Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate

Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate
About 27 million Americans suffer from osteoarthritis, an often painful condition in which erodes the cushioning cartilage between bones. Many people try new therapies and dietary supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate in their search for relief.
Glucosamine is found naturally in the body. It stimulates the formation and repair of articular cartilage. Over-the-counter supplements come from animal sources. Chondroitin sulfate is another natural substance found in the body. It prevents other body enzymes from degrading the building blocks of cartilage. The type sold in health food stores and pharmacies is derived from animal products.

The hope and hype
People who hope to use these food supplements that alleviate the pain of osteoarthritis, and perhaps even repair or restore the articular cartilage. Recent findings seem to support the first claim. Both glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are used in Europe for several years, with few side effects. Both supplements also have some anti-inflammatory effects that may change for pain relief.
But there is no proof that either substance, taken singly or in combination, actually slow the degenerative process or restore cartilage in arthritic joints. All studies conducted to date have been short and focused on pain relief. A longitudinal study has just begun, funded by the National Institute of Arthritis and Muscular and Skin Diseases and the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Dietary supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin not examined or analyzed by the Food and Drug Administration before they are sold to consumers. This means that the consumer be sure they can get what you are looking to purchase if they pay vial "Glucosamine / Chondroitin." In fact, a recent study by ConsumerLab.com showed that almost half of the glucosamine / chondroitin supplements tested did not contain labeled amounts of ingredients.

Ask your doctor
Although many people believe that traditional physicians will dismiss their interest in supplements, many doctors are actually quite open to complementary treatments. However, these supplements are not for all forms of arthritis or for all people. Diabetics and pregnant women, for example, should be particularly careful.


Do not Stop Your current regimen of diet, exercise, medication or other therapies
The efficacy of this treatment has been proven and should remain exactly the complementary food supplements your good health practices. You may need to take the supplements for a few months until all the results, see it all the more important to continue your current treatments.


Do some research to find out first about the supplement you are considering buying. Are there any side effects? Will it interact with your current medication? Write to the manufacturer and ask for documentation that supports their claims. For more information on glucosamine, check the website for the National Institutes of Health


Stick with a reputable manufacturer
Since these products are not regulated, consumers are on their own. Even products labeled "standardized" do not meet outside standards, just apply internally by the manufacturer specified. Standards can vary among manufacturers, so avoid brand names you do not know.

Report adverse effects to your doctor immediately
If something goes wrong and you will experience some side effects, tell your doctor quickly and place the product. Remember that any supplement potent enough to help probably strong enough to damage taken when inappropriate.
Source: AAOS Research Committee fact sheet, arthritis and the Arthritis Foundation