Glucosamine and Chondroitin for Osteoarthritis

Joint supplements can be useful, but the jury is still out on some. Check with your healthcare team to see if you need joint supplementation. Shutterstock

What Are Glucosamine and Chondroitin?

Glucosamine and chondroitin are structural components of cartilage, the tissue that cushions the joints. Both are produced naturally in the body. They are also available as dietary supplements. Researchers have studied the effects of these supplements, individually or in combination, on osteoarthritis, a common type of arthritis that destroys cartilage in the joints.