Cartilage in the body produces glucosamine, a monosaccharide that functions as a lubricant and natural shock absorber for the joints. It is one of the key components of the joint fluid and provides an improvement in the regeneration of cartilage cells. In addition, glucosamine is synergistic with chondroitin, another important component of joint lubrication.
Insufficient production of glucosamine provokes friction of cartilage tissue, leading to arthrosis. Also, the lack of this substance disrupts the synthesis of chondroitin. A specific crunch in the joints and even painful sensations can be caused by a lack of glucosamine, which, in turn, affects collagen metabolism in the joint fluid.
Taking drugs with glucosamine and chondroitin can reduce back or knee pain by reducing inflammation in cartilage and connective tissues. However, scientific studies note that this is only a temporary improvement in the quality of the joint fluid. In simple terms, glucosamine “lubricates the joints”, but it is not able to cure arthritis.
Glucosamine – which is better?
Glucosamine is divided into two forms – hydrochloride and sulfate, based on its chemical composition. Theoretically, the hydrochloride molecule is smaller, which should allow better absorption of the supplement – however, studies do not support this. Most recommendations boil down to the fact that it is necessary to take the substance in the form of sulfate.
Also, the presence of chondroitin and dimethyl sulfone (MSM) in the composition of the preparations affects the increase in the effectiveness of the additive. The most common forms of administration are injections and tablets. Although injecting the substance directly into the joint capsule is better for relieving pain symptoms, in most cases, capsules are more convenient – especially when taken prophylactically.
Chondroitin and glucosamine: properties
Chondroitin refers to correctors of bone and cartilage metabolism. The substance initiates the process of sulfur fixation, which contributes to the deposition of calcium in the bones. Stimulates the synthesis of hyaluronic acid, and strengthens the connective structures of cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. It has an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect, and promotes the regeneration of joints (it is a chondroprotector).
The main property of chondroitin is its ability to store fluid in the cartilage. Chondroitin is synthesized from glucosamine in the human body and can also be obtained through food, in the form of chondroitin sulfate from natural products (tendons, cartilage, skin of animals, and fish), or in the form of supplements. It is retained in the form of water cavities, providing cushioning and shock absorption.
Where is glucosamine found?
Glucosamine is found in its natural form in the shells of mollusks and other crustaceans, bones, and bone marrow of animals, as well as in some mushrooms. The source for the production of most drugs with glucosamine sulfate is quinine, obtained from the shells of the aforementioned mollusks. Its activity is believed to be ten times better than a substance obtained from the bones of cattle.
Note that jelly, jelly, and other products made on the basis of animal bone tissue contain glucosamine, chondroitin, and collagen. Despite the fact that heat treatment changes the structure of molecules (for example, collagen turns into gelatin that is much more difficult to digest), it still preserves the composition. Having these foods in your diet can be beneficial for joint health.
How to take pills?
The overwhelming number of scientific papers devoted to studying the effect of glucosamine and chondroitin on relieving joint pain implied using supplements in fairly large quantities – about 2000-3000 mg per day. Studies have shown that lower doses have a significantly less effect on the body. In addition, the drugs are not effective in the form of ointments or creams.
Good supplements should contain on the order of 300-500 mg of glucosamine sulfate per tablet. It is necessary to take such a drug with food, three times a day. The total daily dose should be 900-1500 mg. It should be noted that the typical dosage of glucosamine tablets (especially cheap ones) usually falls well below the indicated amount.
The best drugs with glucosamine
Note that a weekly course of such drugs is not able to have a noticeable result on the condition of the joints. For the best effect, it is recommended to take the supplement regularly and long-term – up to 6 months without a break. Scientific studies have proven that glucosamine has no contraindications and is not able to have a harmful effect even with long-term use.
Despite this, we recall that preparations with glucosamine and chondroitin are exclusively prophylactic agents. Studies suggest that they show an extremely moderate effectiveness in restoring destroyed cartilage. In fact, it is impossible to cure arthritis with them. Even prophylactic use does not have a clear supporting basis.
Cartilage and joint fluids contain substances known as glucosamine and chondroitin. Their insufficient production provokes friction of the cartilage tissue, leading to arthrosis. Taking drugs with glucosamine and chondroitin can reduce pain (especially in the back and knees), as well as reduce the number of inflammatory processes in cartilage and connective tissues.