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by
Shawn Messonnier, D.V.M.
(The following is quoted from Dr. Messonier's book in "The Natural Vet Series" of books published by Prima Pet.)
Shark Cartilage
"Researchers have reported a link between
blood vessel growth and the development of
arthritis. In the joint fluid of arthritic
pets, there is an increasing amount of a
chemical called endothelial cell-stimulating
angiogenic factor. This chemical encourages
growth of new blood vessels in the arthritic
joint. It is theorized that by inhibiting
new blood vessel growth, further degeneration
of cartilage might be prevented.
"In the laboratory, shark cartilage
has long been shown to contain chemicals
that inhibit blood vessel formation.
Because
arthritis is an inflammatory condition,
and
inflammation requires blood vessels,
it has
been suggested that shark cartilage
can benefit
arthritic pets by inhibiting the formation
of new blood vessels. And in fact,
research
has shown this to be the case. In studies
in both people and in dogs, significant
improvement
is seen in patients suffering from
arthritis.
Arthritic pets and people taking shark
cartilage
supplements often experience increased
mobility
and decreased pain.
"In one study, 8 of 10 dogs showed improvement
when treated at a dosage of 750 mg per 5
kg of body weight for 3 weeks. Improvement
was defined as no continuing lameness, lack
of swelling and pain, and improved movement.
When treatment was temporarily discontinued,
pain and lameness returned.
"....As a result of studies such
as
this one, many veterinarians feel it
prudent
to prescribe shark cartilage, as the
supplement
can be beneficial in some pets with
arthritis
and can substitute for therapy with
medications
like NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs) that have potential side effects."
In comparison to bovine cartilage,
Dr. Messonnier
points out:
"Like shark cartilage, bovine
cartilage
is high in glycosaminoglycans that
can help
the body repair damaged joints. Since
shark
cartilage was found to be 1,000 times more effective in preventing
new blood vessel growth, it has replaced bovine cartilage as a supplement
for many doctors."
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This document is maintained by
Sea Starr Animal Health, Inc.