But what is Glucosamine, and how does it work to relieve arthritis? In this
article, I’ll introduce you to this new treatment and provide you with the pros
and cons of its use. By the time you’ve finished reading this article, you’ll be
able to make an informed decision on whether or not Glucosamine is right for
you.
What is Glucosamine?
Glucosamine, together with a related ingredient called Chondroitin, are
substances which exist naturally in your body. It is believed that glucosamine
helps to build and repair cartilage (the soft, spongy material between your
joints), while chondroitin lends to the elasticity and flexibility of joints. A
deficiency of either one can lead to increased wear and tear on the joint, and
cause redness, swelling and stiffness as a result. When used together,
glucosamine and chondroitin act as a tag-team of arthritis fighters, improving
flexibility, soothing inflammation and reducing swelling caused by achy joints.
Where Can I Buy Glucosamine and Chondroitin Supplements?
You can find these products in virtually any pharmacy or health goods store. The
downside to this is, like other herbal and alternative medicines, supplements
are not regulated by any governing body. That’s why you’ll need to do a little
bit of research to find the best, most potent brand for your needs. Here’s what
you need to know when comparison shopping for a glucosamine supplement:
You should expect to pay anywhere from $1-3 per pill when taking
glucosamine daily. Since insurance companies rarely cover supplements of
any kind, you’ll most likely be paying for them out of pocket.
Read the ingredients label on the bottle to determine the dosage.
Approximately 1500mg of glucosamine and 1200mg of chondroitin have been safely
used in clinical trials. Depending on your individual medication tolerances and
the severity of your arthritis, you should consult your physician or
rheumatologist to find the right dose for your individual needs.
Select supplements manufactured by a well-known, reputable company.
Recommended brands include: Osteo Bi-Flex, WholeHealth, Flex-A-Min, MoveFree and
individual pharmacy brands.
Are There Any Side Effects I Should Know About?
As with any medication or supplements, there are a few warnings you should know:
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not use glucosamine/chondroitin
supplements, as no long-term studies have been done to gage what materials (if
any) are passed on to the baby either internally or through breast milk.
If you are diabetic, chondroitin (a form of sugar) may cause your blood sugar
to rise.
Chondroitin also acts as a mild blood thinner. Therefore, if you are taking
any heart medication or are taking an aspirin regimen, have your blood clotting
time checked more frequently by your doctor.
Glucosamine/Chondroitin supplements should not be taken by children since no
studies have been done to determine their effect (if any) on the child’s
development.
(Please note: The information contained within this article is not intended to
replace or substitute for that of an experienced physician. Remember to check
with your doctor or rheumatologist before starting daily glucosamine/chondroitin
supplements, and don’t stop or reduce any of your current medications (whether
they’re for arthritis or not) without first talking with your doctor).
About the Author:
James Louis writes about things that impact our society. A family members
involvement in the Bextra controversy has peaked his interest and he is now
sharing his research and insights. For more information visit:
http://www.bextra-site.com
