While most companies are addressing the problem of osteoarthritis with glucosamine and chondroitin, Quantum Herbs is taking the lead with a different path.
Research has shown that glucosamine can have a beneficial effect on joint regeneration, although it does have some severe limitations. Glucosamine is not absorbed as glucosamine. As with most compounds glucosamine must first be broken down into small units, such as glucose, so absorption may take place. This yields several problems. Only a fraction of glucosamine is restructured back into glucosamine after being broken down for absorption. The remaining breakdown products are utilized in other manners. Because only a portion of ingested glucosamine is reverted back into glucosamine, it can take many months to even start taking effect in cartilage regeneration. In addition, there is concern that diabetics need to be careful with taking glucosamine supplements since it can raise blood sugar levels as it is broken down. The primary source of commercial glucosamine and chondroitin is shellfish, leading to warnings for people with shellfish allergies as well.
Chondroitin is often combined with glucosamine, but studies have shown that only around 8% of chondroitin actually gets absorbed due to the very large molecule size. This makes chondroitin less effective than glucosamine.
To get around the problems of glucosamine/chondroitin supplementation, the Bone and Joint formula uses a different approach. Instead of relying on glucosamine and chondroitin with their absorption and utilization problems, the Bone and Joint formula relies on the building blocks of the joints proteins. This allows the body to generate its own glucosamine and chondroitin which allows for faster and more effective results than with glucosamine and chondroitin supplementation.
In addition, the Bone and Joint formula addresses other factors affecting our skeletal system not addressed by glucosamine and chondroitin. For example the mineralization of bones, bone and cartilage nutrition, collagen and elastin formation, glandular and hormone support, support of the intestinal flora, sugar and pH balance, growth stimulators, cellular energy production, antioxidant activity, and strengthening of tendons, and ligaments. Structural integrity and health of the surrounding tissues play as much of a role in joint health as does the structural integrity and health of the joint itself.
The Bone and Joint formula also contains numerous anti-inflammatories that will not deteriorate joints as will nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen. In addition, these herbal anti-inflammatories do not cause the other problems associated with the use of NSAIDs. These include heart attack, stroke, liver and kidney failure, aseptic meningitis, loss of vision, tinnitus, ulcers, internal bleeding, and death. The FDA estimates that there are over 16,000 deaths annually from the use of prescription and over the counter NSAIDs. Contrary to popular belief, these side effects are not always from long term use or overdose. Many of these side effects can occur with a single recommended dose of these drugs due to their ability to cut off the blood supply to major organs. People with congestive heart failure, arteriosclerosis, Raynaud’s disease/phenomena, and diabetics are at the greatest risk for single dose induced heart attack, stroke, kidney and liver failure.
Silica - one of the most important components to maintaining Healthy BONES
Bone is a living tissue of the body comprised primarily of proteins and minerals. Most people think of the minerals as being the source of strength for bone. And because of this, people tend to think that taking calcium alone will keep their bones healthy. Both assumptions are wrong. The majority of strength in bone comes from its protein (collagen) matrix, not its minerals. And silica is far more important than calcium in maintaining strong, healthy bones. Silica not only aids in the absorption of calcium, and is essential for the formation of bone proteins, but it is also the silica that allows for the mineralization of bone. Without silica a person could take all sorts of minerals and still lack bone density. In addition, bone requires a number of other nutrients for proper health and strength. These include proline, lysine, sulfur, boron, phosphorus, magnesium, strontium, fluoride, manganese, copper, zinc, vitamins A, C, D, E, K and essential fatty acids.
Osteoporosis drugs, known as bisphonates, have become very popular due to heavy pharmaceutical marketing. The public is being mislead though about the safety and effectiveness of these drugs. These drugs can harden the bones. Hardening bones is not the same as strengthening. As these drugs harden the bone they actually make the bones more brittle, which increases the risk of the bone fracturing. The problem is twofold. First, these drugs lead to the formation of very poor quality bone tissue during reformation of bone. Secondly, bone must have the ability to bend somewhat to absorb shock when force is applied. When bisphonates excessively mineralize the bone’s collagen matrix, the bone loses its ability to absorb force, which makes it fracture more readily. To make matters worse, these drugs may remain in the body for up to 10 years after their use is discontinued.
The collagen matrix actually bends slightly when force is applied to absorb the forces applied to bone so it will not fracture as easily. The collagen matrix is made up in part from silica compounds. These silica compounds also produce electricity when force is applied, which electrodeposits minerals into the collagen matrix, thus generating bone density.
Cartilage also contains silica compounds, which plays a role in keeping cartilage from falling apart or crushing when forces are applied to it. A lack of blood supply to cartilage keeps the majority of minerals, such as calcium, from reaching and mineralizing the cartilage.
Silica levels decline in our tissues as we age though leading to loss of the proteins collagen and elastin. This is turn leads to degenerative disorders such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, emphysema, diverticulitis, and even wrinkles. If you think about it, how often do you see these conditions in infants or teenagers?
Arthritis, which literally means “inflammation of the joints” has various causes. In fact there are over 100 forms of arthritis. Some forms occur from injury, or wear and tear. Many forms of arthritis result from infections. Yet others can occur from build up of damaging substances, such as uric acid or from structural abnormalities.
Contributing factors for the formation of osteoporosis and arthritis' include nutritional deficiencies, medications (including anti-inflammatory drugs), consumption of dairy products or high phosphorus or high protein foods (such as beef), dehydration, structural abnormalities, injuries, and wear and tear of the joints.
