What is the benefit of Glucosamine Chondroitin Supplements?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a condition experienced by millions around the world that causes joint discomfort, stiffness, and ultimately reduced mobility, which takes a toll on overall quality of life. As people seek solutions to manage or alleviate these symptoms, glucosamine and chondroitin supplements have gained popularity as a natural way to support joint health. 

Companies like Willkins have a recognizable presence in the space with high-quality formulations that work to relieve discomfort and support cartilage health. So, what are the benefits of the supplements, and how do they work? This blog will examine the science, potential benefits, and considerations of using Glucosamine Chondroitin Supplements, as well as their role in managing osteoarthritis and supporting overall joint function.

The purpose of Glucosamine and Chondroitin

Glucosamine and chondroitin are compounds in our body that occur naturally, mainly in cartilage. Cartilage is a connective tissue that forms the cushion at joints. Glucosamine is an amino sugar and a building block for glycosaminoglycans. Glycosaminoglycans make up cartilage and synovial fluid. Chondroitin is a complex carbohydrate that draws water into cartilage, giving it the elastic properties and ability to withstand compressive stress. Glucosamine and chondroitin are said to support the structure and function of joints, which is mainly why individuals choose to take them when they have osteoarthritis or experience discomfort in their joints.

Willkins Glucosamine Chondroitin Supplements combine glucosamine and chondroitin in various forms (glucosamine sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride, and chondroitin sulfate) to maximize their value/benefits. Glucosamine is typically derived from shellfish, while chondroitin is derived from bovine or shark cartilage although some brands do offer non-shellfish sources, such as Willkins.

Main Benefits of Glucosamine Chondroitin Supplements

1. Alleviating Osteoarthritis Discomfort

One of the most recognized benefits of glucosamine chondroitin supplements is that they can help alleviate osteoarthritis discomfort. The research is a bit mixed—one of the most well-known studies, the Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT), has shown varying results, but there remains some evidence that varying degrees of relief can be provided to those individuals suffering from moderate-to-severe knee pain. For example, in 2016, the MOVES trial found that glucosamine and chondroitin were as effective in relieving knee osteoarthritis discomfort and swelling compared to the NSAID celecoxib without the side effects of long-term NSAID usage. Willkins formulations are purposely designed to provide you with therapeutic dosing guidelines by providing you with 1,500 mg of glucosamine and 1,200 mg of chondroitin, which support and facilitate alleviating discomfort.

2. Better Joint Movements and Mobility

In addition to pain relief, the glucosamine chondroitin supplements can restore functionality and flexibility of joints. There is some evidence that glucosamine sulfate specifically works to increase the range of motion at joints and decrease stiffness. A 2018 review reported slight beneficial effects on pain and function in knee osteoarthritis with the frequent use of glucosamine sulfate and the water-holding capacity of chondroitin in cartilage that may lubricate the joints and facilitate movement. Willkins supplements attempt to aid these effects by offering high bioavailable forms of these compounds, which may aid a user in leading an active life.

3. Potential to Slow Cartilage Breakdown

Osteoarthritis represents the persistence of degeneration of the matrix, which turns into a friction of bone-on-bone that results in aggravation of clinical symptoms. Glucosamine chondroitin supplements can support cartilage metabolism and thus slow this process. Glycosaminoglycans rely on glucosamine to be formed; they are essential to the structure of cartilage, and chondroitin is thought to halt the process of enzymes cannibalizing the cartilage structure. 

Laboratory tests tend to indicate that these substances have a protective effect on chondrocytes (cells that produce cartilage) and trigger the growth of cartilage. Although some clinical studies have been conflicting, a 2010 follow-up of the GAIT trial indicated a protective effect with less space narrowing in involved joints in the glucosamine group than in the placebo group. Willkins highlights the use of pharmaceutical-grade ingredients so as to possibly have these chondroprotective advantages maximized.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Inflammatory diseases play a significant role in osteoarthritis, contributing to both pain and the breakdown of cartilage. Some research has been able to prove the anti-inflammatory effects of glucosamine chondroitin supplements. Indeed, one small trial reported that combined use of glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate decreased C-reactive protein (CRP), a measurement of systemic inflammation, by 23 percent compared with placebo. These anti-inflammatory effects can help reduce swelling and discomfort, providing an alternative to NSAIDs for individuals with cardiovascular or gastric issues, and it is less dangerous. Willkins Glucosamine-Chondroitin supplements are designed to capitalize on this and promise relief without the problems of long-term NSAIDs.

