Chondroitin
Chondroitin sulfate is a chemical found in the cartilage around joints. (1) It is a significant component of cartilage, which provides structure, holds water and nutrients, and may make joints more flexible.
According to Max Whitmore from Livestrong “Glucosamine and chondroitin are often combined in a dietary supplement. You can also buy them in individual supplements in the form of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate”. (2)
There are several types of supplements that combine chondroitin with other substances such as glucosamine. Chondroitin sulfate is man-made, but chondroitin itself comes from the cartilage of sharks, cows and pigs. The best way to get chondroitin from food is by consuming bone broth.
Chondroitin may help
- Reduce inflammation associated with osteoarthritis
- Maintain healthy joints
- Heal burns
What are the benefits?
1) Reduce swelling and pain in osteoarthritis
It draws fluid and nutrients into the joint cartilage, which may reduce the pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and could help to heal the joint over time. Chondroitin can take up to 6 months to reduce joint symptoms and may not work for everyone.
2) Maintaining healthy joints
Chondroitin can reduce joint inflammation and preserve cartilage, which can minimise the wear and tear of joints over time. It can also benefit people who exercise regularly by increasing their range of movement.
3) Helping burns to heal better
A study tested how chondroitin affected burns with skin grafts. According to the results, the chondroitin gel quickened the healing process, perhaps by helping to regulate inflammation. (3)
Chondroitin works well with
- Glucosamine to rebuild cartilage
- Vitamin C to produce collagen for rebuilding cartilage
- Manganese in conjunction with glucosamine
- Rose Hips to reduce inflammation
Some things to consider
Chondroitin doesn’t work for everyone, and it’s essential to invest in a quality product.
Consult your doctor before taking any supplements. To improve joint pain, swelling and promote healthier joints as much as possible, combine any supplements with appropriate exercise and a healthy diet.
Doses
- Chondroitin sulfate – 400 milligrams three times a day
- Glucosamine – 500 milligrams three times a day
- Both together – 1,200 milligrams and 1,500 milligrams daily
Resources
Last accessed online 13/03/2020
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-744/chondroitin-sulfate
- https://www.livestrong.com/article/444794-normal-dosage-of-glucosamine-chondroitin/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16908060
