Glucosamine

The most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis, also known as wear-and-tear arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis, caused by inflammation of the joints. Although the two conditions are very different, they are both characterized by the destruction of connective tissue, specifically the cartilage: the substance that lines the joints. When the cartilage wears down, it leaves the bone endings exposed; the result can be pain, stiffness, and swelling of the joints. Recently touted as the so-called arthritis cure, glucosamine is a natural constituent of cartilage that stimulates the production of connective tissue in the body.

As people age they are unable to make enough glucosamine. As a result, the cartilage is unable to retain water and act as a shock absorber. Several studies have shown that glucosamine supplements not only relieve the pain of arthritis but can even halt the progress of the disease. Gradually, over time, glucosamine tackles the underlying cause of arthritis by restoring lost cartilage. Although anti-inflammatory drugs work faster than glucosamine, glucosamine is more effective over time, primarily because the effect of anti-inflammatory medications can quickly wear off, whereas glucosamine continues to work. Better yet, glucosamine is safe, and there are virtually no side effects. Glucosamine works best with two other supplements, chondroitin, which is also found in cartilage, and pregnenolone, a natural hormone. This combination not only can reduce the pain of arthritis but will stimulate the production of new cartilage.