Study supports Vertebene for spine function
"The rationale for using the specific mix of nutritional substances including collagen type II, hyaluronic acid, n-acetyl-glucosamine, bamboo extract, L-lysine and vitamin C is the assumption that combining naturally occurring ingredients of the intervertebral disc would maintain spine function," the team of Austrian researchers wrote in the journal Nutrients.
The study, funded by Austrian supplement manufacturer Natural Products & Drugs GmbH, investigated the effects of the company's Vertebene-branded supplement compared to placebo in 50 patients for three months.
Supplements for back pain
Lumbar osteochondrosis, often associated with degeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD), is a significant cause of lower back pain and loss of function.
Its causes are not fully understood but are thought to involve a mix of genetic, anatomical, traumatic, nutritional, inflammatory and metabolic factors.
While some research has shown positive treatment outcomes with nutrition interventions, the researchers on the current study noted that investigations of non-surgical treatment options are rare and that to their knowledge, no published trials have evaluated the effectiveness of such a specific nutritional supplement compared to placebo in a proper randomized trial setting.
Improved back health
Participants with MRI-confirmed lumbar osteochondrosis were recruited and split into two groups, receiving either two daily capsules of Vertebene or a placebo.
Each Vertebene capsule contained 300 mg collagen hydrolysate, 180 mg collagen type II, 90 mg mucopolysaccharides, 30 mg hyaluronic acid, 100 mg n-acetyl-glucosamine, 70 mg bamboo extract, 25 mg L-lysine hydrochloride and 30 mg vitamin C.
Outcomes were collected through self-reported scores questionnaires, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to evaluate degenerative changes of IVD. Data were collected at baseline and after the three month intervention.
None of the report scores were significantly different between the supplement and placebo groups, and disc degeneration remained stable during the intervention in both groups.
However, in-depth evaluations of MRIs showed significantly higher 3D-measured volume changes of disk in the supplement group compared to lower 3D-measured volume changes in the placebo group.
The researchers suggested that all ingredients in the formulation contributed to supporting joint health, bone structure and connective tissue:
- Vitamin C has been found to aid collagen formation, which is crucial for the normal function of cartilage.
- Collagen, the structural protein essential for the strength and flexibility of the vertebrae, cartilage, tendons and ligaments, plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity and function of the spine and joints.
- Hyaluronic acid absorbs large volumes of water, which is important for maintaining the hydration and shock-absorbing function of intervertebral discs. It has also been shown to support smooth joint movement as a key component of synovial fluid.
- Bamboo extract has been found to enhance the elasticity and stability of connective tissue, aiding shock absorption by strengthening the spinal column's ligaments.
- N-acetyl glucosamine is important for water retention in cartilage and intervertebral discs. It has been shown to stimulate cartilage metabolism, reduce inflammation and pain, and maintain a balance between cartilage build-up and degradation.
- Research has shown that L-lysine, an essential amino acid, supports bone and muscle growth, aids in calcium storage in bones, and helps slow down osteoporosis. It also supports the immune system and muscle nitrogen balance.
The result "marks an important step for a better understanding of the clinical relevance of supplements," the authors concluded, adding that further studies should increase the sample size and duration of intervention.
Journal: Nutrients
doi: 10.3390/nu16162695
“A Dietary Supplement in the Management of Patients with Lumbar Osteochondrosis: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Study."
Authors: Laky, B. et al.
