Joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility are common concerns as we age, and they can also affect active individuals earlier in life. In recent years, growing attention has turned to NEM, or Natural Eggshell Membrane, as a clinically researched ingredient used to support joint comfort and mobility.
As pharmacists, we focus on ingredients that are effective at low doses, well tolerated, and supported by human research. NEM meets these criteria, which is why it continues to be used in evidence based joint health formulations.
Understanding natural eggshell membrane
Natural eggshell membrane is the thin layer found inside chicken eggshells. It contains a complex combination of structural compounds that play an important role in joint comfort, flexibility, and connective tissue integrity.
Rather than delivering isolated nutrients, NEM provides these compounds in their natural matrix, similar to how they exist within the body. This whole matrix composition is one of the reasons it has been extensively studied for joint health support.
Key components found in NEM
Natural eggshell membrane contains several compounds relevant to joint health. These include collagen types I, V, and X, which support cartilage and connective tissue structure.
It also contains elastin, which contributes to joint flexibility, as well as glycosaminoglycans such as chondroitin sulphate and hyaluronic acid. In addition, NEM provides amino acids involved in tissue repair and maintenance.
Together, these components support joint comfort, mobility, and long term joint health through multiple complementary pathways.
How NEM supports joint comfort and mobility
One of the most well studied benefits of NEM is its ability to support joint comfort and mobility.
Clinical studies have shown that NEM can help reduce joint pain and stiffness, with some individuals noticing improvements within seven to ten days. This makes it a practical option for people with osteoarthritis or everyday joint discomfort.
Joint stiffness is often associated with inflammatory processes around the joint. NEM has been shown to help relieve mild joint stiffness in as little as four days, supporting easier and more comfortable movement.
NEM also supports cartilage health. Cartilage acts as a cushion between joints, and the collagen and glycosaminoglycans found in NEM help support cartilage structure, which is essential for long term joint function.
In addition, NEM appears to support a healthy inflammatory response through immune modulation. Rather than acting like a painkiller or anti inflammatory medication, it helps regulate inflammatory pathways associated with joint discomfort.
By supporting connective tissue health and reducing stiffness, NEM may also help improve range of motion and overall joint function, particularly in areas such as the knees, hips, and hands.
How NEM compares with other joint supplements
NEM is often compared with more familiar joint supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, or collagen powders.
One of the key differences is dosage. NEM is effective at a relatively low daily dose, typically around 300 mg. It has also been shown to act more quickly than many traditional joint supplements, with benefits sometimes noticed within days rather than months.
NEM is generally well tolerated and considered gentle on digestion. Because it delivers a naturally occurring matrix of joint supporting compounds, it offers a broader approach than single nutrient supplements.
Who may benefit from NEM?
NEM may be suitable for adults with osteoarthritis, people experiencing age related joint stiffness, and active individuals with exercise related joint wear.
It may also be an option for those who do not tolerate glucosamine or high dose collagen supplements well.
Safety considerations
NEM is well studied and generally considered safe when taken as directed.
As NEM is derived from eggs, it is not suitable for individuals with an egg allergy.
Why we use evidence based ingredients at Vitaceuticals
At Vitaceuticals, we prioritise ingredients supported by human research and clear clinical relevance. NEM is backed by clinical studies, requires a low daily dose, and supports joint comfort and mobility in a practical, evidence based way.
For those looking to support joint pain, stiffness, mobility, and cartilage health, NEM is a well researched ingredient worth considering.
Reference
Efficacy and Safety of Natural Eggshell Membrane (NEM) in Patients with Grade 2 and 3 Knee Osteoarthritis
A multi centre, randomised, double blind, placebo controlled, single crossover clinical study
Eskiyurt N, Saridogan M, Senel K, Gunaydin R, Erdal A, Ozyigit E, Akarirmak U, Sendur O F
