Benefits of Glucosamine Chondroitin | Detailed Explanation

In this article, we are going to thoroughly review the benefits of glucosamine chondroitin along with its usage. Glucosamine and chondroitin are among two of the most well-researched supplements sold over-the-counter for the joint health. They are naturally occurring compounds found in the healthy cartilage, the connective tissue covering the ends of the bones where they meet to form joints. 

By supplying the raw materials that make up the cartilage, glucosamine and chondroitin supplements may help to slow down the cartilage breakdown in the joints affected by osteoarthritis. Numerous studies over the past two decades have shown modest benefits of glucosamine chondroitin in relieving osteoarthritis pain, improving joint mobility and also reducing stiffness. The supplements appear to be as effective as some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that are commonly recommended for arthritis but with fewer side effects. While they may take weeks to have an effect, many with osteoarthritis find that supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin provide long-lasting relief.

Glucosamine Chondroitin Helps Remove Joint Pain

The Arthritis Foundation recommends trying these supplements for at least two to three months to determine whether they relieve joint pain for the individual. They have an excellent safety profile with a very low risk of side effects. Mild gastrointestinal upset may occur occasionally. Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements come in various forms, but medical studies show no significant differences in the efficacy provided a therapeutic daily dosage is met. Following package directions, liquid capsules or tablets are often taken three times daily with meals.

Roles of Glucosamine and Chondroitin

Of the two supplements, glucosamine appears to play the much major role. It's one of the key building blocks needed for cartilage formation. Supplemental glucosamine in forms such as glucosamine sulfate or glucosamine hydrochloride may assist the cartilage-producing cells (chondrocytes) in repairing damaged cartilage within the joints. Chondroitin is often coupled with glucosamine in supplements because there is some evidence that the combination of the two has many synergistic effects in reducing the symptoms.

Four separate meta-analyses over the years that have compiled data from qualifying clinical trials conclude that glucosamine and chondroitin taken together work better than the placebo for mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis pain. Patients note a very diminishing pain along with improved mobility of the affected joint within 2-3 months. The combo may also provide symptom relief for up to a year or longer while slowing the degenerative changes based on imaging studies.

Research and Key Findings

The latest 2017 cumulative analysis appeared in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. The analysis found benefits of glucosamine chondroitin for the ostrich arthritis of the knee as it had a significant reduction in joint space narrowing compared to placebo after 2 years. The supplements appeared to slow the progression of this hallmark sign of the increasing osteoarthritic damage.

Though glucosamine and chondroitin have been formally studied for the treatment of osteoarthritis predominantly in the hip and knee joints, experts believe they likely have similar benefits for the spine, neck and other joints as well since they provide the basic building blocks needed to maintain the cartilage matrix.

Recommended Dosage

The commonly recommended daily dosage for the combination is 1,500 mg glucosamine (typically the hydrochloride or sulfate form) plus 800-1,200 mg chondroitin sulfate It often takes at least 4-8 weeks to notice a difference after starting this regimen. Clinical studies showing the benefits of glucosamine chondroitin have extended over the months and even years, suggesting these cartilage-nourishing supplements have an accumulating, protective effect when taken regularly.

While glucosamine and chondroitin have proven safe for extended usage by most people, those taking anticoagulants or blood thinners should consult their doctor before starting supplements since glucosamine has theoretically blood-thinning effects.

Considerations

As with any supplement, look for reputable brands that are tested to confirm the purity and amounts of the ingredients listed on the label. Glucosamine hydrochloride formulations certified free of impurities like lead, mercury and arsenic through testing by independent laboratories are recommended for optimal safety and also quality assurance.

Conclusion

In summary, the research supports the benefits of glucosamine chondroitin and taking supplementary glucosamine combined with chondroitin reduces the osteoarthritic symptoms, improving mobility and potentially slowing the cartilage destruction. They offer an adjunctive therapy for all ages for joint health which is worth considering. Benefits of glucosamine chondroitin often increase gradually over the first two to three months with improved joint comfort and function sustained over the long- term through continued daily use.