GLUCOSAMINE AND CHONDROITIN
Glucosamine and chondroitin are naturally occurring substances in our bodies which may have certain health benefits. This page presented by Seven Seas USA links to some stories that may be of interest for people considering increasing the amount of Glucosamine and chondroitin in their diet. Not all of these stories specifically mention both substances, and each works in a different way. However, they all do mention one or the other if not both.

Arthritis Foundation: Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate
Arthritis Foundation overview of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate

“What are Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate?

Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are substances found naturally in the body. Glucosamine is a form of amino sugar that is believed to play a role in cartilage formation and repair. Chondroitin sulfate is part of a large protein molecule (proteoglycan) that gives cartilage elasticity.”
(source: http://www.arthritis.org/conditions/alttherapies/Glucosamine.asp)



Glucosamine for Arthritis
This web site references studies conducted on glucosamine and chondroitin.

“In recent years, glucosamine and chondroitin have been widely promoted as a treatment for OA. Glucosamine, an amino sugar, is thought to promote the formation and repair of cartilage. Chondroitin, a carbohydrate, is a cartilage component that is thought to promote water retention and elasticity and to inhibit the enzymes that break down cartilage. Both compounds are manufactured by the body.

Laboratory studies suggest that glucosamine may stimulate production of cartilage-building proteins. Other research suggests that chondroitin may inhibit production of cartilage-destroying enzymes and fight inflammation too.”
(source: http://www.quackwatch.org/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/DSH/glucosamine.html)



Glucosamine and arthritis update
UK based site discusses recent trials using Glucosamine for people with arthritis.

“Evidence that glucosamine (and chondroitin) is effective in osteoarthritis continues to build. We now have two top class reviews of older, short, studies that come to this conclusion, and a new randomised trial of some quality that demonstrates a clear disease-modifying effect, as well as showing improvements in pain and functioning and an absence of long-term harm.”
(source: http://www.jr2.ox.ac.uk/bandolier/band85/b85-2.html)



Herb & Supplement Guide: Glucosamine
About.com’s herb and supplement guide has a page on Glucosamine.

“Glucosamine is a molecule made of glucose and an amine that is produced naturally in the body. It stimulates cartilage cells to produce two proteins that help to hold joint tissue together, proteoglycans and collagen. It may also prevent the breakdown of collagen.

As people age, their bodies are less able to produce glucosamine, which results in cartilage being less flexible.”
(source: http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/herbsvitaminsek/a/Glucosamine.htm)



Here are Seven Seas products containing Glucosamine and Chondroitin:
Seven Seas Jointcare includes Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Seven Seas Jointcare Glucosamine and Chondroitin also includes Cod Liver Oil
Seven Seas Jointcare Projoint
Seven Seas Jointcare Jointmax
Seven Seas Sportflex - a multinutrient capsule