Glucosamine Sulfate vs. Chondroitin Sulfate

For some time, people have been using Glucosamine Sulfate (GS) to help fight arthritis and cartilage damage. Recently Chondroitin Sulfate (CS) has been added to the arsenal of those seeking to fight the ill effects of arthritis and other forms of cartilage damage. Are both effective? Is one better than the other? How much should I take? Stay tuned.

Glucosamine Sulfate
Studies have shown that GS helps manage the signs and symptoms of osteo-arthritis and other forms of cartilage damage. In particular studies showing that GS can decrease or block joint cartilage erosion. The "glucosamine" portion seems to aid in the synthesis of new cartilage where as the "sulfate" portion of GS has been found to stabilize the cartilage itself. These factors combined allow for the decrease in the signs and symptoms of arthritis and damage to the cartilage as well as an increase in the mobility of joints affected by arthritis or injury. The amounts taken by patients varied from 500-1500mg/day in patients under the age of 50.

Chondroitin Sulfate
Lately, we have found the emergence of GS products with the addition of CS. However, studies are showing that the Chondroitin sulfate molecule is too large to be absorbed by the body and only 13% gets absorbed versus 98% of GS, which is absorbed. This may explain why CS by itself does not seem to be as effective in decreasing the signs and symptoms of arthritis. The only benefit of adding CS to GS is that it sounds like you get more. In reality, you only pay more.

Some other agents which are presently being tested to determine their efficacy in treating arthritis in addition to GS are bromelain, devil's claw, curcumin, boswellia, white willow bark and ginger.

Chiropractic More importantly, the effects of the misalignment of the spine can be a causative factor in arthritis. Studies have shown that proper movement of vertebrae helps to supply the disc with nutrients. Without this supply of nutrients, the disc becomes weak. This in turn causes the disc to breakdown leading to degenerative disc disease and eventually arthritis. The process is similar to a flower not getting enough water. Over time, the flower wilts and eventually dies. Therefore, it is critical that you get your spine checked regularly to decrease your chances of getting arthritis. If need be, your chiropractor will also recommend certain exercises to help strengthen areas of your spine that have become weakened by arthritis or injury.