Reducing Joint Pain by Regulating the Immune System
Jan
23
Written by:
1/23/2012
Undenatured type II collagen (UC-II) has been found in animal and human studies to improve mobility, reduce pain and enhance quality of life for patients with autoimmune arthritis (i.e. rheumatoid, connective tissue disorders such as lupus and systemic Sjogren's) and also osteoarthritis.
UC-II is reported to work like a reverse vaccine in that it inhibits the immune system's over-reaction to the normal proteins found in joint cartilage.
Arthritis typically involves the destruction and loss of integrity of cartilage. Today it's known that rather than being broken down by wear and tear, the destruction of cartilage is related to an immune-mediated inflammatory assault. Exposed collagen fibers are the immune system's target in arthritis. UC-II induces oral tolerance to exposed cartilage fibers, halting the autoimmune assault. Clinical trials have shown UC-II to be superior to the winning combination of glucosamine/chondroitin.
UC-II is now available with boswellia in Life Extension's Arthromax. I'm not endorsing this product but I'll give you an update soon. I ordered some yesterday to try on both me and my 14.5 year dog who has hip dysplasia and trouble walking. I'll report on any effects we note in a few weeks.
Source:
William Preston, Rebuild Aging Joints, Life Extension, Special Winter Edition 2011-2012: 40-6.