Glucosamine and chondroitin occur naturally in the body. Glucosamine in supplements comes from the shells of crabs whereas chondroitin sulfate is generally derived from cow cartilage but pig and chicken has also been used. A study sponsored by National Institutes of Health (NIH) showed that the combination of both glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate seems to be effective in the pain management in osteoarthritis patients with moderate to severe knee pain. Glucosamine promotes the formation and repair of cartilage whereas chondroitin is supposed to promote water retention and elasticity and inhibits enzymes that break down cartilage. I have used the combination for many years and found them as an effective way to manage my psoriatic arthritis. The trick is to ensure the supplement you purchase has the right stuff. Go to www.consumerlab.com to make sure the supplement you choose has what the label suggests.
Image from: www.naturalpath.com.
