Glucosamine Chondroitin Arthritis

Glucosamine chondroitin arthritis, many people have heard of these supplements and wonder how helpful they are. Many claim to have found success in relieving arthritis symptoms by taking these supplements daily.But what exactly are these supplements and what do they do?

Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are natural substances found in and around the cells of cartilage in the body. Glucosamine is an amino sugar that the body produces and distributes in cartilage and other connective tissue, and chondroitin sulfate is a complex carbohydrate that helps cartilage retain water. Since our joints are surrounded by cartilage you can see why it is important to the healthy function of our joints.

The breakdown of cartilage in the joints is a major factor in osteoarthritis and researchers have been focusing their attention on finding substances to prevent this breakdown. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfates are two nutritional supplements currently being studied to determine their usefulness in treating osteoarthritis.

Research for Glucosamine Chondroitin Arthritis

In a double blind study coordinated by The University of Utah, School of Medicine, a subset of participants with moderate-to-severe pain, were givenglucosamine combined with chondroitin sulfate. The study showed statistically significant pain relief compared with placebo.

The dosage used in this study was glucosamine: 500 mg three times a day for a total of 1500 mg, chondroitin sulfate: 400 mg three times a day for a total of 1200 mg.

Taking these supplements can be helpful in reducing pain, however, they can take a while to take effect, so be patient and consistent and you may find the results were worth your effort.

Warnings

Since glucosamine supplements may be made from shellfish, people with allergies to shellfish should avoid using glucosamine unless you have confirmed that it is from a non-shellfish source. You may have to call the manufacturer to find out since this likely won't be printed on the label.

If you are diabetic, you may want to use caution taking glucosamine as it could possibly alter blood sugar levels.

Before you try supplementing with these check with your health-care provider to make sure these supplements are appropriate for you.