Side Effects of Glucosamine and Chondroitin

Last Updated on Sunday, 16 October 2011 12:44 Written by admin Sunday, 16 October 2011 12:44

The human body produces a naturally occurring substance called Glucosamine which is made from glucose and glutamine (an amino acid). Glucosamine can also be a natural amino sugar that is synthesized from L-glutamine and glucose.

Glucosamine has many other names, including: glucosamine hydrochloride, N-acetyl glucosamine, and glucosamine sulfate.

Glycosaminoglycan, on the other hand, is a molecule that is crucial in the growth or restoration of your cartilage and other tissues throughout your body. At some point in the aging process, your body�s production of Glycosaminoglycan decelerates, and consequently causing swollen and bloated joints.

Glucosamine with chondroitin function as building blocks of your cartilage and your connective tissues. Glucosamine products are natural components occurring in shellfish harvests.

Glucosamine is commonly used with chondroitin to control osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms. Medical studies have documented that the combination of glucosamine and chondroitin is effective in treating osteoporosis and ultimately restoring or improving bone function.

Glucosamine Chondroitin and Potential Risks

In general, the majority of supplements have their own potential for negative side effects. Glucosamine and Chondroitin have demonstrated outstanding results in clinical trials, with a majority of patients documenting no side effects.

But in a few cases, some people may experience a small increase in blood pressure, minor breathing difficulties, uneasiness, rashes, nausea, mild headaches, plus stomach or gastrointestinal aches.

A common side effect of glucosamine chondroitin is soft stools and higher intestinal gas, although these are very rare. Clinical researches with animals indicate that glucosamine may reduce insulin levels, which may cause diabetes. Even though this has not occurred in human trials, those with diabetes are still advised to remain cautious and regularly check their blood sugar levels when taking glucosamine supplements.

Also, those who are on blood thinners or aspirin medication therapy should consult their physician before taking the plunge. Similarly, women trying to get pregnant or who are pregnant must also get a physician�s advice, as the effects of these supplements on a growing fetus is still unknown. Children and women who are breast feeding must stay away from glucosamine entirely.

To date, several clinical researches continue to investigate the long-term effects of glucosamine-chondroitin supplements. Generally speaking, while their long-term effects are still not known, most specialists agree that the combined benefits of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate in treating osteoarthritis overshadow any potential side effects.

Glucosamine with chondroitin is notably the single most potent supplement for protecting, maintaining, and lubricating the joints throughout your body. Additionally, glucosamine limits joint movement and consequently protect against joint cartilage deterioration. Several studies have proven the potency of glucosamine in relieving pain and treating osteoarthritis symptoms, though these outcomes were not immediately available. In addition, Glucosamine is also established to lessen inflammation of the joints and inhibit destructive enzymes that destroy the joint cartilage, though more studies on this are needed.

To grab your copy of the Free Arthritis Relief Guide, and to read more articles related to Glucosamine and Chondroitin Side Effects, please visit this website on arthritis.