Eggshell Membrane
Eggshell Membrane, that protective barrier that remains in the shells of raw broken eggs, has been shown to significantly reduce joint pain and improve joint function. According to Dr. Karen Becker, eggshell membrane contains a number of natural substances for today’s pets, including:
• Collagen - A fibrous protein that supports cartilage and connective tissue strength and elasticity.
• Elastin - A protein that supports skin, cardiovascular, cartilage, and spinal health. Elastin gives tissue its elastic tension and ability to resume its shape after stretching.
• Desmosine and isodesmosine - Two little-known amino acids responsible for elastin’s elastic or “rubbery” properties.
• Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) - Includes glucosamine, chondroitin, and hyaluronic acid - vital polysaccharides that are structural components of connective tissue, interstitial fluids and skeletal structure.
• Transforming growth factor-b - A protein that plays a crucial role in cellular differentiation and immune function.”
References:
http://products.mercola.com/healthypets/pet-joint-supplements/
Eggshell membrane: A possible new natural therapeutic for joint and connective tissue disorders. Results from two open-label human clinical studies Kevin J Ruff, Dale P DeVore, Michael D Leu, Mark A Robinson, Clin Interv Aging. 2009; 4: 235–240. Published online 2009 Jun 9.
Support of Joint Function, Range of Motion, and Physical Activity Levels by Consumption of a Water-Soluble Egg Membrane Hydrolyzate Gitte S. Jensen, Miki R. Lenninger, Joni L. Beaman, Robert Taylor, Kathleen F. Benson. J Med Food. 2015 Sep 1; 18(9): 1042–1048.