This formula addresses the unique nutritional needs of intervertebral cartilage (IVC). IVC is avascular, wears differently, and is affected by different nutritional factors compared to articular cartilage. The basics of healthy disc composition involve glucosamine, chondroitin and collagen. Glucosamine supports spinal disc integrity and has the potential to support the strength of the disc under compressive loads. In postmenopausal women, the healthy composition of the lumbar spine is directly related to collagen content. This formula may also support healthy advanced glycation end product activity, healthy immune mediator activity and healthy calcium metabolism. Advanced glycation end products may reduce the ability of the intervertebral disc to produce proteoglycans, which comprise healthy disc matrix. The age-related increase in advanced glycation end products also contributes to stiffening of the spine. l-Carnosine, grape seed extract and alpha lipoic acid help to maintain healthy advanced glycation end product metabolism and provide antioxidant protection. Cartilage end plate calcification also affects disc function and longevity. Vitamin K₂ as menaquinone-7 also maintains a healthy balance of calcium uptake into extra-skeletal tissues. Devil's claw supports day-to-day spinal comfort and flexibility as demonstrated by German studies, while boswellia offers key support for musculoskeletal comfort.