Chondrotin
Chondroitin Sulfate is a mucopolysaccharide found in cartilage, tendons and ligaments, where it is bound to proteins such as collagen and elastin. In our joints, it contributes to strength, flexibility and shock absorption. Current research indicates that supplemental Chondroitin Sulfate may help maintain proper joint function.
Chondroitin sulfate is a major constituent of cartilage providing structure, holding water and nutrients, and allowing other molecules to move through cartilage, an important property, as there is no blood supply to cartilage. Chondroitin may work by acting as a building block for proteoglycan molecules, and may also have anti-inflammatory properties.
In degenerative joint disease, such as osteoarthritis, there is a loss of chondroitin sulfate as the cartilage erodes. Animal studies indicate that chondroitin sulfate may promote healing of bone, which is consistent with the fact that the majority of glycosaminoglycans found in bone consist of chondroitin sulfate. Chondroitin sulfate has been shown, in numerous trials to relieve symptoms and possibly slow the progression of, or in some cases, reverse osteoarthritis.
