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What Is Chondroitin?

As you age, your body can begin to break down from use. Your joints may ache and feel stiff. You may experience a reduced ability to function. Chondroitin is a supplement that has been studied to help combat these symptoms of aging and osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is the breakdown of cartilage as we age. Though there are some promising benefits of chondroitin, you must be aware of the risks and precautions as well. Seek the guidance of your doctor before introducing this or any supplement to your diet.

  1. Definition

    • Chondroitin naturally occurs in the human body. It is a major component of cartilage, which helps to cushion the joints. Chondroitin helps produce new cartilage and stop enzymes from breaking cartilage down. Currently, the only way to add chondroitin to your system is through supplements. According to the Mayo Clinic, chondroitin sulfate was first extracted and purified in the 1960s. Now it is made from sources such as bovine and shark cartilage.

    Uses

    • Chondroitin can be used to treat a variety of diseases. It is widely used to treat osteoarthritis. Studies have found that chondroitin is beneficial because it reduces pain, swelling and stiffness. Because of this relief, it helps improve the functioning of people with the disease. Researchers are studying chondroitin for possible use in helping reduce the symptoms of overactive bladder as well as in heart disease, Alzheimer's disease and osteoporosis.

    Side Effects

    • In double-blind, placebo-controlled studies conducted by the University of Utah School of Medicine, sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, side effects of chondroitin use were minimal. The most common complaint was mild stomach upset. Dr. Steven D. Ehrlich, N.M.D., considers chondroitin safe for short-term use. There is limited data on long-term use and what side effects may come with increased duration of use. Short-term use is considered anything under 3 years, according to the Mayo Clinic.

    Interactions

    • If you are currently taking any medications, check with your doctor before adding a chondroitin supplement to your diet so that she can monitor you closely. Some medications, such as blood thinners and anti-inflammatory drugs, can interact with chondroitin. Pregnant women, nursing mothers and children should not take chondroitin because safety studies have not been conducted for these groups.

    Oversight

    • Chondroitin can be considered a dietary supplement and is not strictly regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Dietary supplements are regulated as food items instead of drug products and aren't required to pass safety or efficacy testing before being marketed.

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