Studies show that a high percentage of adults and children in North America and other developed countries eat less than the minimum daily allowance of 10 or more essential nutrients. Adequate amounts and proper balance of these nutrients are needed not only for maintaining good health, but also for the dietary management and prevention of chronic diseases. Chondroitin, a component of bovine cartilage, a glycosaminoglycan formed in the body, is also used for the synthesis and maintenance of connective tissue, primarily within the cartilage matrix. In addition, chondroitin protects existing cartilage by reducing water loss from the matrix and by inhibiting the enzymatic breakdown of the cartilage. The omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA provide a natural counterbalance to the effects of excess omega-6 fatty acids, because they serve as precursors for the anti-inflammatory prostaglandins E 1 and E 3 , and decrease the formation of prostaglandin E 2 and thromboxane A 2 . Thus, a balanced dietary intake of all of these fatty acids appears to be necessary to maintain a normal immune response during inflammation. Native Americans have used yucca, a desert tree that grows in the southwestern United States, for numerous conditions, including the modulation of normal inflammatory processes.. It is thought that the saponins found within the plant are the main beneficial ingredients. Proteolytic enzymes, i.e. proteases, such as those found in bromelain, papain, pepsin, trypsin, and chymotrypsin, are continuously active in reshaping the tissues throughout the body as they participate in the normal wound healing process. They help remove cellular debris, blood clots and scar tissue, thus facilitating the re-growth of healthy tissue. Proteolytic enzymes are also involved in the physiological removal of immune complexes.