What are the benefits and risks of glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM for arthritis. How do these supplements work to alleviate joint pain. Are there any potential side effects or interactions to be aware of. What does current research say about their effectiveness.

Understanding Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Building Blocks for Cartilage

Glucosamine and chondroitin are naturally occurring substances in the body that play a crucial role in maintaining healthy cartilage. As components of normal cartilage, these compounds are believed to stimulate the body’s production of new cartilage tissue. This property has made them popular supplements among individuals seeking relief from arthritis symptoms, particularly osteoarthritis.

How do glucosamine and chondroitin work? These substances act as the raw materials for cartilage synthesis. By providing the body with an additional supply of these building blocks, the supplements may potentially support joint health and alleviate arthritis-related discomfort.

The Science Behind Glucosamine and Chondroitin

While many arthritis sufferers have reported positive effects from using glucosamine and chondroitin supplements, the scientific evidence remains mixed. Several studies have demonstrated beneficial effects on osteoarthritis pain, suggesting that these supplements may offer relief for some individuals. However, other research, including the NIH-sponsored Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT), did not show significant benefits for the primary outcome of reducing pain.

A recent study further complicated the picture by finding that glucosamine did not slow down cartilage damage or reduce knee pain. Despite these conflicting results, many physicians still recommend a trial period of glucosamine supplementation. If no apparent improvement is observed within three months, it may be reasonable to discontinue use.

Navigating the Supplement Market: Choosing the Right Brand

With numerous brands of glucosamine and chondroitin available on the market, selecting the right product can be challenging. How can consumers ensure they’re getting a high-quality supplement? Here are some key considerations:

• Stick with reputable manufacturers and well-established companies
• Choose products from brands you recognize or research the company’s reputation
• Consider how long the company has been in business and how long stores have stocked the brand
• Be aware that the FDA regulates supplements as food rather than drugs, meaning manufacturers are not required to prove safety or efficacy before selling their products

Is there a way to guarantee the purity and consistency of glucosamine and chondroitin supplements? Unfortunately, there is no government monitoring system in place to ensure the quality of these products. This makes it even more important to choose supplements from trusted sources and to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new regimen.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions for Glucosamine and Chondroitin Use

While glucosamine and chondroitin are generally well-tolerated, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and take necessary precautions. What are the most common side effects associated with these supplements?

• Nausea
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Heartburn
• Increased intestinal gas

Who should exercise caution when considering glucosamine and chondroitin supplements?

1. People with diabetes: Glucosamine may affect blood sugar levels
2. Individuals taking blood-thinning medications: These supplements may have a blood-thinning effect
3. Those with shellfish allergies: Glucosamine is often extracted from shellfish
4. Pregnant or nursing women: The effects on developing fetuses and infants are not yet known
5. Children: These supplements are not recommended for use in growing children

It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those taking other medications.

MSM: An Emerging Player in Arthritis Supplementation

Methylsulfonylmethane, commonly known as MSM, is another supplement that has gained popularity for its potential to alleviate arthritis symptoms. What is MSM, and how does it work in the body?

MSM is a natural sulfur compound found in all living organisms. Sulfur plays a vital role in maintaining healthy connective tissue and joint function. It is believed to possess pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an attractive option for those seeking relief from arthritis and other conditions.

Sources and Supplementation of MSM

While MSM occurs naturally in various foods, including meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, and grains, it is often destroyed during food processing. This has led to the development of MSM supplements, which have become increasingly popular in recent years.

Can MSM supplements effectively replace the MSM lost through food processing? While supplementation may help increase MSM levels in the body, more research is needed to fully understand its bioavailability and effectiveness when taken in supplement form.

The Effectiveness of MSM for Arthritis: What Does the Research Say?

Many individuals report experiencing pain relief after incorporating MSM supplements into their regimen. However, the scientific evidence supporting its use for arthritis is still emerging. What do current studies suggest about MSM’s effectiveness?

Some studies have reported improvements in pain levels among participants taking MSM supplements. However, the body of research is not yet robust enough to draw definitive conclusions. More comprehensive and long-term studies are needed to fully evaluate MSM’s potential as an arthritis supplement.

