Abalone Marine Nutrients and Arthritis

Abalone is a term used to refer to sea snails, scallops, octopuses, and squid from the Halitodiae family. The most distinguished part of the abalone is its shell with a row of respiratory pores. However, this marine organism is known for treating or preventing various diseases and health problems.

Abalone is highly nutritious which is why abalone is known for offering different types of health benefits, especially when eaten raw. Not just that, supplementation with abalone is also highly recommended for human health. In fact, it is the easiest way to get the maximum out of the health benefits abalone provides.

If we talk about some benefits, these include weight management, improved joint health, arthritis management, blood pressure, liver health, and so on. To learn more, check out NutriNZ’s Abalone Health Benefits to know all the potential health benefits of abalone. 

With that said, let’s discuss how abalone helps in arthritis management when consumed with basic nutrition. 

How does Abalone aid Arthritis Management?

Abalone can turn out to be one of the best options for arthritis management. And there are more than one reasons to support this fact. 

The first and the most prominent reason is the healthy compounds, marine bioactive compounds, and essential amino acids present in these marine organisms. Apart from this, abalone meat contains protein concentration, but we are talking about abalone supplementation and its compounds here.

So, let’s check them out!

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs)

Abalone proves to be effective in arthritis management primarily thanks to high levels of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). In case you don’t know, GAGs are defined as a family of highly sulfated, complex, polysaccharides with important biological roles. 

We can categorize GAGs into different groups such as heparin, chondroitin, keratan sulfate, and hyaluronan[1].

Let’s discuss these groups in detail.

Chondroitin

A type of glycosaminoglycans, chondroitin is a component of human connective tissues found in bones and cartilage. Supplementation with chondroitin is considered effective for arthritis patients and science proved it. 

A study from the BMJ confirmed that chondroitin is equally effective as a widely prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug celecoxib in the management of knee osteoarthritis[2]. 

It is because chondroitin sulfate consumption prevents cartilage from breaking down and it reduces the activity of enzymes and substances that break down collagen in a person’s joints.

Evidence shows that chondroitin prevents narrowing of the joint space and reduces joint swelling and effusion. To exhibit these benefits, the substance induces anti-inflammatory effects[3]. 

It is particularly important if we bear in mind that the second most common type of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, is associated with strong inflammation[4] in the body.

Hyaluronan

Besides chondroitin, another type of GAGs associated with arthritis management is hyaluronan. Hyaluronic acid, or hyaluronan, is found in the extracellular matrix, especially in soft connective tissues. 

While hyaluronic acid makes us think of the beauty and skincare industry, the compound is beneficial for many other functions in your body including the adequate functioning of your joints.

Studies show that supplementation with hyaluronic acid is absorbed and distributed to the bone, skin, and synovial joints. Not only that, it remained in these tissues for prolonged periods. Regular intake of hyaluronic acid alleviates symptoms of osteoarthritis, particularly when coupled with quadriceps strengthening exercise[5].

Thanks to chondroitin and hyaluronic acid, abalone supplementation aids arthritis management by lubricating joints, thus decreasing friction, pain, discomfort, and limited range of motion associated with it.

Heparin

Heparin is a long chain of sugar molecules. It is found in the connective tissue of animals and helps to regulate blood clotting. 

Heparin has been shown to be effective in treating arthritis, as it helps to reduce inflammation and pain. In addition, heparin can help to prevent the formation of new blood clots, which can further damage joint tissue. 

A study on 10 patients with rheumatoid arthritis showed significant clinical improvements after oral administration with heparin[8]. There was a significant improvement in swollen joints, tenderness, etc. 

As a result, heparin is an important treatment for arthritis and can help to improve the quality of life for those affected by this condition.

Keratan Sulfate

Keratan sulfate (KS) is a type of glycosaminoglycan (GAG) found in the connective tissues of the body, including the joints. There are different sources of keratan sulfate, including NutriNZ’s abalone pure extract supplement. 

It helps to protect these tissues from wear and tear, and also plays a role in shock absorption. KS has proven to be effective in reducing the symptoms of arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis. This form of arthritis is caused by the breakdown of cartilage, which can lead to pain and inflammation. 

Keratan Sulfate works by inhibiting the action of enzymes that break down cartilage, and also by stimulating the production of new cartilage cells. It has turned out to be particularly effective when used in combination with other forms of treatment, such as physical therapy or in supplements such as NutriNZ’s abalone.

Fatty Acids

Besides GAGs which do a wonderful job in lubricating your joints and helping you manage arthritis, abalone supplies your body with other important substances that are beneficial for this purpose. 

Here are some fatty acid components that your body gets through abalone supplementation:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Abalone is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids which provide anti-inflammatory effects and many nutritional benefits. 

Numerous studies have confirmed that Omega-3s show tremendous potential in the management of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions[6]. As mentioned above, inflammation plays a major role in arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis.

The benefits of Omega-3 essential fatty acids in arthritis management don’t stop with its ability to attenuate inflammation only. Studies show that supplementation with these useful fatty acids improves symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Last, but not least, it reduces the long-term requirements for medications[7] which leads to a better quality of life.

Abalone Marine Nutrients from NutriNZ

NutriNZ’s Abalone Extract is a dietary supplement that delivers the world’s healthiest abalone, a major source of Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, glycosaminoglycans, and other important nutrients and compounds. 

Regular supplementation with abalone reduces inflammation in your joints, improves lubrication, and thereby aids in the management of arthritis symptoms. 

All these benefits by NutriNZ are achieved without side effects in an entirely natural manner because abalone supplements deliver naturally-occurring substances that are already found in your joints and tissues.

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