The main function of chondroitin sulfate

While research on taking chondroitin sulfate has been mixed,some research suggests it may have some potential health benefits.

May reduce joint pain,people most often take chondroitin sulfate supplements to help with osteoarthritis,a common bone disorder that affects the cartilage that surrounds joints,it is said that when taken as a supplement,it increases the synthesis of various cartilage components while also preventing cartilage breakdown.A 2018 review of 26 studies showed that taking chondroitin supplements improved pain symptoms and joint function compared to taking a placebo.A 2020 review suggested that it may slow the progression of osteoarthritis,while also reducing the need for nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen),which have their own side effects.On the other hand,some studies have not found enough evidence that chondroitin can help relieve symptoms of OA,including joint stiffness or pain.Some professional bodies,such as the International Association for the Study of Osteoarthritis and the American College of Rheumatology,discourage people from using chondroitin due to mixed evidence of its effectiveness.

While chondroitin supplements can address the symptoms of OA,they don't offer a permanent cure.That's why it's important to work with your healthcare team to develop a balanced OA treatment plan.This may include the following: 

• Get regular exercise.Exercise builds muscle and bone mass to prevent the progression of OA.

• Lose weight.Losing excess pounds can reduce stress on your joints.

• Medicines.Certain medications may help prevent bone and cartilage loss,while others may reduce pain.

• Other supplements.Other supplements,such as glucosamine,fish oil,vitamin D,curcumin,and collagen,may have anti-inflammatory or bone building properties that can help relieve OA symptoms.

Protect the eyes during surgery

Healthcare professionals also often use chondroitin sulfate in solution during cataract surgery and other eye procedures.When combined with other compounds in the solution,chondroitin may help protect a part of the eye during surgery and help prevent complications.Chondroitin is also an ingredient in several prescription eye drops that ophthalmologists often use to relieve dry, irritated eyes.

Potential disadvantage

While taking chondroitin sulfate can help you manage your OA symptoms, it has some potential downsides that you should be aware of may cause stomach upset.Taking chondroitin has been found to be safe.However,one of the main potential side effects that users may experience is stomach upset.More specifically,some people have experienced:

• Nausea.

• Bloating.

• Diarrhea.

• Constipate

You can avoid an upset stomach by splitting your daily chondroitin dose into two different doses and taking them at different times of the day.

Medicine interactions

Some data suggest that chondroitin sulfate may interact with warfarin (Coumadin),a common blood-thinning drug.More specifically,your bleeding risk may be increased if you take warfarin and chondroitin together.Therefore,it is very important to discuss taking chondroitin with a healthcare professional,especially if you are taking blood thinners such as warfarin.

Avoid during pregnancy or breastfeeding

As with most dietary supplements,chondroitin should be avoided by those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.