NATURAL EGGSHELL MEMBRANE (NEM) FOR IMPROVING JOINTS & OSTEOARTHRITIS

Q. What is NEM? I have read I should be taking it for my arthritis. Is this true?

A.
What is it?
Natural Eggshell Membrane (or NEM) is fairly new to the supplement market, but already attracting some loyal fans. NEM contains naturally occurring glycosaminoglycans and proteins that play a vital role in maintaining healthy joints and connective tissues. In recent studies, NEM has been shown to both reduce pain and stiffness and increase range of motion in those individuals suffering from arthritis.

Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body, although it most commonly affects hands, knees, spine and hips. As we age, generally occurring after the age of 40, the body is no longer able to efficiently repair bone and cartilage in the joint. It is usually a slow process, resulting in deterioration and inflammation of the joint, leading to pain.

How it works
Natural eggshell membrane naturally contains glucosamine, chondroitin, hyaluronic acid and Type 1 collagen, all of which have been studied and used individually and in some combinations for some time, as a means of supporting joint health. Because NEM is a naturally occurring, it is said to contain the necessary ratios of these substances in combination. It is believed that the combination of these substances in this form can serve to both treat the pain symptoms with its anti-inflammatory properties, as well as actually serve to re-build and repair connective tissue in the joint. Studies have shown NEM to reduce pain and stiffness by 50% in most study participants. These improvements were seen at all time intervals, including just 10 days following supplementation, although the longer periods of 30 – 60 days showed a more significant improvement. These quick and effective results are rarely seen with glucosamine alone.

Safety and dosage information
There have been no adverse side effects reported with the use of NEM. In studies side effects did not differ significantly from those individuals taking placebo. This is a bonus for arthritis sufferers who have been taking prescription and over the counter medications that can cause severe gastric irritation over time, like NSAIDs. Unlike some other commonly used supplements aimed at decreasing arthritis symptoms, NEM is recommended at a dosage of only 500 mg/day – equivalent to only one capsule a day in most cases.

Other osteoarthritis interventions
Whether you 'should' be taking NEM for your arthritis is really up to you. Although the current studies are very promising, and the logic behind its use for the treatment of arthritis, given what it contains, is logical, there is still limited research available. Certainly, with its great safety record and lack of side effects NEM might be a very effective option for those individuals looking for added support. Remember also, there are a number of diet and lifestyle interventions that can also help to improve arthritis symptoms and in combination with the right supplements, may make all the difference in terms of pain relief and prevention of further deterioration of the joints. Don't forget the importance of cultivating a less acidic internal environment by eating foods that promote alkalinity. Weight reduction, if you are overweight, is also essential to help decrease load and strain on the joints. Be aware of food sensitivities or allergies and avoid these foods. Ingesting these items can increase inflammation throughout the entire body, including joints, and exacerbate pain. If you think you may have some digestive issues, consider supplementing with a digestive enzyme, as well. As we age our body makes these enzymes less efficiently and we are less able to breakdown and absorb the nutrients that we need from food. You could be eating all the right foods, but if you aren't able to take advantage of the therapeutic benefit due to malabsorption, it means very little. Lastly, low impact cardiovascular and weight bearing exercise will help to support and strengthen muscles surrounding the joint, as well as protect the joint itself from further damage and help to increase mobility. Don't forget to keep moving!!!

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