RheumaShield from Douglas Laboratories contains 10 mg of native, undenatured type II collagen (UC II) from chicken sternum cartilage.

UC·II is a patented form of undenatured type II collagen. Collagen is a fibrous protein secreted by connective tissue and is the prime structural component of skin, bones and joints. It represents close to 25% of all the body’s protein. Although about 15 types of collagen have been found in various parts of the body, the fibrillar type II collagen is distributed primarily in articular cartilage, i.e. cartilage associated with joints. UC·II is from cartilage that has been sterilized without substantially altering its chemical or molecular structure. This type of collage preparation has been shown to maintain the healthy structure and function of articular joints.Studies have shown that oral administration of native, i.e. undenatured, type II collagen helps support joint health, by a mechanism known as oral tolerance. Oral tolerance is a state of anergy or hyporesponsiveness that follows the exogenous administration of antigen to the peripheral immune system via the gut. Animal studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of oral tolerance.RheumaShield™ may be a useful dietary supplement for individuals who wish to support the structure and function of their body’s joints.

Previous clinical studies in humans have demonstrated positive results on joint health and function following UC-II supplementation. A recently published randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study investigated the effect of UC-II in healthy subjects on knee flexion and joint comfort during and following strenuous exercise. Published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, researchers reported that subjects consuming 40 mg of UC-II daily for 120 days experienced a significant improvement in average knee extension compared with placebo. Subjects in the UC-II group were also able to exercise longer before they reported joint discomfort compared with those in the placebo group. These data continue to support a role for UC-II in supporting joint function and comfort, especially during and after exercise.† Furthermore, a completed clinical trial currently in preparation for publication showed that UC-II is more effective than placebo and glucosamine HCl plus chondroitin sulfate in supporting knee joint function, comfort, and flexibility.†

INDICATIONS Move Active may be a useful dietary supplement for individuals who wish to support the function of their body’s joints with one small capsule daily.