Chrondroitin Benefits & Information

Chondroitin, or condroitin sulfate, is a substance that occurs naturally in the body. It is part of a large protein molecule known as a proteoglycan, and its role is to provide elasticity to bone cartilage. The cartilage matrix, or cushion between joints, is made of proteoglycans, which consist in large part of condroitin sulfate. Condroitin works by holding water and nutrients in cartilage and giving it structure. This is an important property, since cartilage has no blood supply.

Basically, condroitin is the material that lubricates joints and maintains healthy cartilage tissue. When cartilage between bones wears away, condroitin is lost, and painful symptoms of osteoarthritis result. Chondroitin sulfate supplements may be useful as a remedy for this painful condition.

The chondroitin found in most health food stores is derived from animal products. Shark cartilage is a popular source of condroitin sulfate. Studies show that people with mild to moderate osteoarthritis can benefit from condroitin supplements, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects similar to medications like aspirin, ibuprofen and NSAIDS.

Since condroitin is a natural substance, it appears to have fewer side effects than long-term use of anti-inflammatory drugs, which can cause significant stomach irritation and gastrointestinal disturbances. This is a significant benefit. Condroitin supplements may also slow the process by which cartilage breaks down, preventing further damage and pain in joints by preventing enzymes in the body from breaking down the building blocks of cartilage.

If you are considering condroitin supplements to ease joint pain, it is important to be sure that the pain is being caused by osteoarthritis and not some other condition. Condroitin supplements can be taken with other medications prescribed for osteoarthritis, but it will often decrease or eliminate the need for other pain relievers. Consult with your physician before taking condroitin supplements to determine whether other medications should be adjusted or eliminated.

The content of condroitin supplements tends to vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. It is often used as part of a formula that includes other substances as well, most commonly, glucosamine and manganese. Read the label to be sure that you are aware of the ingredients contained in the supplement or formula you are using.

The dosage of condroitin sulfate used in most definitive studies is 1200 mg per day. Tablets of condroitin are often available in strengths of 400 mg or 800 mg. The recommended dose is generally one or two tablets a day. Condroitin sulfate supplements should be taken for six to eight weeks to determine whether they are effective in any given case of osteoarthritis.

Chrondriotin Side Effects

Some side effects have been reported with the use of chondroitin supplements. Gas and bloating, as well as softened stools are the most common. These symptoms may be more related to the brand of condroitin used than to the condroitin itself. If side effects are experienced, switching brands may solve the problem.

Since studies have not been performed to determine the safety of condroitin supplements for children and pregnant women, neither group should use the supplements. Also, condroitin has a blood thinning effect, so people who are taking condroitin while on anticoagulant medications or aspirin therapy should be carefully monitored.

I've used glucosamine/chrondroitin products for years, and have always found them very helpful. I've recommended to my weight training buddies, and my mom takes it for her arthritis. It's a great supplement.

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