Study Utilizes New "Gold Standard" Biodex Technology Measurements

DALLAS, TX -- (INTERNET WIRE) -- 09/29/00 -- A gelatine-based dietary supplement can help improve knee function in people with mild osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee, according to a new study presented today as an original research paper at the American Academy of Family Physicians Scientific Assembly. (Note: The views expressed by the presenter are not necessarily those of the AAFP.) This comes as terrific news for the more than 20 million Americans that are estimated to suffer from OA, a disease that can limit many activities for people who have it.

Results of the study varied, but those in the gelatine supplement group did show an improvement in knee function and strength compared with those in the placebo group. According to Dr. James Rippe, lead researcher of the study, "These results suggest that gelatine supplementation has the potential to improve knee function during activities which place a high amount of stress on the joint, like walking or jogging. They also encourage further research to evaluate the long-term benefits of this type of treatment."

This study used Knox NutraJoint, a gelatine-based dietary supplement that contains 10 grams of hydrolyzed gelatine from collagen per serving plus seven key nutrients included to help renew and protect joints and bones. Clinical research suggests that the amino acids in collagen hydrolysate, or gelatine, are used by the body as it synthesizes cartilage, whose firm structure is needed for healthy, flexible joints. Gelatine has a long history of safe use and no known side effects.

"Knox NutraJoint is easy to take and is available in the joint supplement aisle in most supermarkets, drugstores and pharmacies, and mass merchandise stores, making it an easy option for people with an interest in joint health." Said Everette Fortner, vice president and general manager of the Knox Company, a division of Nabisco, Inc. "We are committed to conducting research to further investigate the role of gelatine in joint health, and have been delighted to support Dr. Rippe's efforts in this new and exciting area."

"Reduced knee functioning is usually caused by the excessive wearing away of the cartilage in the knee joint, which causes bones to rub against each other. The ultimate goal is to halt this action and rebuild the cartilage in the knee," added Dr. Rippe. "Insoluble collagen makes up a majority of joint cartilage, and it has been theorized that new options should use ingredients like gelatine that promote the health of the collagen, therefore improving overall joint health."

The study was a 14-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial of 175 individuals, aged 40 to 80 years old with symptoms of mild osteoarthritis of the knee. About 46% of them received the Knox NutraJoint everyday in powder form, which was added to a non-alcoholic, non-carbonated beverage. The remaining 54% received a placebo powder.

To assess joint strength and work performance, a series of isokinetic and isometric leg strength tests were performed using the new Biodex Multi-Joint System B2000, an extremely sensitive test that produces very accurate results. Biodex is considered by some researchers to be the new "gold standard" of measuring joint strength and work performance. Walking tests and questionnaires were also used to measure pain, stiffness and mobility.

Since the introduction of Knox Gelatine over 100 years ago, the Knox name has been one that consumers can trust. The entire line of Knox products, including Knox Gelatine, Knox NutraJoint and Knox NutraJoint Plus Glucosamine are currently available at select supermarkets, grocery stores, drug chains, and mass merchandisers nationwide. For more information and a free newsletter, visit the official Knox web site at www.nutrajoint.com or call toll free 1-800-KNOX-GEL.

"It's important that consumers who are considering using a dietary supplement read labels carefully," said Dr. Rippe, "and the best way to know that you're getting the nutrients that you want from a supplement is to buy only from reputable companies that you trust, like Knox."

The Knox Company is a subsidiary of Nabisco, Inc. Nabisco is a major international manufacturer of biscuits, snacks, and premium grocery products, including such well-known U.S. brands as Oreo, SnackWell's, and Chips Ahoy!; Ritz crackers; A.1. steak sauces; Grey Poupon mustards; Life Savers confections; and Planters nuts and snacks. International products include Christie, Peek Freans, Terrabusi cookies and crackers; Yemina pastas; Royal dessert mixes; Fleischmann's yeast; and several Nabisco global brands - Oreo, Ritz and Chips Ahoy!. Nabisco markets products in the United States, Canada and more than 85 other countries around the world.

For more information on Osteoarthritis, please visit www.arthritis.org.