What is chondroitin?
Chondroitin is a cartilage component that contributes to its compressive strength. According to a 2017 poll in the United States, chondroitin (with or without glucosamine) was the most popular dietary supplement among adults aged 35 and older who had been diagnosed with osteoarthritis. It consists of a long unbranched polysaccharide chain with a repeating disaccharide structure of N-acetylgalactosamine (sulfated at positions 4 and 6) and glucuronic acid. It generates enough osmotic pressure to keep the collagen network in tension while also providing cartilage with resistant and elastic qualities.
Uses of Chondroitin
Osteoarthritis
Although a recent analysis of multiple studies indicated no advantage from using chondroitin alone, the results of several well-designed scientific studies indicate that chondroitin supplements may be a useful treatment for OA, especially OA of the knee or hip. Overall, the results of these trials indicate that chondroitin:
- Lowers OA discomfort
- Enhances the functional status of individuals with knee or hip OA
- Reduces stiffness and edema in the joints
- For up to three months following the cessation of medication, it relieves the symptoms of OA.
Bladder Conditions
According to one study, using chondroitin to irrigate the bladder or intravesicular chondroitin may help reduce interstitial cystitis symptoms. According to a single study, chondroitin administered orally may help lessen overactive bladder symptoms.
Others
Chondroitin has also been proposed as a treatment for osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, premature labor, and certain types of cancer, such as breast and colorectal malignancies. Nevertheless, no research has examined these assertions.
Mechanism of Action of Chondroitin
The macromolecule chondroitin is a very hydrophilic polysaccharide. Much of cartilage’s compressive resistance is attributed to its hydrocolloid characteristics. Chondroitin sulfate has been suggested to work by restoring the cartilage’s extracellular matrix, halting additional cartilage deterioration, and/or helping to compensate for dietary deficiencies in sulfur-containing amino acids, which are necessary building blocks for cartilage extracellular matrix molecules.
Ideal Dose of Chondroitin
Chondroitin sulfate is a typical form of chondroitin that is supplied in tablets or capsules. It is frequently coupled with manganese and glucosamine. The optimal dosage of chondroitin is unknown because it is not a proven therapeutic. 800 mg to 1200 mg taken in single or divided dosages for up to two years has been used in several studies for osteoarthritis.
Safety of Chondroitin
For most people, chondroitin appears to be harmless. Rarely do side effects occur. Headaches, mood swings, rash, hives, diarrhea, and other symptoms have been reported by some people. Stop using the product and consult a physician if you experience any negative effects.
Source of Commercial Chondroitin
Commercial chondroitin is made synthetically or from natural sources like the cartilage of sharks and cows.
Risks associated with Chondroitin
Some people worry that chondroitin can exacerbate the symptoms of asthma. According to a preliminary study, chondroitin may contribute to the recurrence or spread of prostate cancer. Supplements containing chondroitin sulfate have not demonstrated this effect. People who are allergic to shellfish have occasionally experienced hypersensitivity. People with bleeding issues should only use chondroitin under medical supervision because of its similarities to heparin. Larger, more current research investigations have refuted some early claims that chondroitin may influence blood sugar levels in diabetics.
References
Singh, J. A., Noorbaloochi, S., MacDonald, R., & Maxwell, L. J. (2015). Chondroitin for osteoarthritis. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (1).
Schiraldi, C., Cimini, D., & De Rosa, M. (2010). Production of chondroitin sulfate and chondroitin. Applied microbiology and biotechnology, 87, 1209-1220.
Lamari, F. N., & Karamanos, N. K. (2006). Structure of chondroitin sulfate. Advances in pharmacology, 53, 33-48.
Volpi, N. (2019). Chondroitin sulfate safety and quality. Molecules, 24(8), 1447.
Reichenbach, S., Sterchi, R., Scherer, M., Trelle, S., Bürgi, E., Bürgi, U., … & Jüni, P. (2007). Meta-analysis: chondroitin for osteoarthritis of the knee or hip. Annals of internal medicine, 146(8), 580-590.
