Webber Naturals expert, Wendy Tao, BSc., takes a look at supplement research limitations in regard to research and consumer feedback being at odds.
Scientific research is extremely important in the development and validation of any health product. However, there are, of course, conflicting studies, studies that have flaws, and studies with insufficient sample sizes or differing methodologies. So you can't always compare "apples to apples," or study to study.
Most people still rely on one of the earliest forms of research when deciding whether or not to use a dietary supplement: "Does it work for me?" The very roots of natural medicine are "evidence-based," the evidence being the individual's own experience in using a natural product and discovering whether it eases their symptoms, and/or strengthens or moderates his or her body's functioning in a positive way.
For example, as millions of North Americans experience the pain and stiffness of osteoarthritis as they age, the use of glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate supplements is at an all-time high. Some studies suggest that these compounds ease pain and help rebuild joints, while others say that glucosamine is no more effective than a placebo. However, if one only read studies and didn't look at individuals and listen to their experiences, that person wouldn't be doing a thorough job of researching.
That is why we welcome personal reports from our customers. The following people felt strongly enough about the benefits of glucosamine and chondroitin products or Osteo Joint Ease* to share their experiences:
"I was very skeptical about this product (Osteo Joint Ease) but decided to try it. Before taking it I could not play 18 holes of golf without being in severe pain afterward, so much so that I had difficulty walking. I have taken it for three weeks and have no trouble golfing 18 and can go out after and take the dog for a long walk."
"I had a bike accident and was sore for 2 weeks, but once I started taking the Osteo Joint Ease I was better within 3 days".
"My left knee was causing me much pain and discomfort. X-rays confirmed that I had arthritis. My doctor offered no remedy. I read an article in Women's World that research established that when combined with salmon oil, glucosamine was 55% more effective. I included two capsules of glucosamine with two capsules of salmon oil in my smoothie recipe. Within two weeks my pain disappeared. That was over 6 months ago, and today, at 72, I have absolutely no pain and can chase my grandkids around like a youthful 50 year old."
" I had a brain and back injury 20 years ago. Recently I've been taking your glucosamine and chondroitin and my back is the best it has been in 10 years."
Looking and listening are still valid forms of research. Leave a comment and let me know if you have experience with joint supplements that you would like to share.
*Osteo Joint Ease contains:
- Glucosamine sulfate (potassium chloride from shrimp/crab exoskeleton) – 750 mg
- MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) – 300 mg
- Chondroitin sulfate (sodium from bovine cartilage) – 200 mg
- *InflamEase™ BioStandard™ process super extract formula (patent pending) – 100 mg
- Ultra fruit blend (76% polyphenols): Grape seed extract (Vitis vinifera), cranberry extract (Vaccinium macrocarpon), blueberry extract (Vaccinium corymbosum), strawberry extract (Fragaria vesca), raspberry extract (Rubus idaeus), pomegranate extract (Punica granatum), bilberry extract (Vaccinium myrtillus)
- Boswellia (Boswellia serrata) (gum) extract (60% boswellic acids) – 50 mg
- Turmeric (Curcuma longa) (rhizome) 25:1 extract – 20 mg
- Hyaluronic acid – 7.5 mg
- Manganese (sulfate monohydrate) – 0.75 mg
- Boron (sodium tetraborate) – 0.225 mg
Image source: http://arthritis-cure.info/
Around this time of year it seems as though the work just keeps piling up. And what’s worse, with everything that you have to accomplish, there’s little time to de-stress and take a moment for yourself.