What are green-lipped mussels?
Green-lipped mussels (scientific name Perna canaliculus) are a dietary staple of people indigenous to New Zealand’s coasts, who have been recognized to have a lower incidence of arthritis compared to other populations of people.[1] As a result, research has been ongoing to determine what is special about green-lipped mussels which may be contributing to lower rates of arthritis.
What do green-lipped mussels contain that make them special?
Similar to fish oil, green-lipped mussels contain omega-3 fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which support the body’s production of anti-inflammatory mediators, reducing inflammation body-wide.[1] Green-lipped mussels also contain other fat components that support the body’s ability to fight inflammation, such as furan fatty acids (F-acids) and phytosterols.[1][2] Additionally, green-lipped mussels contain antioxidant compounds, such as carotenoids and flavonoids, that support the body’s ability to protect itself against free radical damage.[1][2] These compounds are likely formed in marine algae and then accumulate in the mussels that use algae as a food source.[1]
How do green-lipped mussels support joint health?
In dogs with arthritis, there is an increase in joint cartilage destruction and a reduction in joint cartilage production. Just like fish oil, green-lipped mussels support joints by helping to normalize inflammatory pathways and reduce joint cartilage damage.[1] In addition, the antioxidant components of green-lipped mussel can support joint cartilage by helping fight against free radical damage.[1]
As a result of damage to joint cartilage and inflammatory-mediated pain, dogs with arthritis show discomfort, reduced mobility, and lameness. Several high quality studies have evaluated green-lipped mussel supplementation in arthritic dogs, showing improvements in signs of arthritis, such as pain and lameness.[1][3]
What should I consider when starting green-lipped mussel supplementation?
When considering green-lipped mussel supplementation to help a dog with arthritis, you must consider supplement quality and dose. Studies have shown that how green-lipped mussel supplements are extracted can affect the body’s ability to absorb and use the beneficial components. [1] [4] In addition, studies in arthritic dogs have shown that it may take 6-12 weeks to see the most beneficial effects from this supplement. [1] [3]
References
- Eason CT, Adams SL, Puddick J, et al. Greenshell™ Mussels: A Review of Veterinary Trials and Future Research Directions. Vet Sci. 2018;5(2):36. Published 2018 Mar 27. doi:10.3390/vetsci5020036
- Wakimoto T, Kondo H, Nii H, et al. Furan fatty acid as an anti-inflammatory component from the green-lipped mussel Perna canaliculus. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2011;108(42):17533-17537. doi:10.1073/pnas.1110577108
- Barbeau-Grégoire M, Otis C, Cournoyer A, Moreau M, Lussier B, Troncy E. A 2022 Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Enriched Therapeutic Diets and Nutraceuticals in Canine and Feline Osteoarthritis. Int J Mol Sci. 2022;23(18):10384. Published 2022 Sep 8. doi:10.3390/ijms231810384
- Miller MR, Kruger MC, Wynne C, et al. Bioavailability of Orally Administered Active Lipid Compounds from four Different Greenshell™ Mussel Formats. Mar Drugs. 2020;18(11):524. Published 2020 Oct 23. doi:10.3390/md18110524
Dr. Erin Miscioscia, DVM DACVSMR CVA
