A common starting dose of glucosamine and chondroitin will reduce inflammation as reflected by a reduction in serum C-reactive protein.

Use of glucosamine and chondroitin have been associated with reduced cancer and overall mortality. The aim of this study is to determine whether a common starting dose of glucosamine and chondroitin (1500 mg/d + 1200 mg/d, respectively) reduces systemic inflammation as reflected by a reduction in high sensitivity C-reactive protein.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Healthy
• Overweight (body mass index kg/m2 (BMI) between 25 and 32.5)
• Non-smoking men and women
• Aged 20-55y

Exclusion Criteria:

• Chronic medical illness, history of gastrointestinal, hepatic, or renal disorders, or inflammatory conditions (including autoimmune and inflammatory diseases)
• Pregnancy or lactation
• Currently on a weight-loss diet
• BMI (body mass index) < 25 or > 30
• Alcohol intake of greater than 2 drinks/day
• Current use of prescription or over-the-counter medications, (Excluding oral contraceptives and hormone-secreting IUDs), including use of aspirin or NSAIDs more than 2 days per week
• Abnormal renal, liver or metabolic test
• Inability to swallow pills
• Known allergy to shellfish
• Not willing to take pills made from shellfish or animal sources
• Intention to relocate out of study area within next 4 months