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What is Chondroitin Sulfate?

Chondroitin sulfate is a glycosaminoglycan, or GAG (also known as a mucopolysaccharide). This means Chondroitin sulfate is a compound that binds to collagen and elastin to create cartilage. This in effect makes it a constituent of cartilage. The function of cartilage is quite similar to that of a shock absorber for the joints and vertebrae in your body. As we get older, our body becomes less effective at repairing and regenerating all tissues, including cartilage. Those who are overweight or genetically predisposed in particular suffer from the excessive cartilage loss that can result to osteoarthritis, a debilitating condition characterized by chronic pain and inflammation in the joints and vertebrae.

Chondroitin sulfate is a glycosaminoglycan that provides a further substrate for the synthesis of the proteoglycans. The building blocks for collagen are amino acids, especially proline, glycine and lysine. Proteoglycans are large and complex macromolecules made up primarily of long chains of modified sugars called glycosaminoglycans or mucopolysaccharides. In essence, chondroitin sulfate is a biological polymer derived from connective tissue. Chondroitin triggers and promotes proteoglycan production and collagen and hyaluronic synthesis. As such it appears to function as a 'building block' for the production and manufacture of cartilage, consequently slowing the progressive degradation which occurs in osteoarthritis.

Chondroitin is present in the lining of the digestive tract, blood vessels, mucus membranes, and arteries, and it helps promote normal blood flow throughout the body. Chondroitin supplementation may help treat conditions linked to the deterioration of these linings, such as chronic venous insufficiency, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and congestive heart failure. It may also help avert a heart attack in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease by helping to thin the blood and prevent potentially fatal clots from forming in the arteries. In fact, chondroitin has been found to be chemically similar to heparin, a known blood thinner. Research has shown that chondroitin sulfate can aid in lowering cholesterol and keeping atherosclerosis in animals and humans at bay. Additionally, studies suggest that chondroitin sulfate may assist in preventing kidney stones by lowering levels of oxalate in the urine.

What is Chondroitin Sulfate used for and who uses it?

Chondroitin is best known to the general public as a remedy for osteoarthritis, a type of arthritis which is a direct result of the wearing away or degeneration of the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones. Chondroitin helps to maintain the integrity and resilience of the cartilage by absorbing fluid (particularly water) into the connective tissue. It is also believed to inhibit enzymes that help break down cartilage while at the same time providing the building blocks required for cartilage to heal itself. Chondroitin sulfate not only provides additional organic sulfur to the formula to form cartilage but it also works synergistically with glucosamine since its structure provides galactosamine which is a different pathway than that used by glucosamine.

Specifically, chondroitin sulfate A has been confirmed to be a potent anti-inflammatory that enhances blood circulation, prevents ischemic heart disease, lower incidences of heart attacks, reduces incidences of strokes, and is also effective in strengthening connective joint tissue. Chondroitin sulfate is able to prevent heart disease owing to the inherent antithrombogenic or anticoagulant properties which prevent abnormal blood clots and lower the incidence and susceptibility to strokes. Chondroitin sulfate B is found in the dermis of the skin and is also one of the constituents responsible for maintaining viscoelasticity of the skin. Chondroitin sulfate C inhibits elastase, an effect which may provide some analgesia and contribute to the slowing of cartilage degradation.

Because chondroitin is a natural component of cartilage, using chondroitin supplements can improve the body’s ability to synthesize cartilage more quickly and efficiently, especially when taken in conjunction with glucosamine sulfate, another substance needed to form cartilage in the body. Chondroitin sulfate also inhibits the action of enzymes that break down cartilage and draws moisture to cartilage tissue so that it stays flexible. Chondroitin is a protein that is used to make new bones, cartilage and tendons, as well as to repair damaged ones. It is part of a protein molecule called proteoglycan that makes our cartilage elastic. Chondroitin is believed to facilitate pain-free movement by helping to draw fluids right into the cartilage, making them flexible and spongy.

There have been numerous studies regarding the implications of chondroitin supplementation on osteoarthritis symptoms, and most studies proved that oral chondroitin sulfate supplements helped alleviate pain and stiffness in the knees, hips, finger joints, and spines of participants, thus significantly reducing their need for anti-inflammatories. Chondroitin is currently synthesized from natural sources of cartilage, such as those derived from sharks or cows, as well as synthetic sources. However, it is important to keep in mind that Chondroitin absorption takes time and it is somewhat difficult to absorb, so if you are feeling severe pain from arthritic symptoms and you’re looking for more immediate relief, speak to your physician about chondroitin injections, which are the most effective form of this supplement.