In addition to taking the Bone and Joint Formula, here are some additional suggestions to maintain healthy bone and joint tissue include:
Drink enough water throughout the day to maintain hydration. Spring water is the best. Reverse osmosis or distilled water are not recommended since these purified waters will rob beneficial vitamins and minerals from the body. Avoid dairy products. Contrary to the marketing hype, dairy will deteriorate bones. This is due to the blocking action of protein on calcium absorption, the acids formed from the sugars and protein. And the displacement of calcium by milk’s high phosphorus content. The U.S. and Finland are the largest consumers of dairy in the world and also suffer the greatest rates of osteoporosis. All carbonated drinks should be avoided. Protein consumption should be limited, especially red meats, which are very high in phosphorus. Eat more green leafy vegetables. Their vitamin K will help keep bones healthy. Their fiber will build up the intestinal flora, which also play roles in maintaining healthy bones. Get outside and exercise. Bones build density by being stressed by exercise. The vitamin D formed by the action of sunshine will not only strengthen your bones, but vitamin D protects us from numerous cancers. And finally, research your medications. Many commonly sold medications are damaging to bone and cartilage health or formation.
Ingredients:
Calcium Malate - An acidified form of calcium for improved absorption. Malic acid aids in the formation of ATP, which fuels the cells.
Magnesium Malate - Provides magnesium, essential for bone strength. Malic acid aids in the formation of ATP, which fuels the cells.
Nettle Leaf - Rich source of minerals, especially calcium and silica. Excellent source of vitamin C to improve calcium absorption, improve immune function, prevent free radical damage and to build collagen. Great source of vitamins including Bs, D, and K, all essential for proper bone strength. Nettle is anti-inflammatory and removes uric acid in gout. Supports the growth of beneficial intestinal flora. Helps maintain proper function of the thyroid, which plays a role in bone metabolism.
Butcher's Broom - Rich in silica. Anti-inflammatory and improves circulation.
Bamboo - Nature's richest herbal source of silica, 7 times higher than horsetail grass (shavegrass). Silica is used in the formation of bone, cartilage, tendons and ligaments, and reduces inflammation. Silica aids in the absorption of calcium, and is essential for mineralization of bone. Unlike horsetail grass, which contains nicotine and constricts blood vessels, bamboo dilates blood vessels to provide more oxygen and nutrients to the tissues.
Kudzu Root - Rich source of phytoestrogens, which help prevent bone loss, particularly in menopausal women. Reduces muscle stiffness.
Boneset - Stimulates bone growth.
Turmeric - Powerful antioxidant. Shown in studies to reduce cartilage degradation.
Alfalfa - Vitamins supplied by this plant include C, D, and K for strong bones. Vitamin C, and B vitamins support proper immune function. Alfalfa is also an excellent source of calcium, magnesium, manganese, boron, sulfur, silica, strontium, zinc, as well as other minerals and trace minerals which are required for the growth and strength of bones and cartilage. Supplies 18 amino acids and 8 digestive enzymes. Alfalfa reduces the level of acids in the blood, and supports the growth of beneficial intestinal flora. Richest herbal source of phytoestrogens to help prevent bone loss.
Kelp - Contains the same vitamins and minerals found in alfalfa. Supports the growth of beneficial intestinal flora. Source of phytoestrogens to help prevent bone loss. Aids in the removal of heavy metals, such as cadmium, that can lead to bone deterioration.
Amla - Rich and stable source of vitamin C for collagen formation and adrenal gland support. Source of several antioxidants. Stimulates production of the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immune stimulating enzyme superoxide dismutase (S.O.D).
Black Walnut Hulls - Provides nutrients for cartilage formation and health. Supports thyroid function.
Burdock root - Rich in minerals and trace minerals for bone, cartilage, tendon and ligament formation. Blood cleanser and removes acids from the blood.
Oatstraw - Provides silica and vitamin C for collagen formation. B vitamins and vitamin C support proper immune function. Provides calcium, magnesium, and manganese. Phytoestrogen source to prevent bone loss. Supports the growth of beneficial intestinal flora.
Vitamin C Crystals - Helps build collagen and supports adrenal function. Antioxidant.
Ashwagandha - Supports adrenal glands reducing excess cortisol release, which deteriorates bone. Helps control inflammation. Supports thyroid function.
Dipsacus Root - Promotes circulation. Strengthens bones and tendons.
Prepared Rehmannia - Supports adrenal gland function, which reduces inflammation and stress induced bone loss. Used in Chinese medicine to reduce the side effects of rheumatoid arthritis and pharmaceutical steroids, and to repair broken bones. Regulates the sex hormones. Improves muscle mass, strengthens bones, tendons, ligaments. Supports bone marrow, which form stem cells for the production of tissues. Rich in amino acids, supplying 20 different amino acids.
Watercress - Rich source of vitamins and minerals. Higher in vitamin C than oranges, and contains more calcium than milk. Excellent sulfur source, which with the other nutrients in watercress form collagen for tissue strength. Very supporting to the adrenal and thyroid glands.
Yucca Root - Anti-inflammatory, assists in absorption of nutrients. Supports the growth of beneficial intestinal flora.
Boron - Supports the parathyroid gland, which plays a role in the mineralization of bones. Prevents bone loss in post-menopausal women not taking estrogen replacement therapy.
Wondrous Products is a Calcium Supplement online store. Our main offerings include: Coral Calcium Supplement, B12 Supplements, Cranberry Supplement, Osteoporosis Pills, Natural Products and Bone Vitamins.
