Glucosamine and chondroitin are among the most popular non-vitamin, non-mineral “specialty” supplements for improved cartilage/ joint health and inflammation. It has long been associated with MSM (methyl sulfonyl methane), a sulfur containing compound studied for its anti-inflammatory benefits and for reducing pain. Sustainably sourced algae vegan Omega-3 oil and curcumin are added to further boost the anti- inflammatory response.
Glucosamine is a molecule that occurs naturally within the body, and works to lubricate the joints and reduce inflammation from wear and tear.
Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound that is chemically classified as an amino sugar. Amino sugars are a glucose molecule with an amine group attached. Another common amino sugar is N-acetyl glucosamine which is essential for tissue maintenance in a similar way to glucosamine but aligned more with the gut membrane health.
Glucosamine is a building block for a variety of functional molecules in the body but is primarily recognized for developing and maintaining cartilage within your joints . It can be taken orally or topically as a gel or cream.
Glucosamine in nature is found in shellfish shells, animal bones and fungi and these are often the natural sources for supplements.
One high profile study (200 participants) linked glucosamine supplements to a 24 – 28% reduction in two critical inflammatory markers CRP and PGE after supplementation although not all inflammatory markers, indicating that it works well for certain bone and joint conditions, and not for others. The addition of chondroitin increased the reduction of inflammation to 36%.
Ultimately, more research is needed on glucosamine’s role in the reduction of inflammation.
Glucosamine Sulfate 2KCL
Glucosamine HCL
Methyl-Sulfonyl-Methane
Chondroitin Sulfate
Whole food formulas with an enzyme and mineral delivery system
This combination of amino acids has been specifically studied for their potential to treat symptoms and disease progression associated with osteoporosis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
There is a growing body of evidence that diet and nutrition play an important role in maintaining cartilage and soft tissue. Studies indicate that supplementing daily with glucosamine sulfate may offer effective, long-term treatment for osteoarthritis by slowing the progression of disease, delaying degeneration of the joint and reducing pain. It is not quite so clear if it is of benefit in RA although it may provide some pain relief.
The strongest evidence supports glucosamine sulfate use for long-term treatment of osteoarthritis symptoms, albeit it may not work for everyone. If you are considering Glucosamine and chondroitin, I would suggest you take it with MSM, omega-3 fish oil and curcumin and choose a quality supplementary source.
The typical glucosamine dosage is 1,200 – 1500mg per day of glucosamine and 1000mg chondroitin which you can take at once or in multiple smaller doses throughout the day with food.
