Joint pain can have many causes, including age-related degenerative changes, injuries, or training overload. Dietary supplements designed to support the proper functioning of the musculoskeletal system must meet general requirements such as improving elasticity, mobility, and joint regeneration. Horse owners, especially in the sport sector, also want to minimize the risk of injury and ensure that the supplement contains no doping-relevant substances. Given the wide range of “joint supplements” on the market, the question arises: How do you find a product that is worth the price and delivers the desired results? Are the active ingredients optimally composed and concentrated to positively impact the horse's health? And has the effectiveness of the ingredients been clinically proven?
ChondroProtect – Use in Nutrition
Composition per daily dose (30 g):
- Chondroitin Sulfate: 4 g
- Glucosamine Hydrochloride: 10 g
- Boswellia Serrata: 10 g (60% concentration of Acetyl-11-keto-ß-Boswellic Acid (AKBA))
- MSM: 5 g
- Rosehip Fruit Extract: 1 g
ChondroProtect – Effects of Ingredients
Boswellic Acid: This has anti-rheumatic, antibacterial, and antiviral properties and helps reduce swelling. Studies show that preparations with a high concentration of Acetyl-11-keto-ß-Boswellic Acid (AKBA) and phenolic compounds offer antioxidant benefits. Physical stress, such as during training, can cause oxidative stress. Research has shown that Boswellia Serrata preparations can reduce oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation (Chilelli et al., 2016). Furthermore, Boswellia Serrata alleviates joint pain and inflammation (Franceschi et al., 2016) and inhibits the activity of the inflammation-promoting enzyme 5-Lipoxygenase (5-LOX) (Orlowska-Majdak, 2014).
MSM: Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a sulfur-containing compound essential for cartilage tissue regeneration. MSM improves nutrient transport and collagen synthesis, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, and alleviates pain. It is particularly effective in combination with Vitamin C, as studies in horses show (Marañón et al., 2008).
Vitamin C (from Rosehip Extract): Vitamin C has antioxidant properties, supports collagen formation, and promotes the regeneration of connective and cartilage tissue. Studies confirm that oral administration of Vitamin C in horses leads to increased blood concentration and is helpful during physical stress, such as competitions (Snow et al., 1987).
Glucosamine Hydrochloride and Chondroitin Sulfate: These substances are essential components of joint fluid and promote cartilage regeneration. They act synergistically, enhancing their effectiveness. Studies show that supplementation of these substances improves mobility and reduces degenerative changes.
Conclusion:
ChondroProtect combines anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and regenerative properties. It protects joints, promotes regeneration, and improves mobility in horses of all ages. It is suitable for both prevention and support during recovery.
References:
- Hanson R.R., Smalley L.R., Huff G.K., White S., Hammad T.A.: Oral Treatment With a Glucosamine-Chondroitin Sulfate Compound for Degenerative Joint Disease in Horses: 25 Cases. Equine Practice 19, 16-20, 1997.
- Chilelli N.C., Rosi C., Del Rio D.: Boswellia Serrata and its potential benefits in oxidative stress reduction. (2016).
- Franceschi F., Mancini E., Lorusso N.: Boswellia Serrata extract in inflammatory and joint pain. (2016).