Aging joints and arthritis-related joint pain are challenges faced by millions worldwide. In fact, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 15 million people in the United States experience severe joint pain due to arthritis.
Such an issue can greatly affect anyone’s quality of life. After all, no one wants to be bothered with physical pain while doing day-to-day tasks. If you suspect that your joints are starting to feel the wear and tear associated with old age, what is there to do?
Aside from fundamental lifestyle changes like regular exercise and weight loss (to minimize the pressure on your joints), taking glucosamine and chondroitin is popular among those who want to give their joints some extra TLC. But how exactly do these supplements work? And more importantly, are they actually worth it?
Let’s find out!
Glucosamine and Chondroitin: What are they?
Glucosamine and chondroitin are both naturally-occurring substances in the human body. This means the body has its own supply of both. Glucosamine, which is made from fructose and glutamine, can be found in your joint fluid and other tissues. Meanwhile, chondroitin is primarily found in joint cartilage.
You might be thinking, if the body makes its own supply of these substances, then what’s the point of supplements?
Well, the body’s natural supply of glucosamine and chondroitin dwindles with age. Yes – unsurprisingly, production naturally slows down the older you get. To address this, many people turn to supplements for support.
Glucosamine and chondroitin are usually formulated together because they are believed to support joint health. These days, people take glucosamine and chondroitin to slow the loss of joint cartilage and aid in the treatment of arthritis.
Top Benefits of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Supplements
To support aging joints
As mentioned above, the body’s natural supply of glucosamine and chondroitin declines with age. As a result, your joint’s natural condition has a tendency to deteriorate over time. This explains why joint pain and other related issues are very common among the elderly.
If you want to protect your joints and ensure that they’ll be in good shape for longer, glucosamine and chondroitin supplements may help.
For overall joint health
One of the biggest reasons why people take glucosamine and chondroitin supplements is to help slow or even reverse cartilage degradation in the joints. Additionally, chondroitin is believed to improve the shock-absorbing capabilities of joint cartilage. The more resilient your cartilage is, the better it can resist the wear and tear of daily life.
Obviously, having healthier joints for longer can make a massive difference in your life. If you especially love outdoor activities or live an active lifestyle in general, healthy joints can spell the difference between debilitating pain and a comfortable hike. Even if you’re more of a homebody, the fact that you can confidently go about your day-to-day activities without worrying about your joints is a privilege that’s coveted by many.
To help with osteoarthritis management
Studies show that adults with osteoarthritis (OA) may experience a decrease in cartilage loss with regular glucosamine and chondroitin supplementation. Those who suffer from OA may also benefit from reduced pain and better joint functioning through these supplements.
Although more studies are needed to concretely determine the full impact of glucosamine and chondroitin on people with OA, the potential of these compounds in assisting in osteoarthritis management is evident. If you suspect that you’re at risk, glucosamine and chondroitin supplements may be a great addition to your arsenal of weapons against osteoarthritis.
The Bottom Line
Having aging joints is something that we all, unfortunately, have to eventually deal with. That said, it’s comforting to know that science is constantly looking for beneficial compounds that can help minimize joint damage and keep our joints in good shape.
Glucosamine and chondroitin didn’t become known as two of the most popular supplements for joint health for no reason. Combined with a healthy lifestyle, taking these supplements can help promote healthy, resilient joints that stand the test of time.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
