Understanding the Ingredients in Movewell Plus
Movewell Plus is a proprietary blend designed to support joint health, leveraging ingredients like krill oil, hyaluronic acid, and astaxanthin. To understand the potential side effects, it's essential to examine the known properties and risks of each component.
- Antarctic Krill (Euphasia superba) Oil: This oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, and is generally well-tolerated. However, as with other omega-3 supplements like fish oil, it can cause mild gastrointestinal issues, especially in higher doses. Since it is a shellfish, it also carries a risk of allergic reaction for individuals with shellfish allergies.
- Hyaluronic Acid (as Sodium Hyaluronate): A naturally occurring lubricant in the joints, hyaluronic acid is included to support smooth movement. Oral supplementation is widely considered safe, and it has a very low incidence of side effects.
- Zanthin® Natural Astaxanthin: This powerful antioxidant is derived from microalgae and is meant to combat oxidative stress and inflammation. It is generally regarded as safe, and significant side effects are not commonly reported with its use.
Common and Mild Side Effects
Based on the ingredients, most potential side effects from Movewell Plus are mild and often related to digestive processes. The most commonly reported issues with krill oil and other joint supplements include:
- Nausea
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Increased intestinal gas, bloating
- Loose stools, diarrhea, or constipation
- Unpleasant aftertaste or 'fishy burps'
- Mild headaches or drowsiness
- Skin irritation or rashes
These symptoms can often be mitigated by taking the supplement with food and a full glass of water, or by adjusting the dosage in consultation with a healthcare provider. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, discontinuation is recommended.
Potential Allergic Reactions and Drug Interactions
While the mild side effects are the most frequent concern, more serious risks are associated with allergies and potential interactions with other medications. The most significant risk comes from the krill oil component, which is derived from shellfish.
Allergy Warning: Individuals with a known allergy to shellfish (crustaceans, specifically krill) should avoid Movewell Plus. An allergic reaction could manifest as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, requiring immediate medical attention.
Drug Interactions: Certain ingredients in dietary supplements can interact with prescription medications. Krill oil, due to its omega-3 content, can have blood-thinning effects, which may increase the risk of bruising or bleeding when combined with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications such as warfarin. Always consult a healthcare provider before taking Movewell Plus, especially if you are on any blood-thinning medication.
Comparing Movewell Plus to Other Joint Supplements
Different joint supplements contain varying active ingredients, leading to different potential side effects. Here is a comparison of Movewell Plus with a typical glucosamine/chondroitin supplement.
| Feature | Movewell Plus (Live Conscious) | Standard Glucosamine/Chondroitin Supplement |
|---|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Krill Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, Astaxanthin | Glucosamine Sulfate, Chondroitin Sulfate, MSM |
| Common Side Effects | Mild gastrointestinal upset, aftertaste, headache | Mild gastrointestinal upset, gas, bloating, headache |
| Major Allergy Risk | Shellfish allergy due to krill | Shellfish allergy possible (if derived from shellfish) |
| Primary Function | Antioxidant support, lubrication, omega-3 source | Supports cartilage repair and joint structure |
| Blood Thinner Risk | Possible increased bleeding risk with anticoagulants due to omega-3s | Possible increased bleeding risk with anticoagulants |
Important Considerations Before Use
Because the FDA does not evaluate dietary supplements for safety or efficacy, consumers must take proactive steps to ensure their health and safety. Before you start taking Movewell Plus, consider the following:
- Consult Your Physician: This is the most important step. Discuss your current health status, any pre-existing conditions (especially bleeding disorders or glaucoma), and all other medications and supplements you take with a healthcare professional.
- Check for Allergies: Carefully read the label to confirm the krill oil source and ensure you do not have a shellfish allergy.
- Monitor for Symptoms: Start with the recommended dosage and watch for any adverse reactions. If you experience persistent or severe side effects, stop taking the supplement and seek medical advice.
- Be Patient: Effects from joint supplements can take time to become noticeable. Don't increase the dosage unnecessarily, as this may increase the risk of side effects without providing added benefit.
Conclusion
Movewell Plus is a popular joint health supplement that relies on a blend of krill oil, hyaluronic acid, and astaxanthin. While many users report positive experiences and the side effects are typically mild, it is not without risk. Potential issues include common digestive complaints from krill oil and the serious risk of an allergic reaction for individuals with shellfish allergies. As with any dietary supplement, consulting a healthcare provider before starting is critical, especially for those with existing health conditions or who are taking other medications. The lack of strict FDA regulation on supplements means that individual due diligence is required to ensure safe use.
For more information on dietary supplement safety and regulations, consider reviewing resources from authoritative sources like the Federal Trade Commission.
