| Once we reach our late twenties we have less | | | | There is certainly conflicting evidence for their value |
| growth hormone in our bodies. In fact the ageing | | | | coming from scientific studies. |
| process begins (very slowly) at around this time. | | | | Nevertheless some studies do suggest there is more |
| Depending on our lifestyle we may not notice | | | | than just a placebo effect in taking supplements. I have |
| significant wear and tear in our joints. Nevertheless as | | | | certainly seen evidence of this, in particular in the |
| this picture shows, damage is easily caused. | | | | regeneration of cartilage, traditionally believed to be |
| There are 4 main elements in the connective tissue | | | | impossible. If one does take supplements, there are a |
| and cartilage in our bodies. | | | | number of points to consider. |
| - Glucosamine - this is a precursor for the major | | | | At worst, as little as 10% of the supplement may be |
| component of joint cartilage | | | | absorbed by the body. Then there is the difference |
| - Chondroitin - again this is a major component of | | | | between taking them in liquid or tablet form. In addition, |
| cartilage and helps to maintain its structural integrity | | | | simply boosting your intake of a particular vitamin or |
| - Collagen - is an essential part of connective tissue | | | | mineral in isolation may not be for the best. |
| and maintains its elasticity | | | | Many vitamin tablets are compressed which makes it |
| - Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) - this form of sulphur | | | | much harder to absorb them. This is done to make the |
| supports the connective tissue and is thought to have | | | | tablet smaller and easier to swallow. A pill that is not |
| anti inflammatory properties. | | | | compressed is better absorbed. |
| For example the amount of collagen produced by the | | | | Many supplements added to the body work better in |
| liver reduces by anything up to 2% from around the | | | | combination. This is true of Glucosamine and |
| age of 25. This happens under normal circumstances. | | | | Chondroitin. The absorption of certain elements is also |
| Many other factors can affect natural the | | | | improved by the presence of other things. Calcium can |
| regenerative processes of the body - injuries, poor | | | | act as a facilitator. |
| diet, and food depleted in its natural ingredients, etc. | | | | No amount of 'extras' will replace a sound diet. |
| There is heated debate about how to counteract the | | | | However with concerns over the quality of our food; |
| process of ageing and natural wear and tear. Many | | | | challenges to eating well due to lifestyle, etc, additional |
| members of the medical establishment do not support | | | | supplements and vitamins may have a place. |
| the use of food supplements or natural remedies. | | | | |