What is chondroitin and do I need it?
Chondroitin is made up of two glucosamine molecules joined with a chemical bond. That means it’s at least twice as large as the glucosamine molecule itself. Some experts question whether chondroitin can be absorbed, but the research on absorption is less than clear. Your body should make all the chondroitin you need from the glucosamine your body produces or the supplements you take. Chondroitin supplementation is probably not necessary. However, chondroitin seems to be effective in some cases, and people want to know why. Here is a possible answer–and please remember that this is purely speculative based on the biochemistry of the body. There may be a small group of people who don’t produce enough of the enzyme required to make chondroitin from glucosamine. These are the people who benefit from taking chondroitin. Future research may provide more insight into this issue.
Related Questions
- Should I feed a food that contains glucosamine and chondroitin to make sure my pet doesn have joint problems?
- Will glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate supplements prevent or repair damage to the cartilage in climbers’ fingers?
- I give my dog a food that contains glucosamine and chondroitin. Do I still need Cosequin?
