Condrohelp CAPS

The components of joints provide stability and decrease the risk of injuries that may result from their constant use:

• Cartilage: is a smooth, tough, and elastic protective tissue composed of collagen, water, and proteoglycans (i.e., chondroitin and glucosamine) that reduces friction by the movement of the joints.
• Synovial membrane: is a lining of the joint that, in turn, forms the articular capsule. It secretes synovial fluid (a clear and sticky fluid) around the joint to lubricate it.
• Cells: produce a small amount of clear fluid (synovial fluid) that nourishes the cartilage and further reduces friction, facilitating movement.
• Connective Tissues: around the joint, there are tough ligaments that provide support and harmony to mobility, and tendons which at each side of the joint connect to muscles to control the movement of that joint.
• Bursae: are fluid-filled cavities between bones, ligaments, and other adjacent structures that help cushion the joint's friction.

How to maintain joints and alleviate joint discomfort?

The joints, located at the ends of bones (knees, arms, and shoulders), have a space that allows a wide range of movements, due to an endochondral ossification and reinforced by a dense fibrous capsule that is strengthened with ligaments and muscles. This capsule is sensitive to changes that occur from the age of 35, where our body begins to lose lean body mass and gain fat mass due to aging, as well as lifestyle factors related to sedentary behaviour and diet.

Body weight is one of the factors we can modify and it is effective for joint maintenance, so diet is crucial and directly linked to joint health. Avoiding weight gain and maintaining the body's lean muscle by balancing calorie intake with energy output, while ensuring an adequate amount of proteins, is sound advice for general health and mobility.

A diet that includes sources of Omega 3 and 6, antioxidants such as vitamin C, E and selenium, proteins (collagen and protein hydrolysates), calcium, zinc and vitamin D, is chosen for the maintenance and relief of joint discomfort. Foods such as fruits, vegetables, cereals, seeds, dairy, fish, and lean meats, are good sources for achieving good joint health.

Likewise, you can supplement your diet with dietary supplements containing glucosamine+chondroitin, which are active ingredients naturally found in our joint tissues, and can help to maintain the functionality of the articular cartilage.

It is also worth remembering that well-directed physical exercise is another tool at our disposal to keep our joints "well-oiled", in addition to contributing to our overall wellbeing.