Many people take daily supplements to complement their nutritional intake. Whether it’s a multivitamin, a specific compound like calcium, or a herbal ingredient such as evening primrose oil, there are many choices. While taking a nice neat little pill may seem both effective and harmless, this may not always be the case.
There are several issues to consider when thinking about any type of dietary supplement. Is there a food source of this compound? Are there any proven benefits? Are there are any reported side effects or problems? What is the optimal dosage? What company provides a reliable quality product?
Most doctors would recommend that the best sources of minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients are foods. For example, eating red peppers and oranges is a better way of ingesting vitamin C than popping a pill. But some compounds can be hard to find in normal foods – or difficult to consume in large enough quantities. That’s when supplements become even more popular.
For people with joint problems, glucosamine and chondroitin are often suggested. Anecdotally, people find that the supplements help with joint stiffness and pain. Glucosamine is an amino sugar (glucose = sugar), while chondroitin is a sugar compound known as a glycosaminoglycan. They are both part of normal cartilage. Taken together, they are meant to help maintain joint cartilage through promoting the formation and repair of cartilage, while inhibiting destructive enzymes.
In conditions like osteoarthritis, joint pain results from the breakdown of joint cartilage, leading to the growth of bone spurs. Many people suffer from this painful problem, often due to past injuries, repetitive movements (especially at work), or excess weight placing strain on the joints.
Reading the label of such supplements will tell you that glucosamine is derived from shellfish, while chondroitin is from animal cartilage – often cow trachea. Clearly, these are not supplements that will appeal to vegetarians, vegans, or those with dietary restrictions – shellfish allergies, religious prohibitions, and so on.
There are also questions about the efficacy of these supplements and the necessary dosage to have any effect. One report recommended that a three-month trial period is sufficient and if no results were seen, the supplementation should be stopped. Essentially, these supplements may produce only a placebo effect – the mere suggestion of taking a pill may allow patients to start feeling better. However, some people experiencing moderate-to-severe pain did report improvement.
As for negative effects, some people report some digestive complaints. Research on animals has suggested an interaction with insulin resistance, but no effect has been reported in people. However, diabetics should monitor their blood-sugar carefully if taking glucosamine. Chondroitin can cause bleeding in people with certain bleeding disorders or using blood-thinners.
For those suffering with joint pain, taking a supplement may seem like a positive option compared to more powerful drugs. However, there are many other considerations to keep in mind. Read labels carefully and always consult a health professional before starting any medication or supplement.
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