John Arts Abundant Living www.johnarts.co.nz

Last week we saw that damage to specialised cartilage cells called chondrocytes was the first step in the development of osteoarthritis (OA).

Research suggests that chondrocytes can be damaged by physical damage from accidents or gradually, probably from insufficient dietary antioxidants. Cartilage is a tough matrix that includes living chondrocytes.

The matrix of cartilage is a combination of proteins (mostly collagen), glycosaminoglycan (GAG) and water.

The most abundant GAG is chondroitin sulphate. In my opinion, adding correct amounts of high grade chondroitin is the single most important part of OA therapy. Cartilage is 80 per cent water, which is why it acts as a shock absorber. GAG such as chondroitin readily attracts water. This is an important reason to stay well hydrated - a real problem with our aging population.

Cartilage then has two main components. What you see is the tough cartilage matrix. What you don't see is the tiny chondrocytes tucked away in tiny cocoons called lacunae.

When working properly, chondrocytes act like repair kits for cartilage. They actively secrete new cartilage matrix when damaged or worn.

My nutritional therapy for OA is firstly based on protecting chondrocytes by adding antioxidants. These include curcumin from turmeric, and others such as trace minerals like selenium and grape seed extract.

We then add compounds that help stimulate chondrocytes to make cartilage, especially chondroitin but also glucosamine.

I have one client who had a damaged shoulder and hip. Both caused him real problems.

We increased antioxidants and added my joint complex and he reports he is largely pain free.

I like to initially add 1500mg of both chondroitin and glucosamine with about 400mg of 95 per cent curcumin extract (from turmeric).

This is usually sufficient to start the healing process and often brings significant relief.

For more information give me a call or email: john@abundant.co.nz.

You can read back issues at: www.abundant.co.nz

John Arts is a qualified nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health. Contact John on: 0800 423 559.