Glucosamine Chondroitin

Glucosamine Chondroitin

Glucosamine, which is produced naturally in the body, plays a key role in building cartilage, the tough connective tissue that cushions the joints. It has been found to provide relief of joint pain, improve joint function and mobility, reduces joint swelling and stiffnes, and provide symptom relief (not cure, treatment or prevention) to people suffering of osteoarthritis (OA).

Clinical studies suggest that glucosamine may be effective to relief joint pain due to injury or to normal wear and tear. Joint pain commonly occurs in older adults, as well as among people who participate in sports or athletic activities. Glucosamine is often taken with chondroitin, another supplement thought to be effective in relieving joint pain and counter the effects of cartilage loss.

  Chondroitin is a substance found in the connective tissues located in the bone and cartilage of humans. A derivative of the material, or chondroitin sulfate, is a well known supplement for treating osteoarthritis. 

Glucosamine Chondroitin supplements are commonly indicated for osteoarthritis sufferers, as both nutrients are helpful in treating or minimizing any joint pain or discomfort. Not only do they improve joint functioning in humans, glucosamine chondroitin blends are also used to reduce joint pain in dogs. When taking the supplement for osteoarthritis, it typically takes from one to a couple months before symptoms begin to subside.

Glucosamine Chondroitin that Melts in Your Mouth - No Water Needed

Additional Information

Side Effects of Glucosamine Chondroitin

Glucosamine has shown remarkable results in clinical trials; but there are a few side effects to expect which include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, irregular heartbeat, hair loss and digestive disturbances. There are incidences however where some people have suffered serious side effects such as ocular hypertension, which creates high pressure in the eye due to use of Chondroitin in the eye. People who have allergic reaction to shellfish should not take glucosamine. Diabetic patients also need to be careful as it may raise levels of insulin in the blood. Patients taking anticoagulants should use glucosamine only after discussing with their doctor. 

Side effects while taking a glucosamine chondroitin supplement may include mild digestive disturbances. Because of lack of research data, it is suggested that pregnant, lactating women or children not use glucosamine chondroitin as a supplement. In addition, anyone taking blood thinners or individuals with hemophilia should not take the supplement at all until they first consult with a health professional. While nothing has been reported with respect to allergic side effects, you should stop taking glucosamine chondroitin if you experience shortness of breath or breakouts, such as hives or rash.

Chondroitin Benefits

Chondroitin helps reduce problems in joints, particularly in the hip and knee areas that result from injuries and aging conditions such as osteoarthritis.  It is supposed to reduce swelling and pain, improve the function and mobility of the joints, and it is claimed that these results can be seen up to three months after the supplement use is discontinued by the individual. Chondroitin has also been studied in its role to help with bladder conditions such as interstitial cystitis and provide assistance for those with an overactive bladder.

Chondroitin Dosage

Since Chondroitin may not be found in our regular food supply, supplements become inevitable with a recommended intake of 400 milligrams taken three times a day or 600 milligrams taken twice a day for adults. Chondroitin supplements are not recommended for use in children because no pediatric studies have proven the extent to which children can use these supplements. As a consumer you are advised to take care when using supplement products containing manganese, keep the daily intake of manganese to no more than 11 milligrams.

Side Effects of Chondroitin

Chondroitin does not come with many side effects, though users are likely to experience a slight stomach upset at the beginning of usage. It is recommended that pregnant and breast-feeding women should not take Chondroitin because no studies have been done to prove the safety on both the mother and child.  There are also indications that Chondroitian could have certain effects on people taking blood thinning medications since Chondroitian is also known to enhance the blood thinning abilities. While no decisions regarding Chondroitin have been officially made, the product is still in the market with many people using it for joint problems.