If you are looking for a supplement to boost the health of your joints, this could be it.
🕒 2 min read
Chondroitin sulphate is a structural substance that forms an integral part of the connective tissues binding the body together. It is an important component of cartilage, synovial fluid and ligaments.
How does it work?
Within joints, chondroitin sulphate binds to protein to form long chains of proteoglycans. These combine with hyaluronic acid to form 'springy' molecules that strengthen the cartilage matrix and increase its elasticity and resilience.
By attracting water, these proteoglycans also improve the cushioning action of synovial fluid, the joint's 'oil'.
Chondroitin also acts as a biological signal to inhibit the enzymes responsible for breaking down cartilage, increases the synthesis of type II collagen and is thought to have an anti-inflammatory action.
As you get older, cartilage cells secrete less and less chondroitin, which has been linked with reduced cartilage quality and the onset of degenerative changes that can be seen in ageing joints.
What can it help?
Joint health
Chondroitin sulphate has beneficial effects on several different types of cell found in joints, including chondrocytes (which secrete cartilage), synoviocytes (which secrete synovial fluid) and osteocytes (subchondral bone cells), which reduce symptoms and has structure modifying effects in osteoarthritis.
In the majority of studies, people taking chondroitin sulphate showed a significant reduction in cartilage loss compared with placebo, offering a useful, non-operative way to protect joint cartilage and delay the progression of osteoarthritis.
Longevity
The anti-inflammatory action of chondroitin may protect against a number of health conditions.
A study that followed over 77,000 people taking glucosamine and chondroitin for up to eight years found that the use of either supplement was associated with a decreased risk of mortality.
Those taking chondroitin (with or without glucosamine) were 14 per cent less likely to die than non-users from a broad number of illnesses, including respiratory disease and cancer.
High Strength Glucosamine & Chondroitin (ChondroMax)
Advanced glucosamine and chondroitin combination for joint health
- Glucosamine and chondroitin are found naturally in joints
- Premium 90% chondroitin sulphate for better absorption
- Shellfish-free glucosamine HCl and vitamin C for joints
Dosage: 1,200mg chondroitin per day.
Watchpoints: Look for supplements that provide 90 per cent chondroitin for the best value and effectiveness.
Perfect partners: Glucosamine, omega 3 fish oil and hyaluronic acid.