5. Possible Decrease in NSAID Use

For anyone relying on NSAIDs to deal with osteoarthritis pain, glucosamine chondroitin supplements can be an alternative that decreases usage. In a two-year cohort study, participants with knee osteoarthritis using 1,500 mg daily of crystalline glucosamine sulfate had a 36% decrease in NSAID use. This is especially important for anyone at risk for NSAID use-related side effects, such as gastrointestinal bleeding or cardiovascular problems. Willkins supplements are consistent, as they are highly standardized, and they are created to help people decrease medication usage.

6. Possible Preventive Effects

Some research supports glucosamine chondroitin supplements, indicating a possible preventive benefit in osteoarthritis. A 2.5-year study using women aged 50–60 found that taking 1,500 mg of glucosamine sulfate daily revealed a significant reduction in risk for knee osteoarthritis when compared to the placebo group. There is still more research that needs to be done, but this suggests that the supplements from Willkins can have beneficial effects for someone at risk for degenerative joints, such as athletes or those with a family history of osteoarthritis.

7. Other Possible Health Benefits

Research is beginning to show that glucosamine chondroitin supplements may provide more benefits than just joint health. An exploratory analysis revealed by the Vitamins And Lifestyle (VITAL) study found that regular consumption (4+ days/week, 3 years or more) was associated with a 45% lower risk of colorectal cancer in participants. 

While the chemo preventive effect of glucosamine and chondroitin cannot be certainly established, there is the suggestion that the effects may have been due to the anti-inflammatory capacities of glucosamine and chondroitin. The study's findings also suggest important consideration of other health benefits. Willkins formulations may even offer unexpected benefits, though it also means we will need to await further studies on glucosamine chondroitin's potential protective factors.

Safety and Caution

Glucosamine chondroitin supplements have generally been deemed safe, and the potential mild, infrequent side effects of stomach upset, nausea, or headache are negligible. However, there are some safety issues to consider:

• Allergies: Many glucosamine supplements are derived from shellfish. For those with allergies to shellfish or those who wish to abstain from shellfish, check that you are not taking a supplement derived from shellfish, or perhaps consult your doctor about potential benefits or differences in a glucosamine supplement from non-shellfish sources offered by Willkins.
• Drug Interactions: Glucosamine and possibly chondroitin, when taken concurrently with blood thinners, such as warfarin, will most likely enhance the effect of the blood thinner and increase your bleeding potential; consult your doctor if you are taking any blood thinners.
• Medical Conditions: If you have diabetes, kidney disease, or heart disease, especially if it has been found that glucosamine may raise your blood glucose levels in some cases, consult your doctor about supplementation.
• Quality Matters: Supplements are not regulated nearly as strictly as drugs, and so taking a quality brand name such as Willkins is essential in ensuring the product is potent and pure.

Who should take calculated glucosamine and chondroitin supplements?

Glucosamine chondroitin supplements could be the most effective for people who have mild or moderate osteoarthritis, especially those who are suffering in the knees or the hands. They can also be of benefit to those who want to lessen their use of NSAIDs or wish to consider prevention strategies. Nonetheless, the Osteoarthritis Research Society International and the American College of Rheumatology tend to advise against their use because of their mixed evidence, and the European Society for Clinical and Economic Aspects of Osteoporosis promotes pharmaceutical-grade ones. It is necessary to consult a healthcare professional to find out whether Willkins Glucosamine Chondroitin Supplements are suitable when addressing your needs.

Conclusion

Glucosamine chondroitin supplements like those sold by Willkins offer an encouraging opportunity to treat the symptoms of osteoarthritis and to maintain healthy joints. These supplements have been shown to have the potential in many studies, although findings have been varied, to reduce pain and improve mobility, slow the breakdown of cartilage, and have potential anti-inflammatory effects. The prospect of lowering the use of NSAIDs and even providing access to preventive and general health benefits is a great option in the eyes of many. Yet, people do not react to them equally, and it is preferable to use them for at least three months with the monitoring of the results, considering the lack of improvement. When using Willkins Glucosamine Chondroitin Supplements, it is also crucial to consult a healthcare expert before beginning consumption. The right approach might make these supplements a welcome component of your joint health plan, and they will make your movements easier and more comfortable.