GLUCOSAMINE + CHONDROITIN - HEALTH BENEFITS

Glucosamine and chondroitin are structural components of cartilage, the tissue that cushions joints. Both are produced naturally in the human body.

2. How do glucosamine and chondroitin work?

Glucosamine is used to synthesize glycosaminoglycans, a type of molecule central to the formation and repair of cartilage and other tissues in the body. Chondroitin is the most abundant glycosaminoglycan in cartilage and contributes to cartilage resilience. Chondroitin is also important in blocking enzymes that can destroy cartilage.

3. What are the food sources of glucosamine and chondroitin?

Food sources of glucosamine are limited to shellfish shells such as shrimp, lobster and crab. Regarding chondroitin, food sources come from the cartilage of animal bones (cow and shark).

4. Who can benefit from a glucosamine and chondroitin supplement?

Glucosamine and chondroitin supplementation may help:

• Individuals with osteoarthritis of the knees and hips and muscle pain. The cartilage in the knee and hip joints can wear out over time and result in: initially, local inflammation and then deformation of the bone (arthrosis), which can lead to extreme pain and difficulty in moving the joint. Some studies show that using glucosamine supplements in combination with chondroitin can help slow cartilage degradation.
• Additionally, they can reduce inflammation from active use and help support normal joint function.
• It also helps to delay joint wear in athletes.

5. How important is it to combine MSM, turmeric and vitamin C with this supplement?

It is believed that methylsulfonylmethane, also known as MSM, can help maintain the flexibility and strength of ligaments (the fibrous connective tissues that hold a joint together). Research suggests it may also help reduce joint inflammation and pain.

Turmeric, a powerful natural anti-inflammatory, can help maintain joint function, relieve pain and offers numerous benefits for general immunity and the heart.

Vitamin C helps with collagen production to maintain healthy cartilage and also contributes to healthy bones.

6. What are the adverse effects associated with this supplement?

Over the years, multiple studies have shown that this supplement is considered safe, with no severe side effects. However, it can interfere with the blood thinner warfarin and can affect the way the body handles sugar, especially if the individual has diabetes or other blood sugar problems, such as insulin resistance or glucose intolerance. Individuals with these health problems should contact their family doctor before starting this dietary supplement.