Is MSM effective for conditions other than arthritis? While MSM is sometimes promoted for a wide range of conditions, including allergies and even snoring, the evidence for these applications is limited. As with its use for arthritis, more research is required to substantiate these claims.

Safety Considerations and Potential Side Effects of MSM

As with any supplement, it’s important to consider the potential risks and side effects associated with MSM use. What should individuals be aware of when considering MSM supplementation?

• Generally well-tolerated: MSM is considered safe for most people when taken in appropriate doses
• Possible mild side effects: Some users may experience gastrointestinal discomfort, headaches, or skin reactions
• Interactions with medications: MSM may interact with certain drugs, including blood thinners and some cancer treatments
• Limited long-term safety data: While short-term use appears safe, the long-term effects of MSM supplementation are not yet fully understood

Individuals with multiple health conditions should be particularly cautious when considering MSM supplements. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially for those with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications.

Integrating Supplements into a Comprehensive Arthritis Management Plan

While glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM supplements may offer potential benefits for some individuals with arthritis, it’s important to view them as part of a broader approach to managing the condition. How can these supplements be integrated into a comprehensive arthritis treatment plan?

1. Consult with a healthcare provider: Discuss the potential benefits and risks of supplementation in the context of your individual health status and current treatments
2. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Incorporate regular exercise, maintain a healthy weight, and follow a balanced diet to support overall joint health
3. Consider other treatment modalities: Explore physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other non-pharmacological approaches to managing arthritis symptoms
4. Monitor progress: Keep track of your symptoms and any changes you notice after starting supplements, and report these to your healthcare provider
5. Be patient: It may take several weeks or months to notice any potential benefits from supplements

Can supplements replace conventional arthritis treatments? It’s important to note that while supplements may offer additional support, they should not be viewed as a replacement for proven medical treatments or lifestyle modifications. Always work closely with your healthcare team to develop a comprehensive management plan tailored to your individual needs.

The Future of Arthritis Supplementation: Ongoing Research and Developments

As interest in natural approaches to managing arthritis continues to grow, research into supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM is ongoing. What can we expect in the future of arthritis supplementation?

• More extensive clinical trials: Larger, longer-term studies may provide clearer insights into the efficacy and safety of these supplements
• Improved formulations: Research may lead to the development of more bioavailable or effective supplement formulations
• Exploration of synergistic effects: Studies may investigate how these supplements interact with each other and with conventional treatments
• Personalized approaches: Future research may help identify which individuals are most likely to benefit from specific supplements

How might advances in our understanding of arthritis pathophysiology impact supplement development? As our knowledge of the underlying mechanisms of arthritis grows, researchers may be able to develop more targeted and effective supplement formulations. This could potentially lead to more personalized and effective approaches to managing arthritis symptoms through supplementation.

In conclusion, while glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM supplements offer potential benefits for some individuals with arthritis, the scientific evidence remains mixed. As research continues, it’s crucial for individuals considering these supplements to work closely with their healthcare providers, carefully weigh the potential benefits and risks, and integrate supplementation into a comprehensive arthritis management plan. By staying informed and taking a balanced approach, individuals with arthritis can make educated decisions about incorporating these supplements into their treatment regimens.

Arthritis Supplements: Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and MSM

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• What Are Glucosamine and Chondroitin?
• Which Brand of Arthritis Supplement Should I Use?
• Who Should Not Take These Arthritis Supplements?
• What Are the Side Effects of Glucosamine and Chondroitin?
• What Is MSM and Can It Help My Arthritis?
• What Are the Side Effects of MSM?
• More

Many people with arthritis — especially osteoarthritis — use supplements in their diet to ease the pain of arthritis. Glucosamine and chondroitin are the most well-known. Methyl sulfonylmethane (MSM) is another supplement used to ease the pain of arthritis, but it has not been through as much scientific testing.

It is important to check with your doctor before starting any new treatments. Your doctor can review the other medications you are taking and help you decide whether or not these arthritis supplements are right for you. In addition, always follow the instructions on the medication label. Do not take more of the supplements than is recommended.

Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are components of normal cartilage. In the body, they are the building blocks for cartilage and appear to stimulate the body to make more cartilage.

There are conflicting studies on glucosamine and chondroitin, some demonstrating a beneficial effect on osteoarthritis pain. Others, including the NIH-sponsored multicenter Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT), did not show benefit for the primary outcome of reducing pain. More recently another study also found that glucosamine did not slow down cartilage damage or reduce knee pain.

The supplements, which are available in pharmacies and health food stores without a prescription, are well-tolerated and appear to be safe. However, there are no long-term studies to confirm their long-term safety and effectiveness. Keep in mind that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates supplements, but treats them like food rather than drugs; supplement manufacturers are not required to prove their products are safe or effective before selling them in the marketplace.

Many physicians may still recommend a trial of glucosamine at this point, and if there is not apparent improvement by three months, it would be reasonable to stop glucosamine. Research is ongoing.

There are many different brands of glucosamine and chondroitin, which are usually sold together as one arthritis supplement. Again, there is no government monitoring to ensure the purity of these products.

In order to assure that you get a consistent dose of the supplements, stick with a reputable manufacturer; choose products sold by large and well-established companies. If you don’t recognize a brand name, ask about the company’s reputation, how long it has been in business, and how long the store has stocked the brand.

People with diabetes should use caution when taking glucosamine because it may raise blood sugar. People taking blood-thinning medication (anticoagulants) should check with their doctors before taking glucosamine and chondroitin.

These arthritis supplements may also have a blood-thinning effect, so people taking these supplements in addition to an anticoagulant may have to have their blood tested more often. People who are allergic to shellfish also should consult their doctors before using glucosamine and chondroitin. Glucosamine is extracted from a substance in shellfish.

The effects of these supplements on a growing child or developing baby are not yet known. For that reason, glucosamine and chondroitin are not recommended for children, women who are pregnant, women who are nursing, and women who could become pregnant.

These arthritis supplements are generally well-tolerated. However, side effects can occur. The most commonly reported side effects of glucosamine and chondroitin include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Heartburn
• Increased intestinal gas

MSM, or methylsulfonylmethane, is a supplement that is used to try to help a wide range of conditions, including arthritis, allergies, and even snoring.

MSM is an odorless and tasteless natural sulfur compound found in all living things. Sulfur is needed by the body for healthy connective tissue and joint function and has purported pain-quashing and anti-inflammatory properties.

While MSM is found in many foods — including meat, fish, certain fruit, vegetables, and grains — it is destroyed when foods are processed. MSM supplements have become increasingly popular in recent years and many people feel they have had some pain relief since taking MSM. Although some studies have reported improvement in pain with MSM, more research needs to be done to support its use as an arthritis supplement.

Those patients with multiple health conditions should be aware that current prescription medication may interact with dietary supplements, and they should consult their doctor so that side effects can be best monitored. Moreover, as with many supplements that have not been studied, the long-term benefits and safety of the chemical are unknown.

Talk to your doctor before taking MSM.

MSM is considered very safe, and side effects are rare. Side effects that have been reported include:

• Diarrhea
• Skin rash
• Headache
• Fatigue

Top Picks

Arthritis Supplements: Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and MSM

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• What Are Glucosamine and Chondroitin?
• Which Brand of Arthritis Supplement Should I Use?
• Who Should Not Take These Arthritis Supplements?
• What Are the Side Effects of Glucosamine and Chondroitin?
• What Is MSM and Can It Help My Arthritis?
• What Are the Side Effects of MSM?
• More

Many people with arthritis — especially osteoarthritis — use supplements in their diet to ease the pain of arthritis. Glucosamine and chondroitin are the most well-known. Methyl sulfonylmethane (MSM) is another supplement used to ease the pain of arthritis, but it has not been through as much scientific testing.

It is important to check with your doctor before starting any new treatments. Your doctor can review the other medications you are taking and help you decide whether or not these arthritis supplements are right for you. In addition, always follow the instructions on the medication label. Do not take more of the supplements than is recommended.

Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are components of normal cartilage. In the body, they are the building blocks for cartilage and appear to stimulate the body to make more cartilage.

There are conflicting studies on glucosamine and chondroitin, some demonstrating a beneficial effect on osteoarthritis pain. Others, including the NIH-sponsored multicenter Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT), did not show benefit for the primary outcome of reducing pain. More recently another study also found that glucosamine did not slow down cartilage damage or reduce knee pain.

The supplements, which are available in pharmacies and health food stores without a prescription, are well-tolerated and appear to be safe. However, there are no long-term studies to confirm their long-term safety and effectiveness. Keep in mind that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates supplements, but treats them like food rather than drugs; supplement manufacturers are not required to prove their products are safe or effective before selling them in the marketplace.

Many physicians may still recommend a trial of glucosamine at this point, and if there is not apparent improvement by three months, it would be reasonable to stop glucosamine. Research is ongoing.

There are many different brands of glucosamine and chondroitin, which are usually sold together as one arthritis supplement. Again, there is no government monitoring to ensure the purity of these products.

In order to assure that you get a consistent dose of the supplements, stick with a reputable manufacturer; choose products sold by large and well-established companies. If you don’t recognize a brand name, ask about the company’s reputation, how long it has been in business, and how long the store has stocked the brand.

People with diabetes should use caution when taking glucosamine because it may raise blood sugar. People taking blood-thinning medication (anticoagulants) should check with their doctors before taking glucosamine and chondroitin.

These arthritis supplements may also have a blood-thinning effect, so people taking these supplements in addition to an anticoagulant may have to have their blood tested more often. People who are allergic to shellfish also should consult their doctors before using glucosamine and chondroitin. Glucosamine is extracted from a substance in shellfish.

The effects of these supplements on a growing child or developing baby are not yet known. For that reason, glucosamine and chondroitin are not recommended for children, women who are pregnant, women who are nursing, and women who could become pregnant.

These arthritis supplements are generally well-tolerated. However, side effects can occur. The most commonly reported side effects of glucosamine and chondroitin include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Heartburn
• Increased intestinal gas

MSM, or methylsulfonylmethane, is a supplement that is used to try to help a wide range of conditions, including arthritis, allergies, and even snoring.

MSM is an odorless and tasteless natural sulfur compound found in all living things. Sulfur is needed by the body for healthy connective tissue and joint function and has purported pain-quashing and anti-inflammatory properties.

While MSM is found in many foods — including meat, fish, certain fruit, vegetables, and grains — it is destroyed when foods are processed. MSM supplements have become increasingly popular in recent years and many people feel they have had some pain relief since taking MSM. Although some studies have reported improvement in pain with MSM, more research needs to be done to support its use as an arthritis supplement.

Those patients with multiple health conditions should be aware that current prescription medication may interact with dietary supplements, and they should consult their doctor so that side effects can be best monitored. Moreover, as with many supplements that have not been studied, the long-term benefits and safety of the chemical are unknown.

Talk to your doctor before taking MSM.

MSM is considered very safe, and side effects are rare. Side effects that have been reported include:

• Diarrhea
• Skin rash
• Headache
• Fatigue

Top Picks

Does glucosamine work? Benefits, dosage and side effects

2020-10-01 19:55:23
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Glucosamine is a naturally occurring substance in the human body and a popular dietary supplement.

Most often used for the treatment of diseases of the bones and joints, as well as for the treatment of some other inflammatory diseases.

This article discusses the benefits, dosage and side effects of glucosamine.

What is glucosamine?

Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound chemically classified as an amino sugar.

It serves as a building material for many tissues of the human body, but, first of all, it supports the cartilage tissue in the joints.

Glucosamine is also found in the tissues of certain animals, shellfish, animal bones and mushrooms. Glucosamine supplements are often made from these natural sources.

Glucosamine is often used to both treat and prevent joint conditions such as osteoarthritis. It can be taken orally or topically as a cream or ointment.

