What is arthritis?
Arthritis is a process affecting the joints, or is a joint disease that is often accompanied by swelling and tenderness. The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis that usually affects older adults. Osteoarthritis may affect any joint, however, the commonest sites are the hands, hips, knees, and spine. It is now known that inflammation is key to osteoarthritis and that the whole joint, as well as the cartilage may be damaged.
What are the roles of glucosamine/MSN chondroitin sulfate?
Glucosamine/chondroitin sulfate with methylsulfonylmethane(MSN) is a combination medication used to treat osteoarthritis. At one point, it was felt that this supplement would replace the damaged cartilage. Some now believe that this supplement functions more as a lectin blocker that reduces the effects of leaky gut syndrome. Therefore, reducing inflammation helps decrease cartilage loss and may even reverse the damage.
What are Lectins?
Lectins are a part of the plant's natural defense system to protect their babies from predators, including humans. It does so by making us sick or resisting digestion. Lectins can bind to sugars in carbohydrates and reduce the ability of our bodies to absorb nutrients. To that end, lectins are a known cause of inflammation. Lectins, when consumed in large amounts, are considered harmful to the body; they disrupt the gut microbiome and are often associated with leaky gut syndrome resulting in inflammation. Antibodies formed against the byproducts of the leaky gut could then begin to attack the joint space, leading to inflammation/arthritis.
How to decrease risks of osteoarthritis?
Mild to moderate exercise and staying active are some ways to decrease joint problems. Also, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting consumption of processed foods and simple sugars are helpful. Other dietary changes include consuming more leafy green vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, and eating more oily fish such as salmon and trout.
How much do I take?
There is no standard recommendation on how much to take, but dosages of 1500 mg of glucosamine are commonly suggested.
Self Care Tips:
The supplement is considered safe for most people, with the exception of those with shellfish allergies, on anticoagulants medications, and diabetics. This supplement could increase blood sugar levels. That being said, if you are taking insulin you may have to adjust the insulin dose to prevent hyperglycemia.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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