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Benefits of Glucosamine and Chondroitin

By Jill Levy

May 20, 2023

One of the many advantages of drinking bone broth every day, or using chicken-based Bone Broth Protein supplements if you prefer a more convenient option, is that they typically provide two valuable compounds called glucosamine and chondroitin.

What do glucosamine and chondroitin do for you, generally speaking? They can help to support joint mobility and comfort, among other benefits. 

Learn how glucosamine and chondroitin can be used to help promote joint health, plus the best types of supplements or health products that provide these beneficial compounds.

What Are Glucosamine and Chondroitin?

Glucosamine and chondroitin are compounds found naturally in cartilage (which cushions joints) and chicken-based bone broth, as well as in dietary supplements geared towards supporting joint health.

Here’s more about each of these compounds:

Glucosamine

Glucosamine is found in connective tissue that cushion joints. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the structure and function of cartilage.

Glucosamine supplements are typically derived from bone broth (such as those made from chicken), shellfish shells or made synthetically. They come in various forms, such as glucosamine sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride and N-acetylglucosamine.

Chondroitin

Chondroitin is another compound found naturally in the cartilage. It’s a complex molecule that helps provide elasticity, shock absorption, and resistance to compression in the joints. Chondroitin supplements are often derived from animal sources, such as chicken cartilage.

Potential Benefits

Both glucosamine and chondroitin are thought to work together to support joint health. 

In supplement form, such as Bone Broth Protein, glucosamine and chondroitin are associated with benefits including:

• Support for joint health

• Improved flexibility and mobility

• Help reducing joint discomfort

Glucosamine and chondroitin may help promote joint comfort and help promote a healthy response to inflammation. They’re believed to provide these benefits and to offer support for the structure and function of cartilage.

By supporting cartilage health, these joint supplements may improve joint mobility, flexibility and overall function. Some people report experiencing enhanced joint movement and mobility when taking glucosamine and chondroitin.

Additionally, glucosamine and chondroitin may be able to help keep joints healthy into the natural, normal aging process.

Questions About Glucosamine and Chondroitin

How long does it take for glucosamine and chondroitin to help joints?

While many people may find some benefits with glucosamine and chondroitin supplements when taken consistently for several months, individual responses can vary.

It's always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new dietary or lifestyle regimen, including dietary supplementation, to determine if it's appropriate for your specific situation and to discuss potential risks or interactions with any medications you may be taking.

When should you not take glucosamine or chondroitin?

If you’re allergic to chicken or shellfish (depending on the product ingredients), avoid using these supplements unless working with a doctor. 

Chicken-Based Bone Broth: A Source of Glucosamine and Chondroitin

Chicken-based bone broth is one of the few dietary sources that offers some glucosamine and chondroitin. When bone broth is made by simmering chicken bones, it releases various beneficial compounds, including glucosamine and chondroitin, as well as collagen protein.

The concentration of glucosamine and chondroitin in bone broth can vary depending on factors such as the type and quality of bones used, cooking time, and preparation method. For the most benefits, opt for traditionally made, homemade bone broth or broth available at butcher shops and farmer’s markets.

If you prefer to consume these compounds in a convenient source other than homemade bone broth, consider Bone Broth Protein powder. Ancient Nutrition’s Bone Broth Protein is a nourishing, concentrated bone broth that is 3x as potent protein-wise as homemade broth, making it easy to get healthy gut, joint and inflammation support on a regular basis.

A general recommendation for most adults is to consume 1–3 servings of bone broth daily. You can also try a sipping bone broth. However, you should always read and follow label directions for use. You can add one scoop to about 12 ounces of warm water, juice, a smoothie, or soups, stews, sauces or broths (depending on your flavor preference).

Consider trying a Bone Broth Diet if you want to promote healthy inflammation and support healthy gut and joint functions.

Final Thoughts

Glucosamine and chondroitin are generally considered safe for most people when taken in recommended amounts. They can help to keep joints healthy and assist in comfort, mobility, and flexibility, including as you naturally age.