CONCLUSIONS

Glucosamine is a chemical found in both human and animal tissues. In the human body, it helps form cartilage and is commonly used as a dietary supplement to treat joint conditions such as osteoarthritis.

Glucosamine can reduce inflammation

Glucosamine is often used as an adjunct to relieve various inflammations.

Although glucosamine’s mechanisms of action are still poorly understood, it appears that it may actually reduce inflammation.

One in vitro (test tube) study showed significant anti-inflammatory effects of glucosamine when applied to cells involved in bone formation.

Much of the research on glucosamine comes from supplementation with chondroitin, a compound similar to glucosamine that is also involved in building body cells and maintaining cartilage health.

A study of more than 200 people found that glucosamine supplementation reduced two biochemical markers of inflammation, CRP and PGE, by 28% and 24%. However, these results were not statistically significant. It is worth noting that the same study found a 36% decrease in these markers in people who took chondroitin at the same time. This result was really impressive.

Other studies confirm these findings. But many participants who took chondroitin also took glucosamine.

Thus, it remains unclear whether the results are due to chondroitin alone or a combination of both supplements taken together. Ultimately, more research is needed on the role of glucosamine in reducing inflammatory markers in the body.

CONCLUSIONS

It’s not entirely clear how glucosamine works in treating disease, but some research suggests it may reduce inflammation, especially when taken with chondroitin.

Glucosamine supports joint health

Glucosamine is produced in the human body. One of its main functions is to support healthy joints and cartilage.

Articular cartilage is a type of smooth white tissue that covers bones where they meet to form joints. Cartilage, together with a lubricating fluid called synovium, allows bones to move freely in relation to each other, minimizing friction and providing painless movement in the joints.

Glucosamine helps form several chemical compounds involved in the formation of articular cartilage and synovial fluid.

Some research suggests that supplementing with glucosamine can protect joint tissue by preventing cartilage breakdown.

One small study in 41 cyclists found that up to 3 grams of glucosamine daily reduced collagen breakdown in the knees by 27% versus 8% in the placebo group.

Another small study found that the ratio of collagen breakdown to collagen synthesis was significantly reduced in the joints of soccer players who received 3 grams of glucosamine daily for three months.

These results show that glucosamine has a protective effect. However, more research is needed.

CONCLUSIONS

Glucosamine is involved in the construction of joint tissues. Of course, more research is needed, but there is already evidence that supplementing with glucosamine can protect joints from damage.

Glucosamine is often used to treat bone and joint disorders

Glucosamine is commonly taken to treat various bone and joint disorders.

This substance has been studied for its ability to treat the symptoms and progression of diseases such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis. Multiple studies show that daily glucosamine sulfate supplementation can provide effective long-term treatment for osteoarthritis, pain reduction, joint space maintenance, and overall slowing of disease progression.

Some studies have shown a significant reduction in the incidence of rheumatoid arthritis in mice treated with various forms of glucosamine.

A human study did not show any major change in the progression of rheumatoid arthritis with glucosamine. However, participants in the study reported a significant reduction in symptoms.

Some early studies in osteoporotic mice have also identified the potential for glucosamine supplementation to improve bone strength.

While these results are encouraging, more human studies are needed to understand the mechanisms of action and calculate glucosamine dosing in joint and bone disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Although glucosamine is often used to treat various bone and joint conditions, more research is needed on its effects.

Use of glucosamine to treat other conditions

Although people take glucosamine to treat a wide range of chronic inflammatory conditions, scientific evidence to support its benefits is lacking.

Interstitial Cystitis

Glucosamine is widely promoted as a treatment for interstitial cystitis, a condition associated with glycosaminoglycan deficiency. Since glucosamine is the precursor of this compound, it is suggested that glucosamine supplementation may help control the disease.

Unfortunately, there is currently no reliable scientific evidence to support this theory.

Inflammatory bowel disease

Like interstitial cystitis, inflammatory bowel disease is associated with glycosaminoglycan deficiency.

There is currently insufficient scientific evidence to support the theory that glucosamine can treat IBD. However, a study in mice with IBD found that taking glucosamine can reduce inflammation.

