gastrointestinal bleeding. Theodakis claims that glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate can halt and even reverse osteoarthritis without any side effects ("Is There" 2). These two supplements are synthetic versions of compounds the body makes to help form cartilage. Glucosamine stimulates the growth of cartilage; chondroitin does too, and also prevents its breakdown. Theodakis claims to have treated more than 600 people who got total or partial relief within two weeks of starting treatment ("Latest" 3). However, his results are unproven. The only supplement he recommends is Cosamin, which combines both supplements in the ratio he finds beneficial. It is only available through healthcare providers and pharmacies. Supplements of chondroitin and glucosamine sold in Health stores usually contain only one of the two supplements, and have not been found to be reliable in the amounts of either supplement they actually contain, so are not recommended. The currently recommended treatment for osteoarthritis, besides pain killers and anti-inflammatories, even by Theodakis, is exercise, weight control and healthful eating.
It has been suggested that insufficient levels of glucosamine in the body is the factor leading to osteoarthritis, according to Murray (16). He cites studies which have shown that supplements of glucosamine sulfate stimulate the manufacture of cartilage substances necessary for proper joint function, and in addition, stimulate joint repair. In a recent double-blind study, 178 patients suffering from osteoarthritis of the knee were randomized into two grou
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