Chondroitin Sulfate and Glucosamine are natural substance found in our bodies. Glucosamine plays an important role in cartilage formation. Chondrotin sulfate is a type of molecular protein that makes cartilage elastic.

There are nutritional supplements that provide both Chondroitin sulfate and Glucosamine. Crabs, lobster or shrimp cells are sources of Glucosamine, while shark cartilage and tracheas are the number one source of Chondroitin.

 

Their Functions

Studies show that people with moderate Osteoarthritis who are taking these substances experience noticeable relief from pain. Studies have proven that Glucosamine and Chondroitin are as effective as aspirin and ibuprofen or NSAIDs in relieving osteoarthritic pain.

Another benefit of Chondroitin and Glucosamine is that they can slow cartilage damage in patients with osteoarthritis.

How to Take Them as Supplements

Since dietary supplements are not regulated, the content and quality can vary widely. If you decide to take these supplements, you should consider the following tips:

You should only buy these supplements from a well-established company that has accountability for the supplement. You need to check the product label carefully and make sure that the ingredients that are listed at the back of the bottle are the supplements that you need. You can ask your pharmacist to help you evaluate the supplement bottle.

Talk to your doctor. If you have a medical condition, like osteoarthritis, ask your doctor before taking any supplements.  You also need to make sure that the cause of your pain is arthritis, which your doctor can tell you.

Do not reduce or stop your current prescribed medicine without consulting your doctor. Remember that these are only supplements, and ceasing your current prescriptions is not a wise action.

 

How to Take Them

As advised, you need to consult your doctor before taking the Glucosamine and Chondroitin supplements. If your doctor approves these supplements, he will provide you with dosage information.  The average doses are 1,500 mg/day of Glucosamine and 1,200 mg/day for Chondroitin. These supplements are normally taken for six to eight weeks in addition to your current medication.

 

Side Effects of These Supplements

One of the most common side effects of Glucosamine and Chondroitin supplements are having a softened stool and increase in intestinal gas.

 

Caution

Pregnant women, lactating mothers, children and women who expect to become pregnant are not allowed to take these supplements.

Diabetic patients are also not allowed to take these because of the supplement’s composition of amino sugar.

If you have a food allergy to shellfish, you should consult your physician before taking this natural medication for arthritis.