Nutritional Joint Care Supplements: Closing the Gap Between Science and Fiction

Joint-care supplements are widely used in both human and animal athletes, yet the scientific evidence supporting many products often falls behind their marketing claims. This presentation explores the evidence for interactions between nutritional interventions and cartilage health, inflammation, and long-term joint function. Drawing on research from horses and companion animals, we will explore how joints respond to mechanical stress and how nutritional compounds may modify those responses. Particular attention will be given to methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) and other commonly used ingredients, including omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine-based nutraceutical products, and plant-based anti-inflammatory compounds. The presentation will highlight the biological mechanisms and scientific evidence behind these compounds while distinguishing established science from speculation, helping bridge the gap between research, industry claims, and practical application.