Factors include being a female, having a family history of arthritis or having previously sustained a joint injury.
Ever wondered why exercise brings about joint aches and pain when it is supposed to be a healthy activity?
Scientists have found that joint problems are brought about by a biochemical imbalance in the body caused by enzymes that exist in our joints. These joint-degrading enzymes are known as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs).
When MMPs are triggered by high-impact sports, an injury or genetics, joint problems develop faster than average, bringing about inflammation, pain and swelling.
MMPs normally exist in our joints in a balanced state. However, when the body starts producing too much of these enzymes, the joints break down faster than they can be rebuilt.
Joint damage and inflammation ensue, leading to joint pain. Over time, the damage drives the formation of bone spurs, which result in limited joint movement.
The discovery of MMPs was an important step in finding a solution to joint problems. Although drug prototypes against these enzymes have been developed, they produce serious side effects that deter further drug development efforts.
With recent advancements in biotechnology, however, scientists have uncovered a natural substance that is active against MMPs.
Although this product has been around for more than 30 years, its effects could not be verified until recently. A New Zealand green-lipped mussel extract called Biolane is an MMP inhibitor that has been proven to be able to safeguard joints against self-inflicted damage.
Besides having MMP-inhibition properties, Biolane has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to help address the various pathologies indicated in joint problems.
Successfully formulated into a capsule dosage form, Biolane helps to restore troubled joints of the knees, shoulders, neck, back and fingers.
Biolane works differently from glucosamine and other joint supplements in the market. Glucosamine acts as a supply of raw ingredients for joint cells to utilise in repairing damaged cartilage. It does not have any effect on MMPs.
Taking time to heal
Just as joint problems do not develop overnight, the process of joint repair and restoration will take time, especially if the process involves a metabolic rebalancing of joint-ageing enzymes.
Biolane has been clinically tested on patients with 70% success rate. However, patients need to understand that Biolane is not a painkiller and they will need to undergo a treatment course of at least three months at the right dose before seeing any result.
In 2005, the Australian Centre for Complementary Research and Education awarded the Ideal Anti-Arthritic Agent accolade to Biolane. The green-lipped mussel extract is used by medical prescribers in more than 25 countries.
This article is brought to you by the Nuvaceuticals Division of Nuvanta Sdn Bhd.
For more information, call 03-5636 3758/1300 881 712 or e-mail pharmacist@ nuvanta.com