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Chondroitin Sulfate
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Chondroitin sulfate consists of repeating chains of molecules called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Chondroitin sulfate is a major constituent of cartilage, providing structure, holding water and nutrients, and allowing other molecules to move through cartilage—an important property, as there is no blood supply to cartilage.
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Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Osteoarthritis | 800 to 1,200 mg a day | Many trials have shown that supplementing with chondroitin sulfate reduces pain, increases joint mobility, and promotes healing within the joints. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Atherosclerosis | Refer to label instructions | Preliminary research shows that chondroitin sulfate may prevent atherosclerosis and may also prevent heart attacks in people who already have atherosclerosis. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Heart Attack | Refer to label instructions | Taking chondroitin sulfate may reduce the risk of heart attack in people with a history of heart disease or who are at risk for heart attack. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
High Cholesterol | Refer to label instructions | Chondroitin sulfate has lowered serum cholesterol levels in preliminary trials. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Kidney Stones | Refer to label instructions | Chondroitin sulfate may help reduce the risk of kidney stone formation. One trial found that glycosamionoglycans significantly lowered urinary oxalate levels, which reduces the risk of stone formation. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Sprains and Strains | Refer to label instructions | Chondroitin sulfate may promote wound healing by providing the raw material needed by the body to manufacture molecules found in skin, tendons, ligaments, and joints. |
| ||
Also indexed as:
- chondroitin,
- chondroitin and glucosamine,
- condroitin and glucosamine,
- condroitin sulfate,
- degenerative arthritis,
- degenerative joint disease,
- DJD,
- osteoarthritis,
- osteoarthritis of ankle,
- osteoarthritis of ankle and foot,
- osteoarthritis of elbow,
- osteoarthritis of foot,
- osteoarthritis of forearm,
- osteoarthritis of hand,
- osteoarthritis of hip,
- osteoarthritis of knee,
- osteoarthritis of lower leg,
- osteoarthritis of pelvis,
- osteoarthritis of pelvis and thigh,
- osteoarthritis of shoulder,
- osteoarthritis of thigh,
- osteoarthritis of upper arm,
- osteoarthritis of wrist
About this treatment
How to Use It
For atherosclerosis, researchers have sometimes started therapy using very high amounts, such as 5 grams twice per day with meals, lowering the amount to 500 mg three times per day after a few months. Before taking such high amounts, people should consult a doctor. For osteoarthritis, a typical level is 400 mg three times per day. Oral chondroitin sulfate is rapidly absorbed in humans when it is dissolved in water prior to ingestion. Approximately 12% of chondroitin sulfate taken by mouth becomes available to the joint tissues from the blood.
Where to Find It
The only significant food source of chondroitin sulfate is animal cartilage.
Possible Deficiencies
Because the body makes chondroitin, the possibility of a dietary deficiency remains uncertain. Nevertheless, chondroitin sulfate may be reduced in joint cartilage affected by osteoarthritis and possibly other forms of arthritis.
Last Review: 05-11-2011
Copyright © 2011 Aisle7. All rights reserved. www.Aisle7.net
Learn more about Aisle7, the company.
The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2011.
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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