Chondroitin sulfate is a natural remedy used to treat arthritis and other medical conditions. It is found in human joints and cartilage and can be produced synthetically or from shark cartilage or bovine trachea. Scientific research on its effectiveness is mixed, but some studies show it can reduce pain and increase mobility in people with osteoarthritis. Chondroitin sulfate supplements are sold over-the-counter and should be purchased from a reputable source. It’s important to discuss any new medications, including supplements, with a doctor, especially for those with seafood or shellfish allergies or at risk of prostate cancer.
Chondroitin sulfate is a home remedy most frequently used to treat arthritis and reduce pain associated with osteoarthritis; however, it can also be used to treat bladder inflammation, psoriasis, various ophthalmological problems, and increase iron absorption in the body. It is commonly found in the normal joints and cartilage of the human body, such as the knees, hips, hands and feet. As a result, many people believe that taking chondroitin sulfate supplements will stimulate the formation of cartilage in the body and promote the repair of the body’s joints. It can be produced synthetically or naturally from shark cartilage or bovine trachea.
Although many individuals swear by the healing properties of chondroitin sulfate, scientific research has been sporadic on its effectiveness. Some studies show that the medical properties of chondroitin sulfate capsules are broken down in the intestines before they can even be absorbed by the body. As a result, the molecules are unlikely to actually build the body’s joints and cartilage.
In other studies, people who had a knee, hip, finger, or spine affected by osteoarthritis were given chondroitin sulfate. Reports from those studies showed that individuals taking the supplements had decreased pain, increased mobility, and required fewer medications than those not taking the supplement. While the results are promising, the studies only lasted six months, making them weak in the eyes of the scientific community. Even less scientific evidence is available for people who use the supplements to treat other medical conditions, such as bladder inflammation, psoriasis or eye problems.
Most pharmacies, supermarkets, and health food stores sell chondroitin sulfate supplements. Additionally, the supplements can be purchased through a variety of online websites. They are considered an over-the-counter form of alternative medicine and are not regulated. Therefore, it is essential to purchase the supplements from a reputable source. There are many scams, particularly through online stores, where people buy supplements only to find they have only minimal percentages of the drug in each capsule or have capsules that are high in impurities.
It’s important to discuss any new medications, including supplements, with a doctor. Because chondroitin sulfate often comes from shark cartilage, people with seafood or shellfish allergies should be careful when using the product. There have been reports of sun sensitivity, hives, and worsening asthma for some people who have taken the supplement. When taken over a long period of time, some people have complained of headaches, hair loss, chest pain, increased blood pressure and breathing problems associated with the product. Also, men at risk of or with prostate cancer shouldn’t take it as it may be linked to a risk of prostate cancer.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
