Chondroitin is a natural substance found in cartilage, the connective tissue that covers the ends of bones in joints. It is one of the proteoglycans, the molecules that give cartilage its strength and elasticity.

Chondroitin is thought to act by reducing inflammation in the joints, promoting the production of new cartilage components and inhibiting cartilage-degrading enzymes. It can also help improve joint lubrication.

Chondroitin is often combined with glucosamine in dietary supplements for the treatment of osteoarthritis. These two substances are considered “chondroprotectors”, i.e. they protect the chondrocytes, the cells present in cartilage. Ultimately, this process helps to limit degradation and strengthen the remaining structure of damaged cartilage^.1

Chondroitin is a naturally occurring substance in animal tissues, mainly in the cartilage of marine animals such as sharks, rays and fish. Chondroitin is generally extracted from these animal sources.

Chondroitin sulfate, on the other hand, is chondroitin combined with a sulfate ion. This form of chondroitin is considered the most commonly used in dietary supplements and products for the treatment of osteoarthritis. This form improves the stability and bioavailability of chondroitin when used as a dietary supplement.