Glucosamine chondroitin supplements are used to improve and maintain joint health. Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements are also the most common treatment for osteoarthritis. According to the National Institutes of Health, glucosamine is an amino sugar that the body creates and distributes in cartilage and other connective tissue; chondroitin is a complex carbohydrate that helps cartilage to retain water.
Unregulated
Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements are unregulated by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which means that there are no government recommendations for healthy intake levels. Without proper recommendations, users run the risk of overdosing. Common side effects of an overdose are gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and cramps.
Glucosamine Side Effects
Glucosamine is predominantly made from shellfish and can cause severe allergic reactions for those with allergies to shellfish. Common symptoms of allergic reactions are breathing difficulties, skin irritations, swollen throat and rashes.
Glucosamine can cause fluctuations in insulin and blood levels because it is a sugar that the body is unable to break down into glucose. These fluctuating levels can cause serious concerns for diabetics.
Chondroitin Side Effects
There have been very few reported side effects of chondroitin other than possible allergic reactions, gastrointestinal discomfort and elevated blood pressure. Chondroitin has been reported to enhance the effects of blood thinners. There have been concerns over the possibility of mad cow disease since chondroitin supplements are commonly made from cow cartilage. Currently, there are no scientific studies to validate these concerns.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects of glucosamine chondroitin supplements are nausea, upset stomach, indigestion and heartburn. These side effects are typically seen in users who have consumed too much glucosamine chondroitin or have sensitive stomachs.
Warning
Consult a physician before taking any dietary supplement. Do not take glucosamine chondroitin if you are pregnant, suffer from diabetes, are overweight, are on a low salt intake or suffer from bleeding disorders like hemophilia. Glucosamine chondroitin supplements can possibly have adverse reactions to medications.
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