Chondroitin Sulfate
| Basics |
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Chondroitin sulfate consists of repeating chains of molecules called mucopolysaccharides. It is a major constituent of cartilage as it is essential to its growth and repair. It provides structure, holding water and nutrients, and allowing other molecules to move through cartilage, an important property, as there is no blood supply to cartilage.
Chondroitin sulfate is rich in sulfur and is related to glucosamine. To some degree, chondroitin sulfate is present in all organ systems, including other soft connective tissues, tendons and ligaments, as well as in the skin and blood vessels.
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| Remedy For |
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Osteoarthritis.
Arteriosclerosis.
High cholesterol.
Kidney stones.
Minor injuries.
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| Prevention |
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Prematurely breakdown of healthy cartilage.
Abnormal movement of blood, urine, or components across the barrier of the vessel or bladder wall.
Arteriosclerosis.
Heart attacks in people who already have atherosclerosis.
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| Usage Directions |
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For atherosclerosis, researchers have sometimes started therapy using very high amounts, such as 5 grams twice per day with meals, lowering the amount to 500 mg three times per day after a few months. Before taking such high amounts, people should consult a nutritionally oriented doctor.
For osteoarthritis, a typical level is 400 mg three times per day. The ability for chondroitin to be absorbed orally is still under question.
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| Sources |
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The only significant food source of chondroitin sulfate is animal cartilage. Supplements seem to activate one's own natural production of chondroitin sulfate needed to build healthy new cartilage.
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| Possible Side Effects |
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Headaches, leg pain, itching, and drowsiness have been reported as a side effect of chondroitin sulfate intake. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or which is especially bothersome.
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| Overdose |
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Acute overdose: Nausea may occur at intakes greater than 10 grams per day.
Chronic overdose: None
What to do: For an acute overdose, call your doctor, emergency medical services (EMS), or the nearest poison control center immediately. For symptoms of chronic overdose, contact your doctor.
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| Caution |
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Studies have yet to show that highly processed glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, although marketed as natural, are safe over a long term. If you want to try it, let your doctor know, particularly if you are diabetic.
Pregnant women should avoid chondroitin sulfate.
Before taking high amounts of chondroitin sulfate, people should consult a nutritionally oriented doctor.
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