Tag Archives: Joint Health

Emerald – Featured Brand

EmeraldSusan Brown Health and Wellness Editor

Professional Supplement Center now offers Emerald™, a line of additive-free, physician- formulated, condition-specific supplements. Clinically tested Emerald™ formulations are designed by Dr. Mark Stengler, a well-known author, lecturer, and licensed naturopathic medical physician. For over two decades, Dr. Stengler’s passion has been to combine the best of conventional and natural medicines to achieve optimized health for patients in his health practice. Based on clinical research and actual patient results, Emerald™ formulas utilize therapeutic dosages of synergistic ingredients with a strong emphasis on disease prevention and wellness support. All raw materials are assayed for identity, strength, composition and purity. Products are additive-free to promote quick uptake of the nutrients and aid absorption at the cellular level. Their whole-food proprietary blends provide broad-based nutrients, including plant-based enzymes, prebiotics, and rich probiotic blends in support of overall health and function.

To see the full line of products from Emerald™, please visit professionalsupplementcenter.com

Liver HealthLiver Health: This product provides therapeutic dosages of synergistic nutrients shown to support overall liver health, as well as all major pathways of liver detoxification. Ingredients include extracts of European milk thistle, Meriva® turmeric root, and artichoke, as well as a raw, whole-food proprietary blend. Free of milk, soy, salt, sugar, wheat, yeast, gluten, artificial flavors and preservatives. Vegan formulation.

Adrenal HealthAdrenal Health: This formula provides therapeutic dosages of a synergistic blend of activated B vitamins, botanical extracts, adaptogens and royal jelly, as well as a whole food proprietary blend of superfoods, probiotics and plant-based enzymes. These specific nutrients have been shown to improve energy levels, inhibit fatigue, and promote mental clarity. Free of milk, soy, salt, sugar, wheat, yeast, gluten, artificial flavors and preservatives. Vegetarian formulation.

Cholesterol HealthCholesterol Health: This clinically potent formula provides therapeutic dosages of nutrients shown to help improve HDL and overall cholesterol ratios. Ingredients include flush-free niacin, fermented CoQ10, chelated chromium, and RYR-VA™ red yeast rice, as well as a raw whole- food proprietary blend. Free of milk, soy, salt, sugar, wheat, yeast, gluten, artificial flavors and preservatives. Vegan formulation.

Blood Sugar HealthBlood Sugar Health: Blood Sugar Health provides therapeutic dosages of synergistic nutrients, including water-soluble Cinnulin® cinnamon bark extract, gymnema sylvestre, chromium and alpha lipoic acid. These ingredients been shown to aid  glucose and carbohydrate balance, as well as minimize sugar cravings. Free of milk, soy, salt, sugar, wheat, yeast, gluten, artificial flavors and preservatives. Vegan formulation.

Joint HealthJoint Health: Joint Health provides therapeutic dosages of nutrients shown to reduce stiffness and support joint mobility, connective tissues and healthy cartilage. Clinically potent ingredients include Meriva® turmeric root extract, collagen, OptiMSM® and glucosamine sulfate, as well as a raw whole-food proprietary blend. Free of milk, soy, salt, sugar, wheat, yeast, gluten, artificial flavors and preservatives.

Let’s Discuss Collagen

CollagenJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

 

 

Collagen is the body’s most abundant protein, comprising approximately 30% of overall protein content, and 70% of the protein found in the skin. As the major fibrous protein of connective tissues, collagen is found in bones, muscles, skin, ligaments, tendons, blood vessels and the digestive system, as well as the extracellular matrix, an intricate network of macromolecules that determines the physical properties of body tissues. Without its strength and elasticity our bodies might literally fall apart, as collagen proteins form long chains that provide the structure that holds the body together. Although 16 types of collagen have been identified, the majority of collagen in the body consists of types I, II, and III, all of which support the health and function of tendons, ligaments, muscles, and cartilage and help the tissues to stretch and absorb shock.

