Chondroitin Glucosamine
What is chondroitin glucosamine supplement?
Chondroitin glucosamine supplement is a form of dietary supplement that contains both chondroitin and glucosamine. Chondroitin and glucosamine are both substances that occur naturally in the human body and they are of vital importance for out health. Glucosamine is an amino sugar and acts as precursor when glycosylated proteins and lipids are synthesised in body. It is therefore believed to influence cartilage formation, maintenance and repair. Chondroitin sulfate is a type of sulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) consisting of a long chain of alternating sugars. Chondroitin sulfate acts both structurally and regulatory in the human body. It preserves the structural integrity of human tissue and generates the electrostatic repulsion that makes our cartilage so resistant to compression. When chondroitin sulfate is lost from cartilage, a person can develop osteoarthritis. Chondroitin sulfate is also important for regulating cellular activities; it will for instance regulate growth and development of the nervous system.

How are chondroitin glucosamine supplements manufactured?
Chondroitin is extracted from animal cartilage; normally tracheas and shark cartilage. Glucosamine is normally extracted from shellfish, such as shrimp, lobster and crabs. Since a lot of people are allergic to shellfish, or avoid it due to ethical, religious or cultural reasons, there is however an American company that produces glucosamine from corn. If you want to stay clear of shellfish products, look for glucosamine supplements labelled “vegetarian glucosamine” or “vegan glucosamine”.

What to think about when using chondroitin glucosamine
Chondroitin glucosamine supplements are considered safe, but since it is only a dietary supplement in most jurisdictions, it is normally not as strictly regulated as traditional pharmaceuticals. It is therefore important to buy your chondroitin glucosamine supplements from a reputable manufacturer. It is always a good idea to discus your dietary supplements with a health professional to make sure they are suitable for you.

• Animal testing has indicated that glucosamine might be able to increase insulin resistance in individuals prone to insulin resistance. If you have diabetes, suffer from insulin resistance or are in the risk zone of developing insulin resistance, you should not start using chondroitin glucosamine supplements without first consulting your doctor.
• Always read the label before you purchase chondroitin glucosamine supplements to stay clear of unnecessary additions. Some manufacturers will for instance include unreasonably high amounts of sodium in their chondroitin glucosamine products.
• The recommended dose normally costs around $1 to $4 per day. If the price is much higher than this, ask your self if you are really getting any added benefits, or if you simply have found a really expensive manufacturer or reseller.
• Chondroitin glucosamine supplements are not a quick “fix all” against all sorts of joint pain. Always obtain a proper medical diagnosis before you start using supplements, and discuss medications and supplements with your doctor.