Without doubt the most important supplement ingredient for osteoarthritis is chondroitin sulphate.

The reasons are simple. Chondroitin is a very important constituent of cartilage matrix. This matrix is   secreted by specialised cells called chondrocytes. These amazing cells live in tiny cavities (lacunae) in cartilage. Their role is to maintain cartilage as it is damaged by wear and tear, injury and chemical processes that damage it.

That being said, the health of cartilage is totally dependent on maintaining healthy chondrocytes. Unlike many other cell types, chondrocytes cannot be replaced.

There are a number of antioxidants and trace minerals that directly affect the health of chondrocytes. The most important is Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric. Curcumin is perhaps the most studied natural health ingredient.

As a potent antioxidant it helps protect chondrocytes from damage from free radicals. Secondly, Curcumin is anti-inflammatory which can help calm the joint by preventing unwanted fluid build-up.

A two capsule daily dose of my joint formula contains 800mg of both chondroitin and glucosamine and 200mg of Curcumin C3 Complex plus 5mg of BioPerine. In most cases I will start clients on a double dose of two capsules twice daily for around six weeks.

This provides double the above dosages. When combined with good quality fish oil these results in rapid results.

Last week I completed a review for a client I have been helping with very sore thumbs from osteoarthritis in his big thumb joint by the wrist.

He reported a significant improvement over the past three months.

Please contact me if you have joint problems and I will put together a personalised joint health programme. In the vast majority of cases we can get real improvements in flexibility and comfort.