happened to see this on Globalandmail.com
GLUCOSAMINE
AND CHONDROITIN
These natural substances are found in and around cartilage cells. Some, but not all, studies have shown that supplements of glucosamine and chondroitin can relieve joint stiffness and pain in some people with osteoarthritis. There's also evidence that glucosamine can slow joint degeneration and osteoarthritis progression.
Most studies have used 1,500 milligrams of glucosamine sulfate daily.
Research suggests that chondroitin sulfate (1,200 milligrams daily) is effective for alleviating osteoarthritis symptoms when used with pain killers.
Chondroitin is often combined with glucosamine, but the evidence that this combination works better than either ingredient alone is sparse.
If you take either supplement and don't feel any benefit after three months, it probably isn't going to work and you should stop taking it. Discuss taking supplements with your health-care provider.
MSM
This compound, called methyl sulfonyl methane, is found in small amounts in fruit, corn, tomatoes, milk, tea and coffee. As a supplement, MSM is promoted as having anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Two randomized controlled trials lasting 12 weeks found that MSM supplements - used alone or in combination with glucosamine - significantly lessened knee pain and swelling, and improved joint function in people with osteoarthritis. Animal studies also suggest MSM may inhibit degenerative changes in joints.
While preliminary research suggests MSM may help, not enough is known about its long-term safety and effectiveness.
Leslie Beck, a Toronto-based dietitian at the Medcan Clinic, is on CTV's Canada AM every Wednesday. Her website is lesliebeck.com.