Chronic joint pain in the knees, elbows, and shoulders is a very common issue faced by millions. More often than not, joint pain is caused by osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis. Numerous supplements are available on the market to help alleviate the discomfort associated with joint pain. Among these, glucosamine and chondroitin are very popular options. The article below explores the benefits and side effects of supplementing glucosamine and chondroitin to relieve joint pain.
Glucosamine
What is Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a vital compound found in cartilage, the durable rubbery tissue that ensures joints are properly cushioned to prevent bones from rubbing together and causing friction. The body naturally produces glucosamine and other chemicals that constitute tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and the other essential fluids surrounding the joints to prevent damage. Although glucosamine occurs naturally in the body, its levels decrease as people get older, resulting in faster joint deterioration. Available in supplement form, glucosamine is typically obtained from natural sources and animal tissues such as the shells of shellfish, animal bones, or various fungi.
The Benefits of Glucosamine
The two forms of glucosamine, glucosamine sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride, are popularly used to deal with osteoarthritis along with joint pain, various sclerosis, and other similar conditions. Supplementing glucosamine can help develop healthy tissues that are vital for proper joint functionality. Using chondroitin supplements alongside glucosamine is linked to providing anti-inflammatory benefits that effectively reduce the chances of obtaining potential problems like rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes. Glucosamine may be taken orally as a pill or applied topically as a cream.
The Side Effects of Taking Glucosamine
When taken in appropriate amounts, glucosamine is generally safe. Some side effects of supplementing glucosamine include nausea, headaches, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, drowsiness, and skin reactions. Those with shellfish allergies should ensure that they take a shellfish-free variant of glucosamine whereas pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should completely avoid glucosamine to prevent any potential complications. Individuals with diabetes should be cautious when taking glucosamine as it might elevate blood sugar levels. Those suffering from asthma should watch out for adverse effects such as shortness of breath.
Chondroitin
What is Chondroitin?
Chondroitin is a fundamental component of cartilage, the robust connective tissue that cushions joints. Although chondroitin is naturally produced in the body, individuals typically use the supplement to obtain its potential joint-boosting benefits. Chondroitin is obtained from natural sources like shark and bovine cartilage but is also available as a supplement in higher doses than what is produced naturally. Furthermore, chondroitin is typically used with glucosamine or other ingredients in combating osteoarthritis.
The Benefits of Chondroitin
When taken as a supplement, chondroitin may assist in boosting collagen in joints to improve their shock-absorbing efficiency. They may help give the cartilage more elasticity for better water retention and a smoother cartilage function. Various studies have stated that supplementing chondroitin may aid in slowing down osteoarthritis development when taken over the long term. What’s more, supplementing chondroitin could also help prevent pain caused by cartilage breakdown.
The Side Effects of Taking Chondroitin
Adults who supplement chondroitin commonly take a dosage of 800 to 1,200mg per day. While chondroitin sulfate offers several joint health benefits, excess supplementation may lead to side effects. The main potential side effect is stomach discomfort while nausea, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation may also be experienced. Like a lot of supplements in the market, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should avoid taking chondroitin.
Do I Need to Take Glucosamine and Chondroitin Together?
Glucosamine and chondroitin may be taken separately but experts suggest combining them as a single supplement to optimally relieve arthritis pain and slow down cartilage deterioration. An extensive study has found an improvement in pain levels when these two supplements were taken together compared to when they were taken independently. Therefore, if you’re planning to supplement glucosamine, you may want to consider taking it with chondroitin to maximize the potential benefits.
Tips on Purchasing Supplements
As is the case with any supplement, it’s vital that you read nutrition labels carefully before making your purchase. Many of the supplements found in the market contain multiple ingredients. In this case, take note that more doesn’t always equate to better. A long ingredient list isn’t indicative of a particular brand being the best option. Lastly, keep in mind that glucosamine and chondroitin supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) despite their popularity in treating osteoarthritis.
Before Taking Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Although glucosamine and chondroitin supplements have shown promise for relieving pain, stiffness, and other arthritis symptoms, it’s always a good idea to take them as directed and under your health provider’s supervision. A thorough discussion with your doctor before starting supplementation is important as these natural supplements may cause side effects or they may interact with the medications that you’re currently taking. Ensure that you’re taking a safe quantity of the supplement and that you’re starting with the smallest dosage possible so that your body adapts smoothly to the new compounds. Furthermore, keep in mind that supplements are not a quick solution for arthritis pain and that they should be combined with the appropriate diet, exercise, and therapy to produce more significant pain relief.
