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Benefits of Glucosamine & Chondroitin for the Heart

Both glucosamine and chondroitin are popular nutritional supplements, readily available in grocery stores, drug stores and health food stores. Many times glucosomine and chondroitin are paired together to be taken as one pill for convenience, as they work in harmony with each other.

The benefits of these supplements are still being studied. In the past, they have been taken primarily to help with joint, muscle and arthritis pain. But is there evidence to support that it helps the heart?

  1. About Glucosamine

    • Glucosamine is made from glucose and glutamine, an amino acid. It is a naturally occurring compound in the body. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is typically found in healthy cartilage. It is very often taken in combination with chondroitin.

    About Chondroitin

    • First extracted and also purified sometime in the 1960s, most chondroitin is taken from natural sources, the Mayo Clinic says. It often comes from bovine trachea or from shark or beef cartilage. It can also be manufactured synthetically. Chondroitin is usually taken in conjunction with glucosamine.

    Possible Benefits for the Heart

    • Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are both important in the manufacturing of cartilage, which is why they are frequently used as supplements for those suffering from arthritis. As we age, our body produces less glucosamine, and a glucosomine/chondroitin supplement can help stimulate production.

      Healthy cartilage is essential for healthy heart valves. The primary benefit of a glucosamine and chondroitin supplement for the heart would be to help maintain healthy cartilage in heart valves. However, according to Mayoclinic.com, there is not a lot of evidence to support substantial benefits of glucosamine or chondroitin for the heart. In fact, it may be unwise for those with heart disease to use these supplements.

    Dosage

    • The typical dosage for glucosamine and chondroitin is 500 milligrams up to three times daily. Supplements can be ordered online and shipped to your home, or you can purchase them at your local drug store or natural foods store.

    Side Effects and Warnings

    • As with any supplement, always consult your family physician before using. Glucosamine and chondroitin have few substantial side effects, although some patients have experienced an increased heart rate. Overall, it is tolerated better by most people than standard anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen.

    Wise to Take for Your Heart?

    • As noted, although there are many health benefits to glucosamine and chondroitin for people with arthritis and joint/bone pain, there is not a lot of evidence that it is a good supplement for the heart.

      If you do decide to take it, you will want to decide whether the possible risks outweigh any small benefit it could possibly play in the health of your body and heart.

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