Largely composed of the amino acids glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, collagen allows our tendons and ligaments to move with ease. It works synergistically with keratin to provide the skin with strength, smoothness, elasticity, and resilience. While some of us may think of collagen in terms of its effects on skin health, type I collagen fibrils have enormous tensile strength, such that it can be stretched without breaking. Collagen fibers found in tendons, where they connect muscles with bone, must be able to withstand immense forces. Per the National Institutes of health (NIH), gram for gram, type I collagen is stronger than steel. Type II, the major collagen of cartilage, allows joints to absorb shocks.

Collagen is manufactured by specialized cells known as fibroblasts. Once secreted, collagen strands undergo binding, twisting, cross-linking, folding, and layering to produce the final product. As the enzymes that aid these conversions require vitamin C as a cofactor, a deficiency in vitamin C will inhibit collagen synthesis. As well, genetic defects, nutritional deficiencies and digestive issues can also affect collagen production. Over time, the natural creation of collagen begins to wane, and collagen fibers break down or no longer regenerate. Signs of degeneration include facial lines and wrinkles, as well as joint pain and stiffness. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, excess sugar consumption, and high amounts of sun exposure may also contribute to depleting collagen levels. Supplementation with high quality, bioavailable collagen peptides may support bone strength, joint flexibility, skin suppleness, and intestinal health.

Skin, hair and nail health: Collagen aids skin cell renewal and repair. Controlled studies have shown that collagen hydrolysate (peptides) improved skin elasticity, dryness, roughness and texture. Healthy hair and nail growth require collagen as well as keratin and minerals. Dietary collagen works from within to naturally enhance the skin, hair and nails by promoting the collagen formation that supports the skin’s moisture, helps to strengthen nails and adds volume to hair.

Joint health: Collagen loss can lead to joint pain, stiffness and swelling. Studies published in the International Journal of Medical Sciences found that daily supplementation with collagen decreased painful joint swelling and enhanced daily activities, generally improving quality of life for those suffering from joint issues.

Gut health: Amino acids in collagen help to build the connective tissue that lines the colon and the gastrointestinal tract, helping to prevent intestinal permeability or leaky gut. Consuming more collagen may help to soothe and heal the lining of the intestinal tract.

Blood vessel health: Collagen surrounds every blood vessel and protects the vessel from damage. Along with elastin, collagen helps keep the inside of arteries and veins smooth and elastic, allowing the transport of blood, nutrients and oxygen throughout the entire body.

Muscle health: Collagen fibers make up skeletal muscles, as well as smooth muscles found in the bladder, heart, and reproductive system. Collagen fibers provide muscles with the strength and structure necessary for movement and function.

Nutrients that support collagen synthesis include:

  • Foods rich in amino acids, such as beans and soy.
  • Anthocyanidins found red, blue, and purple fruits and vegetables.
  • Fruits and veggies with high vitamin C content, such as oranges, peppers, and broccoli.
  • Foods high in vitamin A, such as dark leafy greens, tropical fruits, oysters, and oily fish.
  • Plant foods that provide beta-carotene, such as sweet potatoes and carrots.
  • Resveratrol and flavonoids from fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants that protect collagen and elastin for skin elasticity. These compounds boost circulation to the tiny blood vessels near the skin’s surface, thereby enhancing the skin’s natural radiance.
  • Hyaluronic acid (HA), found in bone broth, increases skin hydration, stimulates collagen production and improves skin elasticity. Foods that support the natural production of HA include root vegetables, tofu, and tempeh.

Customer favorite collagen products from Vital Proteins® include:

Collagen PeptidesCollagen Peptides: This very popular and easy to use supplement provides 18 g of protein and 20 g of 100% pure collagen peptides per serving in support of strong bones, youthful skin, reduced joint discomfort and restorative sleep. Sourced from bovine hide, this minimally processed, pasture-raised, grass-fed product is flavorless and odorless and mixes easily with cold or warm food or drink. Gluten and dairy free, paleo-friendly, kosher formulation.

Marine CollagenMarine Collagen: This product supplies Non-GMO collagen peptides from verified wild-caught snapper in support of joint and digestive health, as well as youthful skin, healthier hair and stronger nails. Gluten free, Non-GMO, kosher formulation.

