Arthritis & Lyprinol

In addition to concerns over vitamin A levels in cod liver oil, another problem is that omega-3 fish oils are present in fish only in relatively low amounts. You have to eat a lot of fish to see any benefits. Finally, both scientists and consumers alike are concerned about the health risks surrounding toxins in our fish supplies.

Lyprinol represents a safe and potent source of omega-3 fish oils. Its patented stabilisation process ensures that it's more effective than other green lipped mussel extracts on the market. Lyprinol also shows high potency compared to other types of oil known to show anti-inflammatory properties.

One important study conducted at the Glasgow Homeopathic Hospital studied the treatment of arthritis with both a lipid extract from Lyprinol and raw stabilised green lipped mussel (GLM) powder. The researchers found that whilst both were effective in reducing pain, swelling and stiffness and in improving joint function in both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, the Lyprinol extract achieved a more rapid response. Click here to see this paper in full.

Lyprinol: Further Research

It is well known that the incidence of joint problems in coastal dwelling Maoris is very low. Epidemiological studies have shown this is due to their dietary intake of green lipped mussel. Over the past 20 years, many researchers have sought to find out exactly which component of green lipped mussel is responsible for the therapeutic effects on arthritis. The research reveals that green lipped mussel contains an absolutely unique combination of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA, DHA, DPA and other sterols) which have a synergistic effect that helps the body control the effects of excessive inflammation. For a closer examination of this action, see Lyprinol Science.

It should be stressed that only Lyprinol is subject to its patented stabilisation process which ensures that the end product has the same anti-inflammatory effects as the fresh, raw green lipped mussel. Basically, this gentle, thorough process ensures that the essential lipids do not degrade through oxidation, thereby losing all their beneficial qualities. No other green lipped mussel extract is subject to this crucial stabilisation process. They therefore will not show the same effectiveness as Lyprinol. Indeed, this has been borne out through research.

In the following studies Lyprinol has been shown to be both a safe and an extremely effective way to reduce the inflammation arising from dietary lack of Omega-3 fatty acids

Over the counter oral remedies for arthritis

The effectiveness of over the counter (OTC) joint remedies was compared in an Australian study. The three NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) were effective but gastro toxic. Of 37 herbal formulations, seven were as effective as ibuprofen, without any toxicity. Five of the 10 animal-sourced products were also effective without toxicity. Within a class of products varying from celery seed to green lipped mussel, effectiveness ranged from zero to highly effective. The researchers concluded that factors which conserve the pharmacologically active polyunsaturated mussel lipids that are enriched in Lyprinol resulted in greater potency. To see this research paper in full, please click here.

Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Lyprinol^®

Another study set out to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Lyprinol in patients with osteoarthritis of the hip and knee. The researchers found that Lyprinol treatment led to significant improvement in the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis, with no adverse effects. 55% of patients saw pain relief after 4 weeks. Significantly, this jumped to 80% after 8 weeks. The message then seems to be to stick with it, even if you don't see an immediate improvement. To see this research paper in full, please click here.

The effect of a stabilised oil from green lipped mussel

This Danish investigation studied the effect of Lyprinol on pain and the daily life of patients with osteoarthritis in the knee and hip. The results showed that 12 out of 14 patients reported less pain after three to four weeks. This was accompanied by a considerable improvement in functional ability, but not by the frequent and potentially serious side-effects seen with NSAID (non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) products. To see this research paper in full, please click here.

Should you take extra calcium?

Calcium is an important basic nutrient. Not enough calcium in the diet contributes to osteoporosis (brittle bones). Women after the menopause are particularly susceptible. Many people with swollen joints also have a risk of developing this condition.

The richest sources of calcium in most people's diet are milk and dairy products (foods made from milk: cheese, yoghurt etc., but not butter). If you have about a pint of milk per day or use other dairy products regularly, you should be getting enough calcium. Remember that skimmed milk contains more calcium than full-fat milk. A daily intake of calcium of 1000 milligrams (mg), or 1500 mg if you are over 60, is about right.

If, for any reason, you do not take many dairy products, Soya milk is available in most supermarkets. It can be used in exactly the same way as cow's milk. Some Soya milk is fortified with calcium, so try to use this. If you are not taking dairy products or a good quantity of Soya milk, you may need a calcium supplement. If in doubt, consult a dietician or your doctor.

Should you take iron tablets?

Iron is important to prevent anaemia. Many people with swollen joints are anaemic, but this will not always be helped by iron. Your anaemia can be due to different things. NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen and diclofenac help joint pain and stiffness, but may cause stomach ulcers and bleeding in some people, leading to anaemia If you are anaemic your doctor can advise you whether you need more iron.

The best source of iron in food is red meat. However, as many people are now cutting down on red meat for various reasons, it's important to have iron from other sources. Iron from fish is easily absorbed by your body and oily fish are a very good source. For example, sardines contain as much iron as beef does.

Iron is better absorbed when you also have vitamin C in the meal. So have a good portion of vegetables or salad or fresh fruit with your meat or fish. On the other hand, tea reduces the amount of iron which your body can absorb so it's a good idea not to drink tea with your meal.

If you're a vegetarian, remember that dairy products like milk and cheese are a very poor source of iron, but pulses like haricot beans and lentils and dark leafy vegetables (such as spinach and watercress) are pretty good. They should be included daily in a vegetarian diet.