Chondroitin is an organic chemical compound belonging to the group of glycosaminoglycans. It is one of the main components of the articular cartilage responsible for the elimination of friction between the elements in contact with each other. Chondroitin can be used as a drug or dietary supplement.
Chondroitin – action
Chondroitin, which we know as a drug, is characterized by excellent absorption from the gastrointestinal tract. Chondroitin protects the joints and additionally allows them to move safely. Among its properties, we can find, for example, the production of a substance that absorbs the influence of external forces. Chondroitin also has an analgesic effect. Thanks to it, the joints have much greater strength and flexibility. It is worth noting that it is an endogenous substance – that is, produced by the body.
As a rule, the human body does not lack chondroitin, but there are situations in which we can talk about its excessive consumption. It happens when our joints are exposed to frequent and intense movement. If we are aware that this situation also applies to us, it is worth taking chondroitin. It is she, in combination with glucosamine, has been recommended for many years for rheumatic diseases.
We can take chondroitin prophylactically during the period of increased physical activity. Thanks to this, we will protect our joints against injuries and deficiencies of intercellular fluid. We can find chondroitin in various preparations on sale. There are both drugs and dietary supplements on the market. If we want good results, it is best to choose a drug. Thanks to this, we are sure about the amount of the substance contained in the tablet. When reaching for a supplement, the dose is usually too small, the use of which will not bring any benefits.
There are many combinations of active substances on the market. The choice should depend on the ailment we are struggling with. Certainly, we will find preparations containing only chondroitin, as well as chondroitin with the addition of hyaluronic acid or collagen. There are also preparations with vitamin C and glucosamine. There are many combinations, and each of them is recommended for a slightly different health problem. If we do not know which supplement to choose, it is worth consulting a pharmacist.
We recommend, for example, Joints, cartilage, Muscles – Pharmovit liquid supplement containing chondroitin and glucosamine.
Chondroitin – reviews
For many years, chondroitin brought relief to patients with rheumatic diseases. However, a 2010 study suggested that its action is only based on a placebo. It is worth noting that these studies tested the analgesic effect in advanced stages of diseases. The situation may be slightly different in the case of its prophylactic use. If we do not know whether taking chondroitin makes any sense, it is worth consulting a doctor who will certainly suggest appropriate preparations.
However, even the possible lack of an analgesic effect does not prevent chondroitin from acting on the production of synovial fluid. The reviews say that it is as effective as possible. That is why it should be used by athletes – mainly lifting weights. In what form can this substance be found? There are not only tablets on the market. We can also buy it in the form of a powder. Such a powder can be successfully added to e.g. cocktails. If we want to notice the effect quickly, we should take it three times a day – with meals.
The daily dose of chondroitin should range from 900 to 1500 mg. Are you wondering what the prices of this product may be? Of course, they depend on additional substances that can be found in a given preparation. We will pay the most for chondroitin powder. The price of such a preparation usually exceeds PLN 100. However, if we want a tablet preparation with the addition of vitamin C or hyaluronic acid, we will pay about PLN 20-30 for it. However, when reporting to a doctor, we can count on slightly different prices. It all depends on what dose he recommends. Drugs are often cheaper than supplements.
Chondroitin – in cosmetics
The substance known as chondroitin is also successfully used in cosmetics. Most often we find it in body care preparations. We can find small amounts of it both in creams and lotions. In addition, chondroitin is used in the production of various ointments and gels that help in the treatment of joint and bone diseases. Some balms with the addition of chondroitin are also recommended for the treatment of ulcers and wounds of various origins.
However, if we are struggling with a health problem and we do not know how to help ourselves, it is best to see a doctor. In some cases, even small amounts of supplements can do more harm than good. It is worth noting that even taking supplements should be consulted with a doctor or pharmacist, because taking pills negatively affects the stomach and other parts of the digestive system.