Chondroitin

Figure 1. The chemical structure of Chondroitin Sulfate.

Chondroitin is a derivative of chondrin, a protein-carbohydrate complex that is bluish-white gelatine-like in substance obtained by boiling cartilage in water. The two common types of Chondroitin are Chondroitin Sulfate and Dermatan Sulfate.

Chondroitin Sulfate is a chemical found in human and animal cartilage, and it is one of the building blocks of cartilage. Chondroitin Sulfate is usually obtained from animal sources but it can also be produced chemically in a lab.

Food Sources

Chondroitin occurs naturally in animal tissue, especially connective tissues and cartilages. However, natural sources of Chondroitin are usually much lower (per standard serving) than those provided in chondroitin supplements.

Taken as a Dietary Supplement

Chondroitin is often used together with other ingredients, including manganese ascorbate, hyaluronic acid, collagen peptides, or glucosamine to help with osteoarthritis. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage in the joints breaks down and Chondroitin may slow this breakdown. Chondroitin and glucosamine are said to relieve arthritis pain by acting as natural anti-inflammatories and slowing down the deterioration of cartilage. However, there is insufficient scientific evidence to conclusively determine the efficacy of these applications.

Chondroitin Sulfate is most commonly used by adults in doses of 800-1200 mg per day for up to 2-3 years.