How pure is your Chondroitin Sulfate?

This Chondroitin Sulfate powder is assayed by the manufacturer as 90.4% pure product (normal range 90.0% and above). You will receive a double sealed labeled bulk polyethylene bag containing this off-white fine powder product. It contains no fillers, taste additives, or anti-caking agents. The remaining 9.6% by weight are inactive byproducts of the extraction. Past studies have revealed that people taking chondroitin sulfate experience a great deal of pain relief from mild to moderate arthritis (or osteoarthritis). Its effect has been seen to be similar to that of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or aspirin that are usually prescribed by doctors. Thus, chondroitin sulfate supplements are seen to be an alternative treatment for arthritis. It has also been seen to improve the functional status of those who suffer from knee or hip arthritis, and reduce joint stiffness and swelling. Unfortunately, there are no significant natural dietary sources of chondroitin, so supplementation may be necessary.

What are some of the common effects of Chondroitin Sulfate?

Since Chondroitin is in fact a major component of the cartilage, which are the connective tissues that form cushions in the joints, Chondroitin helps keep the cartilage healthy by putting in fluids into the connective tissues, making them soft and flexible. It is also an essential component in the synthesis of new cartilage in your body. The principle behind chondroitin supplements is based largely on how this compound originally functions in your body. There have already been numerous clinical trials studies confirming the potency of chondroitin supplementation in treating osteoarthritis. It has also been extensively used for alleviating the pain and the symptoms that come with arthritis. Chondroitin supplements usually come in its sulfate (chondroitin sulfate) form. It is also often combined with glucosamine, which in turn is an amino acid sugar that helps in forming and repairing cartilage.

What is the daily suggested dose of Chondroitin Sulfate?

The recommended chondroitin dosage for arthritis and osteoarthritis relief is about 1,200 to 1,600 milligrams per day divided in two or three doses, for a span of about two months or so depending upon individual needs. You can see the full bulk density/volumetric conversion chart for Chondroitin Sulfate here. Taking 1/4 level teaspoon will supply about 814 mg, or just about 1.6 grams or 1600 mg when taken twice daily. Chondroitin supplements are typically safe to use together with current arthritis medications. It is also often taken along with glucosamine in supplements sold as remedies for arthritis, joint pain, and chronic back pain. An optimal and standard balance between chondroitin and glucosamine is not known, although the usual dosage is 1,200 milligrams of chondroitin and 1,500 milligrams of glucosamine daily.

As always, if you have concerns or questions, consult a physician or a health care professional before taking any supplements. Before taking any kind of medicine, check with your doctor to ensure that the supplement you want to take is right for you. You may be allergic or you may have a sensitive stomach which may raise the need for special instruction as far as dosage goes.

What kind of results do people anticipate while taking Chondroitin Sulfate?

Aside from providing structure and holding water and nutrients, chondroitin also manages and controls how and which molecules can move through the cartilage. This is a very important characteristic, as there is no blood supply to cartilage. As a result, joint support is significantly improved with supplementation. Chondroitin and similar compounds also exist in the bladder and lining of blood vessels. Here they help to maintain the proper transport and flow of blood, urine, or components across the barrier of the vessel or bladder wall. Japanese researchers have found that chondroitin have an important part in determining the viscosity and elasticity of tissues and fluids. A recent in vitro study done by Belgian scientists confirmed that chondroitin had potentially beneficial effects on human cartilage cells.

Precautions and Potential side effects of Chondroitin Sulfate

There have been no reported adverse effects that are associated with intake of glucosamine or chondroitin supplements. However, there have been isolated reports of rather mild side effects which include nausea, upset stomach, diarrhea or constipation, indigestion, stomach pain and heart burn. The only major side effect that has been reported occurred when chondroitin supplement was used in the eye. There have been a few cases of intraocular hypertension, which is the build-up of pressure inside the eyes when the chondroitin supplement was applied on it. Temporary or mild swelling of the cornea has also been reported.

