Benefits of Green-Lipped Mussels for my Dog’s Joint Health
What is green-lipped mussel (GLM), and how can it help my dog? First, some background. The green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus) is a mollusk packed full of nutrients. They are found only in the pristine temperate waters of New Zealand. The coastal-dwelling Maori are the indigenous people of New Zealand. They consume the meat of these mussels as food and have done so for many hundreds of years. Research has revealed that Maoris, who eat a regular diet of mussels, have an extremely low incidence of arthritis. This is not the case for Maoris, who live inland and don’t eat the mussels.
In short, Researchers at Clemson University found GLM contains a high level of omega-3 and other fatty acids, as well as other naturally occurring compounds. The compounds in GLM can improve joint lubrication, reduce inflammation, stiffness, and joint pain, and improve your dog’s mobility. GLM is also one of the best natural sources of eicosatetraenoic Acid (ETA). ETA is an ingredient that has been shown to provide equivalent pain relief to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
GLM is also a potent source of Omega-3, fatty acids, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. All of these aid with skin, organs, and disease prevention. Scientific research has determined that the marine fatty acids found in the green-lipped mussel have an exceptional ability to create a healthy response to inflammation.
Mussel farming is one of the largest segments of NZ aquaculture industry. As a consequence, GLM farming is closely regulated by the NZ government. the same time, mussel harvesting is one of the most eco-friendly and sustainable processes in the world. How the mussels are processed once they are harvested has a significant impact on the potency of the omega three fatty acids. Low-temperature processing is the key to preserving the integrity of the unique marine lipids in the GLM.
Several long-chain polyunsaturated marine fatty acids have been isolated from the GLM oil, and cold-pressed from the mussel meat. Both the oil and the powder contain exceptionally high amounts of gamma-linolenic acid, eicosatetraenoic acid (ETA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These are all long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). PUFAs demonstrated have a potent effect on the immune system. Studies have demonstrated they support a healthy response to inflammation.
The proprietary oil extract of the GLM used in Okoa’s “Happy-Go-Puppy” hip and joint health formula uses a unique, patented extraction process. The process retains optimum concentrations of the unique omega 3 PUFAs. Due to the unique way this mussel oil is cold-processed, it contains up to 5 times more PUFAs than freeze-dried GLM supplements.
The GLM powder in Okoa’s mobility chews is derived from the same GLM source as the GLM oil. It is cold-processed by a unique, proprietary, patented method. The method preserves the delicate long-chain omega 3 polyunsaturated oils and all the major classes of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). GAGs are the primary components of cartilage and the synovial fluid that make up the joint structure. Examples of GAGs that are commonly known are glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate. They help make cartilage in the joint strong yet flexible, elastic, and slippery. These characteristics facilitate healthy function and smooth movement in joints.
In summary, a significant volume of research supports the benefits GLM oil and powder in dogs as a supplement for joint and hip health. If your dog is getting on in years, or has any discomfort, supplementing with GLM can help keep them healthy, happy and moving comfortably.
