Ingredient Glossary
Joint Product Ingredients:
Sweetwater Nutrition’s Joint Products will use mixtures of the following ingredients. The mixtures will vary in content and amounts depending on the specific product. Please consult the specific product page or category to learn more.
Bioflavanoids
Super-antioxidants, referred to as Vitamin P, that have anti-inflammatory properties and work in conjunction with Vitamin C.
Boswellia
An herb whose active ingredients work as an anti-inflammatory by improving the blood supply to the affected area and enhancing the repair of local blood vessels damaged by inflammation.
Bromelain
Bromelain is a mixture of protein-digesting enzymes which is extracted from the plant family Bromeliaceae, the most popular of which is pineapple. In 1957 researchers discovered that bromelain, which is concentrated in the stem of the plant, was the active ingredient responsible for its numerous beneficial effects, one of which includes aiding in the breakdown and digestion of proteins. Bromelain may also have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving actions on joints, muscles and connective tissues.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin is a component of connective tissues that are found in joint cartilage and bone. Chondroitin is believed to enhance shock-absorbing characteristics of collagen and block enzymes that break down cartilage. Recent studies have shown that when used in conjunction with glucosamine, chondroitin reduces pain in osteoarthritis and can reverse cartilage loss.
Curcumin (Turmeric)
Curcumin is a naturally occurring compound that is found in the Indian spice turmeric and has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. Recent evidence reinforces that curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties that inhibit the enzymes COX-2 and LOX, both of which appear to cause inflammation. Curcumin prevents connective tissue break down through inhibiting these destructive enzymes and, unlike conventional non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), curcumin does not cause gastrointestinal side effects or ulcers. Patented for its unique composition ratio and use, we use Curcumin C3 Complex® in our products, which is comprised of three main chemical compounds – Curcumin, Demethoxycurcumin & Bisdemethoxycurcumin – collectively known as Curcuminoids.
Garlic
Commonly called a “superfood”, it is widely believed that garlic has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and antioxidant properties. The key therapeutic ingredient in garlic is allicin. Allicin is an odorless sulfur-containing chemical derived from the amino acid cysteine. Allicin is what gives garlic its antibiotic properties and is responsible for its distinct odor.
Glucosamine HCl
An amino sugar that has been shown in studies to inhibit symptoms of advance joint problems. Glucosamine plays a key role in reducing inflammation and the enzymes that lead to inflammation that ultimately destroy cartilage. Glucosamine is naturally produced by the body, yet over time, the natural production of Glucosamine is inadequate to protect the joints from wear and tear and must be supplemented.
Hyaluronic Acid (HA)
HA is a gel-like substance naturally found in the connective tissue space and the synovial fluid of movable joints. Orally administered HA has been shown in several studies to be bio-available (absorbable) and effective in replacing the damaged HA in the joint that is commonly caused by trauma, overuse, or every day wear and tear. Research studies have shown that using Hyaluronic Acid for dogs can be effective in supporting healthy joint function and mobility.
Licorice Root Extract
Licorice root, or glycyrrhiza glabra, is a concentrated herb that is frequently used as a medicinal remedy, as it contains antibacterial, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. A recent study published in “Phytomedicine” confirmed that licorice root exhibits its anti-inflammatory behavior through inhibiting prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which are lipid compounds that can cause inflammation. Licorice root may also have the ability to fight off certain infections due to its antibacterial and antimicrobial agents.
Manganese
Manganese is a trace element crucial for proper formation of healthy bones and joints. It is concentrated in cell mitochondria, mostly in the pituitary gland, liver, pancreas, kidney, and bone, influences the synthesis of mucopolysaccharides, stimulates hepatic synthesis of cholesterol and fatty acids, and is a co-factor in many enzymes, including arginase and alkaline phosphatase in the liver.
MSM
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is an organic sulfur that plays a critical role in the formation of protein and connective tissue. Sulfur is a naturally occurring mineral that is available in two forms: dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). MSM occurs naturally in several species of plants, and is important in joint health and also helps form connective tissue — cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. It may also slow the nerve impulses that transmit pain signals, reducing discomfort.
Calcium Ascorbate – Vitamin C (Buffered)
Vitamin C from Calcium Ascorbate is an antioxidant that protects the body against damage from free radicals that accelerate the aging process and are largely responsible for many degenerative diseases. Vitamin C is also needed to make collagen, the protein necessary for the formation and repair of blood capillaries and connective tissue such as cartilage, skin, bone, tendons and ligaments.
Yucca
Yucca is a highly popular herb widely believed to relieve pain and inflammation, as the main active ingredient (a protein called saponin) has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Yucca is known to have steroidal-like effects that may benefit joint issues by suppressing pathogens in the digestive tract that cause joint inflammation. Yucca root also contains resveratrol, which is a natural phytoalexin that has proven antioxidant properties to protect the body from cellular damage caused by oxidation.
Zinc Citrate
Zinc is a necessary trace element in the diet, forming an essential part of many enzymes, and playing an important role in protein synthesis and in cell division. Involved in over 100 enzyme systems ranging from connective tissue formation and antioxidant protection to carbohydrate metabolism and immune system function, zinc is most recognized for its role in healthy skin and connective tissue.
