Saturday, January 24, 2009

Glucosamine and Chondroitin Side Effects

By Amy Clark

The human body contains Glucosamine, a naturally occurring compound that is made from the synthesis of glucose plus a type of amino acid called glutamine. Glucosamine can also be described as an amino sugar created from glucose and L-glutamine.

Glucosamine is also known by a number of other names, including: glucosamine hydrochloride, glucosamine sulfate, and N-acetyl glucosamine.

Glycosaminoglycan, meanwhile, is a molecule that is relevant in the development or restoration of your cartilage and other tissues throughout the body. As you grow older, the body's production of Glycosaminoglycan diminishes, hence causing swelling and bloating in the joints.

Glucosamine with chondroitin serve as cartilage building blocks. Glucosamine supplements are natural substances that occur naturally in the harvesting of shellfish.

Glucosamine is commonly taken alongside chondroitin to control osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms. Clinical research has documented that the combination of glucosamine and chondroitin is successful in treating osteoporosis and in due time restoring or improving bone function.

Side Effects of Glucosamine Chondroitin

In general, the majority of supplements come with their own potential for adverse effects. Glucosamine and Chondroitin have revealed positive results in clinical trials, with most users reporting no side effects.

But in isolated cases, some individuals may report a small elevation in blood pressure, breathing difficulties, uneasiness, rashes, nausea, mild headaches, and stomach aches or gastrointestinal pains.

One of the most common side effects of glucosamine-chondroitin supplements is soft stools and increased intestinal gas, but this is very rare. Clinical researches using animals reveal that glucosamine may lessen insulin levels, which can cause diabetes. Although this has not occurred in human tests, diabetic patients are still advised to be careful and regularly check their blood sugar when using glucosamine.

Additionally, individuals who are taking aspirins or blood thinners should consult their doctor before taking the plunge. Likewise, pregnant women or women who want to get pregnant must also seek proper medical advice, particularly because the effects of glucosamine on a developing fetus is yet not known. Children and breast feeding women must also stay away from glucosamine completely.

At present, different clinical studies continue to document the long-term effects of glucosamine-chondroitin supplements. In general, while their long-term impact is yet a mystery, the majority of specialists share the collective opinion that the combined benefits of glucosamine & chondroitin sulfate in treating osteoarthritis are far more important than any potential side effects.

Glucosamine with chondroitin is probably the single most potent supplement for lubricating, maintaining, and protecting the joints. Additionally, glucosamine restrains the movement of your joints and consequently prevent the weakening of the joint cartilage. Various studies have proven the potency of glucosamine in pain management and treating osteoarthritis symptoms, although such outcomes were not immediately available. Moreover, Glucosamine is also believed to lessen inflammation of the joints and block harmful enzymes that may damage the cartilage, though further studies on this aspect are needed. - 15437

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