31 | Glucosamine & Chondroitin for Joint Pain: Are They Worth It or Worthless?
Description
Walk into any supplement aisle and you’ll see them: Glucosamine & Chondroitin, promising relief for your aching joints. But after decades of debate, are they actually effective? Or just another bottle of false hope?
In this episode of The Pain-Free Formula Podcast, Stacey Roberts breaks down the latest science, clears up the confusion, and helps you decide whether these popular joint supplements are a smart part of your long-term strategy, or just an unnecessary expense. She shares the newest research from a 2024 meta-analysis, explains how these compounds work in the body, and offers practical guidance on dosage, safety, and how to choose the right brand.
If you’ve ever wondered whether glucosamine and chondroitin are worth your time and money, or if you’re considering adding them to your arthritis relief plan, this episode is for you.
Dosing & Safety Reminders
- Typical Dosage:
- Glucosamine sulfate: 1500 mg/day
- Chondroitin sulfate: 800–1200 mg/day
- Cautions:
- People with shellfish allergies should use vegan versions.
- Those on blood thinners (e.g. warfarin) should consult their doctor first.
- Effects are not immediate. Give supplements at least 3–6 months before deciding.
Recommended Brands
ConsumerLab’s Picks:
(If you click on these Amazon links, New You Health and Wellness may receive a small commission should you decide to purchase.)
- Kirkland Signature (Costco) Advanced Glucosamine Chondroitin - https://amzn.to/3VvJlXu
- Cosamin DS for Joint Health - https://amzn.to/4nkIDIP
Stacey’s Picks:
- Douglas Labs Glucosamine Plus Extra Strength - https://amzn.to/46xUZ91
- Thorne Glucosamine and Chondroitin - https://amzn.to/4nHWc4y
- Vegan Glucosamine and Chondroitin - https://amzn.to/4nsIV00i
References & Further Reading
- Rabade, A., Viswanatha, G. L., Nandakumar, K., & Kishore, A. (2024). Evaluation of efficacy and safety of glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, and their combination regimen in the management of knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Inflammopharmacology, 32(3), 1759–1775. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10787-024-01460-9
- ConsumerLab (2017). Does glucosamine raise “bad” LDL cholesterol? Read article - https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/does-glucosamine-raise-ldl-bad-cholesterol/glucosamine-cholesterol/?search=Glucosamine
Important Links
- Pain-Free Formula Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-pain-free-formula/id1802518411
- Free eBooks - https://newyouhealthandwellness.com/ebooks
- Biomechanics: When Movement Matters
- Heal Your Gut, Heal Your Pain - The Gut Joint Axis: A Missing Link to Joint and Muscle Health
- Hormones: A Missing Piece in Pain Relief
- Stacey’s Book on Amazon - https://www.amazon.ca/Pain-Free-Formula-Solving-Injections/dp/0998183717
- New You Health and Wellness Website - https://newyouhealthandwellness.com
About The Host
Stacey Roberts, PT, MBA, MSN, RN, is an Amazon bestselling author, physical therapist, registered nurse, and functional medicine specialist with 30+ years of experience. She founded and runs New You Health and Wellness in Wauwatosa Wisconsin. Her program, detailed in her book, The Pain-Free Formula; Solving The Puzzle of Muscle and Joint Pain Without Surgery, Drugs or Injections, has helped thousands overcome chronic pain and reclaim their vitality.
The Pain-Free Formula Podcast is brought to you by Stacey Roberts and Podcast Your Brand. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.
Medical Disclaimer
Information in this program, as well as any information provided by New You Health and Wellness and its subsidiaries, is provided for informational purposes only. This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by a licensed physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging that we supply. Do not use the information on this website or podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read or heard in this program. Information provided in this program and any other presented by New You Health and Wellness LLC, and the use of any products or services purchased from New You Health and Wellness LLC by you does not create a doctor-patient relationship or healthcare provider-patient relationship between you and any of the health professionals affiliated with our website or clinic. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Nothing stated or posted on this site or in this podcast or available through any services is intended to be and must not be taken to be the practice of medical or counseling care. For purposes of this agreement, the practice of medicine and counseling includes, without limitations, psychiatry, psychology, psychotherapy or providing healthcare, treatment instructions, diagnosis, prognosis or advice.