Avocado and Soybean Unsaponifiables: Nature’s Secret Dog Arthritis Remedy

Nature has its many secret remedies. Who knew that avocadoes and soybeans could be good for arthritis?
The leading and most trusted publication on arthritis, The Journal of Rheumatology,” published a study by a Belgian university on the beneficial effects of avocado and soybean unsaponfiables or ASU on arthritic patients last August 2003. The article mentioned that ASU could increase the production of aggrecans.

Aggrecans are molecules that hold on to water molecules. This action keeps the cartilage tissue spongy, enabling to absorb mechanical forces. When aggrecan production is low, the cartilage tissue becomes dry and can be easily eroded by friction caused when the joints are moving.

There were other clinical studies that revealed the other benefits of ASU. A three-month study showed that patients taking ASU relied much less on pain medication. This is a breakthrough in arthritis treatment since many of these pain medications are very potent and have dangerous side effects. Another study, which was carried out over six-months supported the results of the three-month study. Clinical tests showed that patients treated with ASU felt less pain compared to those treated with a placebo.

The longest of these studies aimed at studying the long-term benefits of ASU use was over a two-year period. Arthritic patients were given ASU and the results of this study revealed less joint space narrowing and healthier cartilage.

The positive results of these studies have made vets consider that ASU can be effective treatment for dog arthritis. In fact, there are now many dietary supplements containing ASU are specifically formulated for dogs. One of the more trusted brands by vets is Maximize ASU. It lists ASU as its main active component; thus, it contains more ASU compared to other products. It is a common practice to use an ASU supplement with other supplements such as GlycanAid or Dasuquin.

Although avocadoes are toxic to dogs, ASU has been found to be very safe. There are no known side effects. Nonetheless some precautions should be considered. Firstly, ASU may interact with levothyroxine, warfarin and may affect iron absorption. Secondly, an allergic reaction should never be ruled out so owners should keep a vigilant eye on a pet being treated with ASU. An allergic reaction most likely will manifest as digestive problems. Before administering any ASU supplement always talk to your vet first.