Chondroitin sulphate consists of repeating chains of molecules called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Chondroitin sulphate is a major constituent of cartilage, it provides structural support and helps keep it hydrated so that nutrients can be transported in and out, an important property, as there is no blood supply to cartilage.
What it does
is commonly used to treat a variety of joint conditions, including:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Sports injuries
- Tendinitis
- Bursitis
- Back pain
- Joint Protection and Repair: chondroitin sulfate protects and aids repair of the joint tissue in many ways, including stimulating the manufacture of the most important compounds in cartilage eg. proteoglycans, collagen and glycoaminoglycans. It helps the cartilage to attract and hold onto water thus improving the shock-absorbing properties of cartilage, and inhibiting enzymes which damage joint tissue.
- Connective Tissue Injury:
Damage to cartilage and soft tissues in and around joints can be due to arthritis, but also sports injury, heavy lifting or manual work. Chondrocytes in the joint use chondroitin to produce tissue rebuilding compounds. - Vascular Health: Arteries need to withstand the increase in blood pressure as the heart contracts and pumps blood along the arterial system. The walls of the aorta (the main artery from the heart supplying blood to the body) contain glycosaminoglycans which provide the aorta with support and elasticity as well as protection and help to repair. Glycosaminoglycans are also essential for the integrity of the vein walls. If venous tissue is weak and does not provide the proper support, the veins bulge.
Potential Uses
| Osteoarthritis | Atherosclerosis | Coronary artery disease |
Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate
Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are two supplements that are often taken together to improve joint health. Glucosamine is a natural substance that helps the body to produce cartilage. Chondroitin sulfate helps to protect and repair cartilage.
Some studies have shown that taking glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate together is more effective than taking either supplement alone. However, more research is needed to confirm this finding.
Chondroitin sulfate benefits
Chondroitin sulfate has been shown to have a number of benefits for joint health, including:
- Reducing joint pain and inflammation
- Improving joint function
- Slowing the progression of osteoarthritis
- Reducing the need for joint replacement surgery
How to take chondroitin sulfate?
Chondroitin sulfate is available as a dietary supplement in capsule, powder, and liquid form. It is important to follow the directions on the product label.
The recommended dosage of chondroitin sulfate varies depending on the condition being treated. However, most studies have used a dosage of 800-1200 mg per day.
Chondroitin sulfate can be taken with or without food. It is best to take it at the same time each day to avoid forgetting.
Chondroitin sulfate dosage
The recommended dosage of chondroitin sulfate varies depending on the condition being treated. However, most studies have used a dosage of 800-1200 mg per day.
If you are considering taking chondroitin sulfate, it is important to talk to your doctor first. They can help you determine if chondroitin sulfate is right for you and can recommend the appropriate dosage.
Cautions
At the time of writing there were no well known negative drug interactions with Chondroitin.
Generally, there are no side effects or contra-indications from using Chondroitin.
If you take warfarin, check with your doctor before taking chondroitin as it may increase bleeding.
Conclusion
Chondroitin sulfate is a natural supplement that has been shown to be effective in improving joint health and reducing joint pain. It is generally well-tolerated and has few side effects.
If you are considering taking chondroitin sulfate, it is important to talk to your doctor first. They can help you determine if chondroitin sulfate is right for you and can recommend the appropriate dosage.
