Chondroitin

Chondroitin

Chondroitin sulfate is a sulfated derivative of glycosaminoglycans (proteoglycans), which form the basis of connective, cartilage and bone tissue. It is a structural component of cartilage, produced by the cartilage tissue of joints and is part of the synovial fluid. A necessary component of chondroitin sulfate is glucosamine, a deficiency of which in synovial fluid can cause crunching in the joints. A special feature of chondroitin among proteoglycans is its ability to retain water in the composition of cartilage. Chondroitin sulfate initiates the process of sulfur fixation during the synthesis of chondroitinsulfuric acid, which, in turn, promotes the deposition of calcium in the bones. Stimulates the synthesis of hyaluronic acid, strengthening the connective tissue structures of cartilage, tendons, ligaments, skin and inhibits the action of enzymes that destroy connective tissue, including lysosomal enzymes released as a result of the destruction of chondrocytes (elastase, peptidase, cathepsin). It has an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect, promotes active regeneration of cartilage, reduces pain in the joints and spine at rest and when walking. Regular use of chondroitin reduces and sometimes completely eliminates the need to take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Indications for use are: degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the joints and spine, primary arthrosis, intervertebral osteochondrosis, osteoarthrosis, osteoporosis, fractures. When taken, chondroitin sulfate blocks the activity of pancreatic lipase and slows down the absorption of fat in the intestine. With long-term use of chondroitin sulfate, the level of hyperlipidemia and hypercholesterolemia and body weight decrease.

Chondroitin sulfate and other chondroprotectors are found in large quantities in tendons, skin and cartilage of animal products. However, in food they are mainly in the form of polymers that are not digested by intestinal enzymes, but are hydrolyzed by enzymes of intestinal bacteria to form short-chain fatty acids. Therefore, dietary supplements contain low molecular weight fractions of chondroitin sulfate, obtained mainly from salmon cartilage, which are almost completely absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, maintaining their structure, and can be included in the metabolism of cartilage tissue. For medicinal purposes, it is recommended to take 500-1500 mg of chondroitin per day, in two or three doses. The standard daily dose is 400 mg. The exact dosage depends on the patient’s weight and severity of the disease. The onset of effect is usually noted after 2-8 weeks from the start of administration. Long-lasting and lasting results from the use of chondroitin sulfate can be obtained in no less than 2-3 months. To enhance the effect, it is recommended to combine Chondroitin with the drugs Glucosamine, Omega-3, Calcium Magnesium Chelate, Osteo Plus. Contraindications for use include blood coagulation disorders, thrombophlebitis, and allergies.