Organic Free Range...Organic Free-Range Chicken Bone Broth Collagen: USDA organic chicken bone broth is crafted with bones from free-range chicken that is slowly simmered to extract maximum nutrients. Low sodium, MSG free, and rich in vitamins and minerals, this clean, tasteless, quickly absorbed powder supports digestion, aids immune function and promotes overall wellness. Gluten free.

Collagen Beauty...Collagen Beauty Greens: This nourishing elixir provides Non-GMO Marine Collagen Peptides blended with healthy organic greens, hyaluronic acid, and probiotics in support of collagen formation, increased skin hydration, strengthened hair and nails, and overall wellness. Flavored with organic coconut water and Madagascar vanilla bean, this product provides a full array of amino acids, as well as vitamins, minerals and nutrients. Gluten free, Non-GMO, kosher formulation.

References:
Collagen: The Fibrous Proteins of the Matrix. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK21582/
Amino Acids to Produce Collagen. https://www.livestrong.com/article/428024-amino-acids-to-produce-collagen/
Foods to boost collagen naturally. http://www.naturalhealthnews.uk/article/foods-to-boost-collagen-naturally/

 

Optimize Your Bone and Joint Health

BoneJointHealthJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

 

 

Ideally, to retain mobility, strength and flexibility, the density of the 206 bones that comprise our adult skeletal system should be addressed while we are young. During childhood and adolescence, the skeleton changes in size, shape and position through a process known as bone modeling. Typically, we reach peak bone mass and maximum bone strength by our early twenties, although bones may continue to grow in strength until around age 30. As the skeleton is a metabolically active organ that undergoes continuous remodeling throughout our lifetimes, investing in building bone density during our youth is beneficial, indeed. Though bone nutrition, growth and strength may not be foremost on the minds of young adults, those with high peak bone mass have a reduced risk of developing osteoporosis, a common metabolic bone disease that typically does not manifest until later in life.

Vital to bone health, bone remodeling occurs throughout adult life. This process, constantly occurring in linked succession, consists of bone resorption, in which mature, less resilient bone is removed, and bone formation, where new bone replaces that which has been resorbed. This provides for the maintenance of skeletal integrity and healing of micro-damage or fractures as we grow older. While this may sound simple enough, bone homeostasis is a complicated process that relies on the proper function of many other specialized bodily functions, including calcium and phosphorus regulation and adrenal, sexual and growth hormone functions. After age 34, bone resorption begins to outpace bone formation, leading to an inevitable loss of bone mass with aging.

Osteoporosis is essentially the result of an imbalance in the regulation of bone metabolism. Although we may not hear a lot about osteoporosis affecting men, about 25% of men and 50% of women over age 50 will suffer a bone fracture due to the disease, as loss of bone mass leads to the development of structural abnormalities that make the skeleton more fragile. Gender, race, genetic abnormalities, nutritional deficiencies, insufficient hormone production and chronic inflammation can negatively affect bone density, while weight bearing physical activity especially during peak bone building years, not smoking and limiting alcohol intake, can positively influence bone strength.

No matter your age, gender or fitness level, there’s much you can do to support the health, function and strength of your bones and joints as you age:

Weight bearing exercise for bone health– The skeleton can be greatly influenced by the impact that occurs with physical activity. Any exercise that compresses the bones, such as running, dancing, tennis, jogging, and basketball are great for building and strengthening bones. Strong muscles help support surrounding ligaments and joints, aiding balance and helping to prevent falls. For those who may have osteoporosis or osteopenia, the Cleveland Clinic recommends walking or using an elliptical machine.

Low impact exercise for joint health – Low impact exercise, such as swimming or cycling, helps to maintain weight, reduces pressure on the joints and may reduce joint swelling. A sedentary lifestyle puts you at high risk for joint pain and stiffness. As less movement equates to more stiffness, move about frequently, take breaks, stretch, stand, or go for a short walk.

Stretching –  Weight bearing exercise builds bone mass, while improving posture and balance. Stretching promotes flexibility and joint mobility. Try yoga classes or stretch at any convenient time such as while watching TV in the evenings and especially after exercise.

