Effects of Glucosamine Chondroitin Supplements

Preliminary evidence suggests that glucosamine chondroitin can provide relief of symptoms of osteoarthritis and other chronic health conditions. This degenerative joint disease affects about 27 million Americans, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. The pain associated with this condition affects the quality of life, with a treatment such as glucosamine chondroitin sound promising. However, research is mixed, and not all uses approved by the Food and Drug Administration United States.
Osteoarthritis helps in pain reduction
While their effects have been studied extensively in Europe, intervention trial of glucosamine-chondroitin arthritis by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine is the first large-scale U.S. The study found that those with moderate pain and severe osteoarthritis received the greatest benefit of supplementation of glucosamine chondroitin. Those with mild pain do not experience any significant pain relief.
Improved mobility of joints
The effects of glucosamine chondroitin are not limited to humans. This supplement is prescribed by veterinarians for the treatment of joint stiffness in dogs and cats. A 2010 study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, found that glucosamine chondroitin supplements significantly improved the mobility of cats with feline degenerative joint disease. This disease, such as osteoarthritis in humans, causes the breakdown of cartilage and is associated with age or joint injuries.
Reduction of joint inflammation
A 2008 study published in the journal "Osteoarthritis and Cartilage," found that these supplements significantly improved knee swelling in study participants. While the evidence is not clear about its role in reverse osteoarthritis, glucosamine chondroitin sulfate appear to offer ways to treat the symptoms of this painful condition.
Those who suffer from osteoarthritis may depend on aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to treat their symptoms. However, concerns exist due to possible effects on the gastrointestinal system. Glucosamine chondroitin can provide relief without these additional health concerns.
Antibacterial activity
Another effect of glucosamine chondroitin may have applications in the food industry. A 2009 study in the journal, "Clinical Rheumatology, found that glucosamine chondroitin showed antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, a bacterial disease caused by eating undercooked meat or contaminated water, says the American Academy of Family Physicians. However, while glucosamine chondroitin was effective for bacteria, had no effect on fungi.
Gastrointestinal upset
Taking glucosamine chondroitin may cause some unwanted side effects. Gastrointestinal discomfort may occur in sensitive individuals as warned by the experts. Glucosamine and Chondroitin sugars are bit risky for diabetics, hence they should consult a doctor before taking these supplements.