You have no doubt heard people talk about the benefits they have experienced from nutritional supplements glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM. What is it about these ingredients that make them so special?

Glucosamine is a substance found naturally in the joints that stimulates the formation and repair of cartilage that has degenerated over time. The subject of so many clinical studies over the past 20 years, glucosamine has proven effective at reducing joint pain. In one Portuguese study involving people with osteoarthritis, 95% of the participants experienced at least some benefit when taking 1500 mg of glucosamine per day. Another recent study seems to indicate glucosamine slows the deterioration of cartilage and relieves pain. Glucosamine is considered safe with no side effects.

Chondroitin is a major component of cartilage. Chondroitin, found naturally in the body, works to protect cartilage by blocking enzymes that seek to break down cartilage by absorbing excess fluid in the connecting tissue. It also assists in cartilage repair. Many studies have been done on chondroitin supplements indicating that they may be effective at reducing swelling and stiffness in the joints and may provide relief from the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Numerous other studies are underway.

MSM is a substance which has the ability to reduce pain. MSM is a biologically available (organic) form of sulfur. Sulfur is one of the major components of food and one of the most prevalent materials in the body. While this supplement is taken for many purposes including allergies and skin, one of the most common uses is for joint and muscle pain. In studies, it has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Since some MSM is found in the food we eat, there are no side effects or major health concerns.



Thanks to John Bradstreet for contributing this article to our Arthritis blog:

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