Much research has been dedicated to determining their effects on bone health, with mixed results. But recent research has pointed to another possible benefit of these supplements.
In an analysis of the VITamins and Lifestyle (VITAL) cohort, researchers found that use of glucosamine and chondroitin supplements was associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer (CRC).
People who had used glucosamine in the 10 years before baseline had a 27% decreased CRC risk, and those who had used chondroitin had a 35% risk reduction.
Later, a more in-depth analysis of the same cohort found that people using chondroitin and glucosamine together 4+ days a week for 3 or more years had a 45% reduction in CRC risk compared with non-users.
In a study published in the November 2016 issue of the International Journal of Cancer, researchers sought to clarify the association between glucosamine and chondroitin and CRC risk.
Using data from two large prospective cohorts — the Nurses’ Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-Up Study — the researchers looked at regular use of glucosamine and chondroitin at the beginning of the study and at CRC cancer rates 8 years later.
The study found that use of glucosamine + chondroitin was associated with a 23% reduction in CRC risk. That association remained the same even when accounting for change in exposure status over follow-up, and no significant differences were found based on sex, BMI or physical activity.
This research provides additional support for the idea that glucosamine and chondroitin are associated with a reduced risk of developing colorectal cancer. More studies are needed to confirm the association and to explain the mechanisms of protection.