Glucosamine and chondroitin are widely used by arthritis sufferers because they can be effective for the symptoms of arthritis, are safe to use and are made from natural sources.
This kind of information will not completely influence an arthritis sufferer to take the supplements.
Knowing more information about these supplements and considering its side effects is still important.
Glucosamine Glucosamine is a natural element and one of the building blocks of cartilage.
It is extracted from seashells such as crab and lobster.
It aids in repairing damaged cartilage and in forming new cartilage.
Several researchers have verified that glucosamine is successful in relieving osteoarthritis symptoms but keep in mind that it only addresses the symptoms and not the disease itself.
Therapeutic effects will be attained if doses are taken accordingly.
It has been reported that glucosamine shows a significant increase of glucose in the blood.
An individual with diabetes or has a hypoglycemic problems should be careful in consuming glucosamine supplements.
It is always s recommended that you consult your physician before taking the supplement, even if you are not diabetic.
Several studies show that consuming glucosamine supplement for a short time is generally tolerable.
If this supplement is consumed in high doses, or exceeding the allowable dose, you can experience undesirable effects such as difficulty in sleeping, headaches and dizziness.
Digestive problems can also occur such as diarrhea, constipation, poor appetite, gastric upset and heartburn.
Glucosamine may increase the possibility of bleeding if an individual taking the supplement has a blood clotting problem.
Researchers have found that glucosamine is a blood thinner so individuals who are on anticoagulant medications and taking an anti platelet drug should be careful and should consult their physician before taking the supplement.
Individuals who are also taking gingko biloba or vitamin E should also be careful in having glucosamine supplements since it will provide a higher tendency of bleeding.
Allergies can also occur when taking glucosamine sulfate.
As we said earlier, it is extracted mainly from seashells so an individual who are allergic in these food groups should be cautious enough since it will cause an undesirable allergic reactions.
Chondroitin Chondroitin is also a well known supplement these days.
Many osteoarthritis sufferers prefer taking chondroitin together with glucosamine in treating the pain and inflammation they experience.
Chondroitin and glucosamine are safe and effective compared to conventional medications which may cause an unknown effect when used in a long term regimen.
Chondroitin is also a vital component of the cartilage that supplies fluid to the joint and other tissues making them smooth and flexible.
It also protects the cartilage from harmful enzymes.
As with glucosamine, chondroitin is also a blood thinner and will also increase the possibility of bleeding.
It can also cause allergic reaction.
Having an allergy should prompt you to consult first before having the medication.
Glucosamine and chondoritin side effects are reported to be tolerable.
Minor side effects of chondroitin include nausea, constipation, indigestion and heartburn.