Joint inflammation can be quite disabling, causing pain and reduced mobility. To maintain quality of life over the years, it is necessary to ensure that there are no chronic inflammatory processes at the joint level.
What is chondroitin and glucosamine?
Glucosamine and chondroitin are basic components of cartilage and synovial fluid and therefore, we must make sure that we have them in the necessary amounts to ensure the joint quality we need.
Both are components that naturally exist in the joint area but which may at some point be in very low amounts due to joint wear.
Usually, supplementation with these components is done together as joints need both.
Glucosamine exists in several forms, but it is glucosamine sulfate that works best, as well as chondroitin sulfate.
What is the relevance of supplementation?
Glucosamine and chondroitin are part of the structure of tendons, ligaments, cartilage and the fluid that surrounds them.
In cases of osteoarthritis or other situations of joint inflammation, the cartilage becomes thinner, causing more tension, stiffness and pain.
Supplementation strengthens cartilage and synovial fluid and prevents their degradation.
There is a stimulation of cartilage metabolism and its structure can be regenerated, allowing greater functionality.
Sulfate is also necessary for the production of cartilage, which is why supplementation with glucosamine sulfate is more effective than other forms.
Glucosamine supplementation has already been compared with the effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, being more beneficial and in other cases making it possible to lower the dose of anti-inflammatory medication for pain relief.
Glucosamine and chondroitin also act as anti-inflammatories.
There are no known major side effects other than nausea and digestive discomfort in some cases.
We draw your attention to the fact that glucosamine sometimes comes from the shell of shellfish and may represent a risk for those who are allergic to shellfish.
If you are taking anticoagulants, supplementation with glucosamine or chondroitin should not be taken.
What dosages?
Usually supplements have the 2 components but here is a suggestion:
Glucosamine Sulfate:
- For osteoarthritis: 1500mg once a day or 500mg 3 times a day;
- For specific joints such as the temporomandibular joint: 500mg 3 times a day.
Chondroitin sulfate:
- For osteoarthritis: 200 to 400 mg 2 to 3 times a day or a single dose of 1000 to 1200 mg.
There are creams that also have glucosamine and chondroitin. 50mg/g of chondroitin and 30mg/g of glucosamine is a good mix.
Improving joint metabolism may be in your hands, as well as avoiding the side effects of taking excessive non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
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