Arthritis-fighting supplements: chondroitin sulfate

There's no shortage of over-the-counter remedies and herbs that claim they'll make your life "normal" again. Being skeptical is smart, but some remedies do show promise. Here is one.

• Chondroitin sulfate — usually in combination with glucosamine — has been a popular arthritis remedy for years. But promising studies suggest that each of these supplements by itself may be effective at easing pain and improving joint function.
• Chondroitin is a natural component of human cartilage, but supplements are derived from cows or pigs. It's thought to ease symptoms of osteoarthritis by drawing fluid into joints to make them more supple and by preventing enzymes from breaking down cartilage. More than a dozen studies, taken together, suggest it has benefits. A U.S. study of chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine funded by the National Institutes of Health found that the benefits to those suffering from only moderate OA pain were negligible, though those suffering from severe pain reported encouraging results.

• Chondroitin appears safe, but it may affect blood sugar and thin the blood, so approach it cautiously if you have diabetes or take anticoagulant medications.
• Don't expect instant results: Even people who say it works find that chondroitin can take as long as two to four months to have an effect, so be patient as you wait for the chondroitin to take effect.