Ultimately, more research is needed to draw any definitive conclusions.

Multiple sclerosis

Some sources claim that glucosamine can be an effective treatment for multiple sclerosis. However, there are no supporting studies either.

One study evaluated the effect of using glucosamine sulfate along with conventional therapy for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. The results showed no significant effect of glucosamine on relapse rates or disease progression.

Glaucoma

It is believed that glaucoma can be treated with glucosamine.

Some early research has shown that glucosamine sulfate may support eye health by reducing inflammation and antioxidant effects on the retina.

However, another study found that taking glucosamine can harm people with glaucoma.

In general, the existing data are contradictory.

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction

Some sources claim that glucosamine is an effective treatment for TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction. However, there is not enough research to support this claim.

One study showed a significant reduction in markers of pain and inflammation, as well as an increase in jaw mobility in participants who received a combination supplement of glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin.

Another small study found no significant effect of glucosamine hydrochloride supplementation in people with TMJ dysfunction. However, a significant reduction in soreness in the long term has been reported.

Results are promising but do not contain sufficient data to draw any definitive conclusions. More research is required.

CONCLUSIONS

Although glucosamine is often regarded as an effective treatment for a wide range of conditions, there is no definitive evidence of benefit.

Does glucosamine really work?

Despite widespread claims of glucosamine’s beneficial effects in the treatment of many diseases, the available research supports its benefit only in a narrow range of conditions.

Currently, the most compelling evidence is for the use of glucosamine sulfate in the treatment of osteoarthritis. However, this may not help everyone.

Based on available data, the likelihood that glucose will be effective in the treatment of other diseases or inflammatory processes is less high.

If you want to take glucosamine, choose a quality supplement because your health depends on it. In some countries, the nutritional supplement market is very loosely regulated. Therefore, labels should not be blindly trusted. It’s always best to check for third-party certifications to make sure you’re getting exactly what you pay for. Manufacturers who test the quality of their products by a third party tend to hold themselves to higher standards.

ConsumerLab, NSF International, and US Pharmacopeia (USP) are a few independent companies that provide certification services. If you see one of their logos on the packaging, it’s probably good quality.

CONCLUSIONS

Most studies support the use of glucosamine sulfate solely for the treatment of symptoms of osteoarthritis. For other diseases, it is unlikely to be effective.

Dosage and Presentation

The standard dosage of glucosamine is 1500 mg per day, which can be taken as a single dose or in several smaller doses throughout the day.

Glucosamine supplements are made from natural sources such as shellfish or mushrooms, or artificially produced in a laboratory.

Glucosamine supplements come in two forms:

• Glucosamine sulfate
• Glucosamine hydrochloride

Sometimes glucosamine sulfate is also sold in combination with chondroitin sulfate.

Most scientific evidence points to the greatest effectiveness of glucosamine sulfate, and glucosamine sulfate in combination with chondroitin.

CONCLUSIONS

Glucosamine is usually taken at 1500 mg per day. Of the available forms of glucosamine sulfate – with or without chondroitin – is probably the most effective.

Risks and side effects

Glucosamine supplements are likely to be safe for most people. However, some risks still exist.

Possible adverse reactions:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Heartburn
• Abdominal pain

Glucosamine is contraindicated during pregnancy and if you are breastfeeding, as there is no data on its safety.

Glucosamine may make it difficult to control blood sugar in people with diabetes, although the risk is relatively small. If you have diabetes or are taking diabetes medication, check with your doctor before taking glucosamine.

CONCLUSIONS

Glucosamine appears to be safe for most people, but some mild gastrointestinal disturbances have been reported. If you have diabetes, glucosamine can make it difficult to control your blood sugar.

GENERAL FINDINGS

Glucosamine is naturally produced in the body and plays a vital role in the formation and maintenance of joint health.

Although glucosamine is used to treat a variety of joint, bone, and inflammatory conditions such as IBD, interstitial cystitis, and temporomandibular joint dysfunction, most of the existing research supports its efficacy only in the treatment of osteoarthritis.

