Glucosamine and Chondroitin – Your Arthritis Relievers
Suffering from arthritis? If you are, you’re not alone. Over 40 million Americans have some form of arthritis, and the aches and pains that go along with it. Arthritis sufferers want an effective way to rid themselves of the pain, the inflammation, and the aching joints. There is help, and that help has been around for quite some time now. It comes in the form of glucosamine and chondroitin! Glucosamine and chondroitin are the two most common remedies for arthritis pain. But what makes Glucosamine and Chondroitin so effective in arthritis relief? You’d be surprised to find out.
Glucosamine and chondroitin are both found in joint cartilage, which makes them very important for joint health and overall flexibility. Due to its unstable nature, glucosamine cannot be sold by itself; so it’s usually paired with a low-density sulfate or hydrochloride. Chondroitin is very similar in that it’s sold as chondroitin sulfate. Because these two substances are often sold as sulfates, MSM (a kind of sulfur derivative) is mixed in to make the “ultimate arthritis remedy” a bit more potent and effective. Glucosamine and Chondroitin can be found in a wide array of forms, such as pills, tablets, caplets, or as a mixable powder.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin are very beneficial to overall joint health; however, they’re not without some side effects. First, abdominal pain and diarrhea are common with taking glucosamine and chondroitin, although it is not as severe as it could be while taking an NSAID such as aspirin. On the other hand, a glucosamine and chondroitin blend has a relatively low toxicity, which also makes it attractive to those seeking a non-prescription relief method suited for long-term use. Also, the relatively slow acting period of at least a month is a disincentive to those looking for more immediate results.
In short, Glucosamine and Chondroitin are an economical and effective way for joint pain sufferers to find some relief. Since they’re both found in joint cartilage, they can help slow the deterioration of cartilage, reduce harmful inflammation, and help promote pain-free flexibility and a more active lifestyle. While the relief curve is rather steep, the promise of less pain and a possible remedy for arthritis makes taking glucosamine and chondroitin very attractive. While there are other possible remedies out there, glucosamine and chondroitin are the two that are the most effective to take for the money.
