arthritis 

Glucosamine & Chondroitin Supplements for Treating Arthritis

If a person is lacking in either one of these substances, there is more stress on the joint. This results in swelling, redness, and stiffness in that joint. Taken together, glucosamine and chondroitin act in unison to fight arthritis, thus soothing the inflamed area and reducing any existing swelling. It also allows for improved flexibility of the joints.

Many arthritis sufferers are now using Glucosamine as a remedy to relieve pain. Glucosamine, combined with Chondroitin, are substances that exist in your body in a natural state. It has been shown that glucosamine helps repair damaged cartilage and build new cartilage as well. Cartilage is the spongy material between the joints Chondroitin allows for elasticity and make the joints flexible.

Today, these products are available all pharmacies and health stores. Since this is considered an herbal or alternative medicine, like all supplements, these are not FDA regulated. It is incumbent upon the users to research these products and speak to their doctor or pharmacist to be sure that they are getting a reliable product.

Glucosamine and chondroitin come in varying dosages. Read the labels carefully so that you know what dosage you are purchasing. The recommended daily dosage for glucosamine is 1500mg and the recommended daily dosage for chondroitin is 1200mg.

Get some education by reading articles and also looking at natural means to heal yourself. Your physician or rheumatologist is the best one to provide you with the correct information and prescribe the right dose for you. The determination will be made according to the type of arthritis you are suffering from as well as the severity of your pain or limitation.

Some of the most common names are: WholeHealth. MoveFree, Osteo Bi-Flex, and Flex-A-Min.. There are also generic or pharmacy brands that have been shown to be effective and safe as well.. There are now many brands on the market, hopefully manufactured by reputable companies.

The cost of glucosamine is typically between $1.00 and $3.00 per pill. Please note that supplements of any kind are not covered by insurance.

Whether you are taking a prescription drug or a vitamin supplement, you should always adhere to any warnings that are given by the manufacturers. Many of these warnings for possible side effects are the same and really quite sensible.

* Pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding should not use glucosamine/chondroitin supplements. There is not enough long-term data to determine its safety.

* Children should not take Glucosamine/Chondroitin supplements.

* Any person taking a blood thinner, such as cumadin, heart medication, or on an aspirin regime should not take Chondroitin since this acts as a mild blood thinner.

* Diabetics should not use chondroitin since it is a form of sugar and may cause a rise in r blood sugar.

While it is good to read articles about various medications and educate yourself on the basics, light reading does not replace the advice of a health professional. Remember that it is important to check with your doctor or rheumatologist before starting any daily glucosamine/chondroitin supplements.

Updated July 2008 by TM - http://www.aarthritis.com/

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