Because chondroitin supplements usually contain glucosamine, people who have diabetes should take extreme caution when taking this supplement. If you are one of them and have decided to take this chondroitin glucosamine supplements, you must make sure that you check your blood sugar level more frequently. Extra care must also be taken if you are allergic to shellfish, taking blood thinning medications or pregnant. Because chondroitin is a natural anticoagulant, anyone with blood disorders, or who is currently taking blood thinners or aspirin should take chondroitin only after consulting a physician.

The information at Purebulk.com is NOT a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use any dietary supplement as a replacement for conventional care, or as a reason to postpone seeing a doctor about a medical problem. Tell all your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

Suggested preparation of Chondroitin Sulfate

Chondroitin sulfate can be taken orally as a pill, powder, or liquid. It can also be administered by injection. It is also available in combination with various forms of glucosamine and sometimes manganese as well. Although there are no standard dosage guidelines, when chondroitin is taken together with glucosamine as a treatment for osteoarthritis, the daily dosage will be dependent on the patient's weight. Chondroitin can be taken without regard to meals.

Chondroitin Sulfate is used in the following Proprietary Formulas

Universal Animal Flex, Controlled Labs Orange Triad, NOW Glucosamine & Chondroitin with MSM, Optimum Glucosamine Plus CSA, Doctor's Best Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM, Anabolic Innovations Essentials + Joint Complex, Beverly Int. Joint Care, Biochem Glucosamine Chondroitin, Champion ProFlex Advanced, CNP Professional Pro Joint, Dymatize Joint Repair, Equiade Lube-All Plus, IronMagLabs Flex RX, Irwin Naturals 3-in-1 Joint Formula

References & Further Research

The benefit of chondroitin sulfate in patients with osteoarthritis is likely the result of a number of effects including its anti-inflammatory activity, the stimulation of the synthesis of proteoglycans and hyaluronic acid, and the decrease in catabolic activity of chondrocytes inhibiting the synthesis of proteolytic enzymes, nitric oxide, and other substances that contribute to damage cartilage matrix and cause death of articular chondrocytes. A recent review summarizes data from relevant reports describing the biochemical basis of the effect of chondroitin sulfate on osteoarthritis articular tissues. The rationale behind the use of chondroitin sulfate is based on the belief that osteoarthritis is associated with a local deficiency in some natural substances, including chondroitin sulfate.

Glucosamine, Chondroitin Sulfate, and the Two in Combination for Painful Knee Osteoarthritis
Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are used to treat osteoarthritis. The multicenter, double-blind, placebo- and celecoxib-controlled Glucosamine/chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT) evaluated their efficacy and safety as a treatment for knee pain from osteoarthritis. Overall data suggest Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate alone or in combination did not reduce pain effectively in the overall group of patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. Exploratory analyses suggest that the combination of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate may be effective in the subgroup of patients with moderate-to-severe knee pain.

NUTRACEUTICALS AS THERAPEUTIC AGENTS IN OSTEOARTHRITIS: The Role of Glucosamine, Chondroitin Sulfate, and Collagen Hydrolysate
A review of the literature reveals that a number of short-term studies, particularly studies in Europe and Asia, suggests that these agents have efficacy equal to that of currently used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs), although their onset of action is slower. The widespread use of these agents, in addition to short-term trials suggestive of efficacy, has prompted initiation of a larger trial by the Office of Alternative Medicine of the National Institutes of Health comparing their efficacy relative to placebo. This article defines current knowledge of glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and collagen hydrolysate to provide a perspective of the current status of these agents in the treatment of osteoarthritis.

The effect of glucosamine and/or chondroitin sulfate on the progression of knee osteoarthritis: A report from the glucosamine/chondroitin arthritis intervention trial
Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee causes significant morbidity and current medical treatment is limited to symptom relief, while therapies able to slow structural damage remain elusive. This study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate (CS), alone or in combination, as well as celecoxib and placebo on progressive loss of joint space width (JSW) in patients with knee OA. A 24-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, conducted at 9 sites in the United States as part of the Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT), enrolled 572 patients with knee OA who satisfied radiographic criteria (Kellgren/Lawrence [K/L] grade 2 or grade 3 changes and JSW of at least 2 mm at baseline). At 2 years, no treatment achieved a predefined threshold of clinically important difference in JSW loss as compared with placebo. However, knees with K/L grade 2 radiographic OA appeared to have the greatest potential for modification by these treatments.

Chondroitin Sulfate for International Customers

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