It is safe for most people at doses up to 1500 mg per day, but may cause mild side effects.

If you want to treat osteoarthritis, you may want to consider taking glucosamine supplements, but be sure to check with your doctor first.

21st Century Health Care Glucosamine Chondroitin Complex Plus MSM – “Glucosamine + Chondroitin + MSM = effect + side effect. »

The purchase of a dietary supplement from the American brand 21st Century Glucosamine and Chondroitin plus MSM was not a spontaneous purchase, but a necessity to maintain a working and painless condition.

I have been drinking similar remedies for many years according to indications, I change them and alternate them, otherwise there is no way. From my experience, I can say that our, domestic remedies were all working for me at the initial stages of treatment and I used them for several years, and now I buy something, but at this stage, not all of them give me a noticeable effect, so something I order from Iherb.

Packaging : plastic jar with flip-top lid and protective membrane underneath.

I bought 80 tablets. There are packages of 80-120-160-240 tablets.

Place of purchase : Iherb website.

Initial data : arthrosis of the hip joints with experience, there are problems with ligaments and tendons, and my joints are much older than myself. For this unfortunate reason, I constantly need to take maintenance products on the recommendation of a doctor.

Composition :

It should be noted that the dosage of active ingredients here is rather big, so I was afraid to drink like this from the bay – floundering, without consulting the attending physician, and as it turned out, it was not in vain.

In addition to Glucosamine, Chondroitin and MSM tablets, there are other ingredients.

Why :

Glucosamine Chondroitin Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) Triple Complex combines glucosamine hydrochloride and additional nutrients to help support joints and cartilage.

Chondroitin is a polysaccharide that is similar in composition to cartilage and connective tissue in the body. It relieves inflammation and pain, works as a lubricant in the joints, and provides strength. Accelerates the processes of restoration of cartilage cells. Glucosamine is found in cartilage and connective tissues and helps bone tissue store calcium. If it is not enough in the body, then the spine, bones and joints suffer.

MSM – Methylsulfonylmethane, an organic sulfur-containing compound, in the right dosage can reduce the inflammatory process in the joints, improve blood circulation, relieve pain associated with inflammatory processes in the joints.

The combination of Glucosamine, Chondroitin and MSM is recommended for osteochondrosis, osteoarthritis of large joints, as well as for intense physical exertion.

Performance and user experience .

The tablets are very large, smooth, dark in color, it was inconvenient for me to swallow them, I broke them into two parts, plus a large amount of water was required. In addition to their size, they were also smelly.

The dosage recommended by the manufacturer is 2 tablets a day after meals, but on the advice of a doctor, I took one tablet, firstly, the doctor considered such doses to be unnecessary for me, and secondly, it is not known how my body will react.

What did I get during the month of taking:

• The crunches, clicks and knocking in the joints decrease, that’s a fact.
• The mobility of the limbs has improved, the joints seem to be lubricated with oil.
• Morning stiffness in diseased joints, as well as in the feet, has disappeared, the need to “disperse” or stretch has disappeared.
• Insignificant pain sensations in the joints are reduced, such as when the joint seems to “feel”, aching, a little worried. No dietary supplement can cope with severe or moderate pain, so you should not hope, it is only an auxiliary, supportive therapy.
• BAA had no effect on moderate pain in the ligaments, in general.

All this, of course, could not but rejoice, but it turned out that in addition to the pleasant, you can also find something unpleasant, namely side effects:

• , a hard aftertaste that literally haunted me day and night, not disappearing for a minute. The taste of food has changed, appetite has begun to disappear. This vile taste could not be removed, seized, washed down, chewed. After the abolition of Glucosamine and Chondroitin with MSM, I still felt this aftertaste for a whole week, but gradually it subsided.
• I was visited by a long-forgotten heartburn, which I hadn’t thought about for quite some time. Heartburn disappeared immediately after the abolition of dietary supplements.

I decided to drink the rest after a very long time, this time there were no side effects, I assume that the intake period was just shorter and they did not have time to develop.

Total : you can, but be careful.