Reach and maintain a healthy weight – Weight bearing joints, such as knees, hips and back, must support all of your body weight. Carrying excess weight increases wear and tear on your joints. Losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on the joints and helps to prevent injury.

Necessary minerals – The skeleton is a storehouse for calcium and phosphorus, minerals that are essential to the function of all body organs and systems, particularly the bones, nerves and muscles. The skeleton must therefore serve two competing functions—strong bones require ample supplies of calcium and phosphorus, and bones must release these micronutrients to support other vital functions when blood levels drop too low. Inadequate levels of calcium and phosphorus can weaken bones and lead to fractures.

Vitamin D – Calcitriol, a hormone produced in the liver and the kidneys from vitamin D, increases the intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphorus, thereby supplying the minerals for skeletal health. Vitamin D deficiency leads to defective bone mineralization, which can result in bone pain, deformities and fractures. The widespread use of sunscreens and lack of sunlight exposure has led to a global deficiency of the sunshine vitamin. Deficiencies are treatable with vitamin D supplementation and safe sunlight exposure.

Micronutrients important to bone health – Micronutrients play a prominent role in bone health. In addition to calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D, magnesium, sodium, vitamins A, K, C, B6, B12 and folate, all influence skeletal health, as well as performing other essential structural and functional roles in the body.

Overall nutrition – Healthy bones and joints require a range of minerals, proteins, micronutrients and essential fatty acids. Eat a variety of colorful fruits, green leafy vegetables, fatty fish, lean proteins, nuts and seeds to support, build and preserve bone mass.

Limit sugar and caffeine intake – Studies have shown that consuming excessive amounts of sugar and caffeine causes an increased amount of urinary calcium excretion, directly depleting the body of calcium.

Don’t smoke and watch alcohol intake – Loss of bone mineral density is associated with tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption. If you smoke and are having trouble quitting, look into a program or find a professional to help you. Limit alcohol consumption to a maximum of one drink daily for adult women and 2 drinks daily for adult men.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality products formulated for bone and joint health support:

Cal Apatite Bone Builder® Forte by Metagenics®CalApatite Bone Builder Forte® by Metagenics – This product supplies a full spectrum of macro and micro minerals, along with vitamin D and microcrystalline hydroxyapatite concentrate (MCHC). MCHC contains naturally occurring calcium, phosphorus, bioactive bone growth factors and vital bone proteins in support of enhanced bone support and nourishment. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO formulation.

 

Bone Support Formula by Anabolic LaboratoriesBone Support Formula by Anabolic Laboratories – This unique broad spectrum formula provides macro minerals, key vitamins, MCHC and soy isoflavones in support of bone health and metabolism. Gluten and dairy free formulation.

 

Ultimate Bone Builder by Ethical NutrientsUltimate Bone Builder® by Ethical Nutrients – This product supplies calcium-rich MCHC along with additional nutritional factors, including magnesium, phosphorus, ipriflavone and glucosamine sulfate in support of bone density maintenance.  Gluten, soy and dairy free formulation.

 

Bone Strength Tiny Tabs by New ChapterBone Strength Tiny Tabs by New Chapter 15% OFF! – This plant-sourced, highly absorbable formula delivers whole-food calcium, magnesium and 72 additional trace minerals in support of bone nourishment, joint health, flexibility and movement. Gluten free, vegetarian formulation.

 

Bone Support Formula (Formerly Bone Strength™ Formula) by Protocol For Life BalanceBone Support Formula by Protocol for Life Balance – This product supplies comprehensive support for bone and teeth structure with MCHA, vitamins, minerals, botanicals and glucosamine potassium sulfate.  Gluten, soy and dairy free formulation.

 

References:
Bone remodeling. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17308163
Bone Health and Osteoporosis: A Report of the Surgeon General. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK45504/
Osteoporosis: Peak Bone Mass in Women. http://www.niams.nih.gov/health_info/bone/osteoporosis/bone_mass.asp
Micronutrients and Bone Health. http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/micronutrients-health/bone-health
7 Tips for Healthy Bones. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/2013/07/7-tips-for-healthy-bones/