When it comes to choosing joint supplements there are many options. Use caution when choosing both the supplement and brand. Recent studies have shown that some brands come far short of the label claims. In one study of eleven chondroitin products, tests showed four of the products contained less than half the stated amount of chondroitin. How do you choose a product? The Arthritis Foundation says to pick the most reputabile brand--don't try to save with a cheaper imitation.

1) Glucosamine

Glucosamine is an amino acid that is naturally produced in the body. Glucosamine is a precursor to a molecule used in the formation and repair of cartilage. Treatment with glucosamine is based on the idea that oral consumption of the substance may increase to rate of formation of new cartilage by providing more of the necessary building blocks. The recommended dose of glucosamine in 1500mg each day for one to two months. Ongoing treatment if often continued if results are favorable.

2) Chondroitin

Chondroitin is the most abundant glycosaminoglycan in cartilage and is partly responsible for the resiliency of cartilage. Chondroitin is also important in preventing the action of enzymes that destroy cartilage. The recommended dose of chondroitin is 800 mg each day (400 mg twice daily) for one to two months. Ongoing treatment if often continued if results are favorable. Most commonly chondroitin is take in combination with glucosamine.

3) MSM

MSM (Methyl-Sulfonyl-Methane) is a pure, organic, non-toxic, non-metallic element that occurs widely in nature. MSM is a metabolite of the compound dimethysulfoxide, and by weight is 34% elemental sulfur, making it one of the richest sources of sulfur. MSM has been shown to be completely non-toxic in study after study, even in high dosages. Storehouses of MSM, in mammals, decreases with age, which may be caused by changing diet or body metabolism. This should not be allowed to occur.

Your body uses MSM to continually create new healthy cells to replace old ones. If your body is not receiving the proper nutrition including MSM, the body may produce weak dysfunctional cells.

4) Combination Supplements

Combinations of both glucosamine and chondroitin, and all three aforementioned supplements, are readily available. These combinations are usually cheaper than the individual medications and certainly easier to take. Use caution when taking these medications, and check with your doctor before starting these drugs.

FlexMax Glucosamine Chondroitin

FlexMax Glucosamine Chondroitin Sulfate combines the two most popular supplements for joint health in a low sodium supplement enhanced with proprietary StomachGuard technology, which regulates and cushions the release of Glucosamine, and shields against potential stomach irritation.

Ideal for Hands, Wrists, Knees, Back, Neck, Elbows, Hips and Ankles. Glucosamine Sulfate, lubricates damaged joint tissue by providing nutrient flow to tissue and cartilage. Chondroitin sulfate is one of the most abundant components of articular cartilage, a key component for healthy joints.*

Recommended Daily Dosage: Take two tablets two times daily. Nature's Way FlexMax can be comfortably taken at any time of the day with or without a meal.