Most Canadians experience sore joints and muscles from time to time, and for roughly one in five people, the challenge is chronic, lasting for months or longer. Soreness is not “just a pain”, it can significantly affect quality of life. How often have you woken up and skipped a workout or cancelled a sports game because your body simply wasn’t cooperating? Or chosen the escalator instead of the stairs because your joints felt sore or tired?
It’s for reasons like these that an increasing number of Canadians are turning to natural health products (NHPs) to support their health and well-being. According to the Canadian Pharmacists Journal, most Canadians surveyed reported a preference for using NHPs over prescription medications for minor ailments (82%) and chronic health conditions (60%).
At Health First Network-affiliated retailers, you can find a variety of natural joint health products that have been reviewed and approved by Health Canada, as indicated by a Natural Product Number (NPN) on the label. When people think of joint health supplements, ingredients such as glucosamine, curcumin, and collagen often come to mind. But what about minerals?
You may already know that muscle cramps and spasms can sometimes be associated with dehydration or inadequate magnesium intake. But can a mineral supplement help support joint and muscle comfort beyond occasional muscle cramps? Let’s look at the research on a particular mineral complex trade named SierraSil® that earned a patent as a Nutritional Supplement for Osteoarthritis.
Sourced from a hydrothermal mineral deposit in the Sierra Mountains, these minerals are exclusively available through SierraSil Health Inc. of Vancouver, BC. Research on SierraSil® includes several Canadian double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover studies — a clinical trial design widely regarded as one of the strongest methods for evaluating efficacy. Importantly, these studies were conducted with Canadian participants, reflecting lifestyles and dietary habits similar to those of many Canadians.
Research findings include:
If you are currently using a natural joint health supplement and achieving positive results, there may be no reason to change your routine. However, if you are looking for additional support, are interested in the potential sports-performance benefits, or are seeking a more natural approach to supporting joint and muscle comfort, SierraSil Joint Formula14™ may be worth considering.
This Canadian-made supplement is available at many Health First Network-affiliated retailers.
Michael Bentley
Co-Founder, SierraSil Health Inc.
Director, Canadian Health & Fitness Institute