Glucosamine + Chondroitin: Useful for Arthritis and Joints

Glucosamine and chondroitin are two naturally occurring compounds within cartilage. Cartilage is a main type of connective tissue in the body. One of the many important purposes of cartilage is to protect and soften the ends of bones, which is why it is found in joints. In people with osteoarthritis, this cartilage wears down, causing the bones to rub together. Over time, this can lead to pain and reduced joint mobility, with this negative effect most commonly seen in the knees, hips, hands, and spine.

Glucosamine and chondroitin, usually taken combined in the same supplement, are helpful in relieving arthritis pain by acting as a natural anti-inflammatory and preventing cartilage wear and tear. More than 3.6% of the global population use combined glucosamine and chondroitin supplements to reduce osteoarthritis pain.

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There are several studies available on the use of glucosamine and chondroitin for osteoarthritis pain, although they have conflicting findings on the effectiveness of the supplements.

• Glucosamine

Glucosamine has been studied extensively for osteoarthritis pain management.

A 2018 analysis showed some improvements in knee osteoarthritis pain with regular use of glucosamine sulfate.

Additionally, a 2-year cohort study found that taking 1,500 mg of crystalline glucosamine daily reduced pain by 36% when used with a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug.

According to another study, a 2-year study of 407 overweight women aged 50-60 found that taking 1,500 mg/day of glucosamine significantly reduced knee osteoarthritis pain.

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• Chondroitin

Chondroitin has also been well studied for reducing osteoarthritis symptoms.

A 2017 double-blind study in 604 people with chronic knee pain took chondroitin sulfate at 800 mg/day and compared the effects of taking chondroitin sulfate with a placebo on osteoarthritis pain management.

After 6 months of chondroitin use the authors concluded that chondroitin sulfate may be an effective pain reliever for people with knee osteoarthritis pain.

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Although both can be taken separately, glucosamine and chondroitin are usually taken as a single supplement. This combination has been studied more extensively.

A 2018 study found significant improvement in pain when glucosamine and chondroitin were taken together, while no improvement was found when taking the supplements separately.

Similarly, a 2015 sponsored study showed that taking 1,500 mg of glucosamine hydrochloride combined with 1,200 mg of chondroitin sulfate effectively reduced knee osteoarthritis pain, stiffness, and swelling.

Another 2015 study also found that combined glucosamine and chondroitin supplements were comparably effective.

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Most studies have shown that both glucosamine and chondroitin are safe to use for most people and no serious side effects have been reported. Only mild side effects such as stomach upset, nausea and headache have been observed.

Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements may affect blood sugar levels, reduce insulin sensitivity, and interact with anticoagulant medications such as warfarin. That is why you must consult your doctor before taking them.

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Glucosamine and chondroitin are popular supplements used to reduce osteoarthritis pain. Some studies have shown that taking glucosamine and chondroitin supplements can reduce pain and stiffness, others have found that they provide no benefit.

The supplements are safe for most people, just need to be careful when consuming shellfish in those who have diabetes or metabolic disorders, or are taking anticoagulant medications. If you're considering taking glucosamine and chondroitin together, talk to a doctor first.