Have you ever suffered from inflammation? It can be painful, causing swelling and redness that significantly affect your mood and quality of life. Inflammation can take weeks or even months to subside. Interestingly, green-lipped mussels have been shown to help with inflammation. Yes, that’s right!
What is a Green-Lipped Mussel?
The green-lipped mussel is a type of shellfish endemic to New Zealand, well-known for its therapeutic uses. For centuries, the Maori people have used green-lipped mussels for medicinal purposes. These mussels are usually harvested from the wild and consumed fresh, cooked, or powdered.
Green-lipped mussels are larger and softer than Tasmanian blue mussels and are also more delicious. Green-lipped mussel extract from NutriNZ is particularly effective against inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Before delving into those benefits, let’s clarify what inflammation is and explore how New Zealand green-lipped mussels help prevent it.
What is Inflammation?
There are many misconceptions about inflammation. Some think it is a disease, while others see it as a natural healing process. The truth lies somewhere in between.
Inflammation is the immune system’s response to foreign invaders like bacteria, viruses, or injuries. It is the body’s way of protecting itself. During inflammation, blood vessels dilate, increasing blood flow to the affected area, delivering more oxygen and nutrients, and aiding in the healing process. Additionally, inflammatory cells are released to fight the foreign invaders.
While inflammation is necessary, it can become chronic when the body cannot eliminate the foreign invaders. This leads to the continuous release of inflammatory cells, resulting in pain, swelling, and redness. Chronic inflammation has been linked to diseases like arthritis, cancer, and heart disease.
It’s important to note the difference between acute and chronic inflammation. Acute inflammation is a normal response to an injury or infection and usually lasts a few days. In contrast, chronic inflammation is long-term and can last weeks, months, or even years. However, it can be treated with compounds found in green-lipped mussel extracts.
How Green-Lipped Mussel Treats Inflammation
The anti-inflammatory benefits of NutriNZ green-lipped mussel extracts are scientifically proven.
For example, a study published in InflammoPharmacology showed that green-lipped mussel extract inhibits the biosynthesis of leukotriene-B4 (an inflammatory mediator) by stimulated human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (a type of white blood cell) and prostaglandin-E2 (a principal mediator of inflammation) production by activated human macrophages (immune system cells).
Additionally, a study in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that supplementation with green-lipped mussel can attenuate inflammation after exercise. Scientists discovered that intake of the supplement significantly reduced muscle damage and inflammation and was associated with less strength loss than a placebo.
These studies demonstrate that green-lipped mussel can be helpful in treating both acute and chronic inflammation. So, there is no doubt that you will see significant improvement after using New Zealand green-lipped mussels. Moreover, these non-steroidal anti-inflammatory supplements do not cause any health issues.
Compounds and Nutrients in Green-Lipped Mussel
Now that we know how effective green-lipped mussel can be in treating inflammation, let’s look at the compounds and nutrients responsible for its anti-inflammatory activity.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Green-lipped mussel is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). These fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. They work by reducing the production of inflammatory compounds like prostaglandins and leukotrienes. They also reduce the activity of inflammatory enzymes like COX-2 and 5-LOX.
Glutamine
Glutamine is one of 20 naturally occurring amino acids found in green-lipped mussel. Evidence shows that glutamine has anti-inflammatory and moderate analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. Glutamine reduces the release of inflammatory cytokines and inhibits the activation of transcription factor NF-kB, a key player in inflammation.
Minerals
Green-lipped mussel is a good source of minerals like zinc, copper, and selenium, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Zinc can reduce the release of inflammatory cytokines, copper can inhibit the activity of NF-kB, and selenium can reduce the production of inflammatory compounds like leukotrienes and prostaglandins.
Vitamin C
Green-lipped mussel is a great source of Vitamin C. Although not usually considered an anti-inflammatory agent, Vitamin C can help relieve inflammation. Studies show that oxidative stress and inflammation are closely related processes. Vitamin C functions as an antioxidant, preventing or reducing oxidative damage.
Benefits of Green-Lipped Mussel
Beyond its anti-inflammatory benefits, NutriNZ green-lipped mussel also:
- Aids in the production of collagen
- Helps reduce joint pain (treats rheumatoid arthritis)
- Reduces stiffness in the joints
- Increases mobility
- Aids in wound healing
- Improves circulation
- Reduces the risk of heart disease
- Fights free radicals
- Helps combat asthma
- Promotes healthy skin and hair
Are There Any Side Effects?
Many wonder about the side effects of taking green-lipped mussel supplements. If you are allergic to shellfish, it is best to avoid green-lipped mussel supplements. Other than that, there are no known side effects of taking these supplements.
Regular intake of the NZ green-lipped mussel supplement can relieve inflammation and improve quality of life naturally and safely.
Green-Lipped Mussel from NutriNZ
New Zealand Green-Lipped Mussel from NutriNZ or the nutritional supplement Perna Canaliculus is an all-natural dietary supplement enriched with a high-quality extract of the shellfish sourced from reputable marine farms. The supplement also includes rosemary extract, known for its powerful antioxidant properties.
In conclusion, green-lipped mussels offer a promising natural remedy for inflammation, supported by scientific evidence and traditional use. Incorporating them into your diet or supplement regimen could be a game-changer in managing inflammation and improving overall health.
