Cetyl myristoleate, an oil, is a naturally occurring hexadecyl ester of the unsaturated fatty acid cis-9-tetradecenoic acid. Since its discovery, it has been found to work as an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever, which makes it beneficial to arthritis sufferers, including dogs, horses and humans; however, no testing has been done to discover the effect of the substance on osteoporosis.
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History
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Harry Diehl was a chemist who spent 40 years at the National Institutes of Health. Diehl discovered that lab mice were immune to arthritis and in subsequent research often performed on his own time, he discovered cetyl myristoleate was the cause.
Features
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Cetyl myristoleate occurs naturally only in mice, sperm whales and beavers, but it can be produced synthetically, according to the Harry Diehl website.
Function
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Clinical trials have shown cetyl myristoleate to be useful in treating osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriasis, back pain and a number of other inflammatory ailments. Cetyl myristoleate promotes the growth of cartilage cells in addition to working as an anti-inflammatory. It is sold as an oral supplement and a topical cream.
Osteoporosis
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According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, osteoporosis is a disease in which bones lose their mass and become fragile, resulting in a high occurrence of fractures. Postmenopausal women are particularly susceptible.
Osteoporosis Risk Factors
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Some risk factors for osteoporosis include being white, female, a smoker and an excessive drinker; having a family history of the condition; and presenting with diseases such as anorexia nervosa and rheumatoid arthritis.
Conclusion
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Cetyl myristoleate is effective for cartilage and joint health, but it has not been studied for its effect on osteoporosis. Studies pertaining to the treatment of osteoporosis have focused more on calcium, vitamin D and other substances thought to increase bone strength and density.
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