Glucosamine and chondroitin are structural components of cartilage, the tissue that cushions the joints. Both nutrients are produced naturally in the body and are readily available as dietary supplements. Researchers have studied the effects of these supplements individually and in combination, on osteoarthritis (OA), a common type of arthritis that destroys cartilage in the joints. OA is a degenerative joint disease that is characterised by increasing loss of cartilage, remodeling of the periarticular bone, and inflammation of the synovial membrane.
How do they work?
In OA, the gradual degeneration of cartilage leads to pain, swelling and other symptoms. Glucosamine and chondroitin have been shown to protect cells called chondrocytes, which help maintain cartilage structure. Their chondroprotective action can be explained by dial mechanisms;
(1) as basic components of cartilage and synovial fluid, they stimulate the anabolic process of the cartilage metabolism;
(2) their anti-inflammatory action can delay many inflammation-induced catabolic processes in the cartilage. These two mechanisms, in theory, have the potential to slow the progression of cartilage destruction and may help to regulate the joint structure, leading to reduced pain and increased mobility of the affected joint (Jerosch, 2011).
These two mechanisms are able to slow the progression of cartilage destruction and may help to regenerate the joint structure, leading to reduced pain and increased mobility of the affected joint (Jerosch, 2011).
As shown above, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are important basic natural components of cartilage and synovial fluid. They are naturally formed by the body but can also be provided in the diet. Supplementation of such components may be beneficial, especially when there is a disturbed balance between catabolic and anabolic processes, which can be seen in conditions such as OA. In OA chondrocytes are no longer able to fully compensate for the loss of collagen type II fibers which is when supplementation of these nutrients can assist.
Omega 3 fatty acids also act as a chondroprotective which can be found in foods such as walnuts, flaxseeds, and fish oils. Omega 3 / polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) such as linolenic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is known for their inflammatory actions, which have been shown in several studies to increase collagen synthesis and decrease inflammation.
What is the recommended dose?
- Glucosamine sulfate: 1500mg per day
- Glucosamine hydrochloride: 1500mg per day (note, glucosamine sulfate is suggested to be more effective)
- Chondroitin sulfate: 800 - 1000mg per day
These supplements are usually manufactured from the cartilage of animals such as cows, pigs or shellfish or made in a lab.
References:
Jerosch, J. (2011). Effects of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate on Cartilage Metabolism in OA: Outlook on Other Nutrients Partners Especially Omega-3 Fatty Acids. DOI: 10.1155/2011/969012
