Glucosamine


Glucosamine is an amino sugar chemical compound that is typically extracted from shellfish when used as a dietary supplement that is intended to repair cartilage and to relieve pain in people who suffer from osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis.

Effects of Glucosamine

Glucosamine occurs naturally in the healthy cartilage of the human body. Cartilage is a tissue in the joints used as a cushion. Over time, cartilage wears down, and as we age, our body's ability to replace it diminishes, leading to arthritis. Studies have shown that glucosamine supplements can aid in the repair and rebuilding of cartilage, slow the process of joint deterioration, and relieve arthritis-related joint pain. In one three-year study, people with mild to moderate arthritis who took glucosamine had an average of 20%-25% less joint pain than people who took a placebo. Furthermore, x-rays revealed that the patients who took the glucosamine had a delay in the advancement of arthritis, while the placebo group's arthritis continued to progress. In this study, no major side effects were observed.

Using Glucosamine

Glucosamine is suggested as an alternative to many of the anti-inflammatory drugs on the market, such as Advil and Motrin, of which long-term use can cause intestinal bleeding or liver failure. Oftentimes, glucosamine supplements are taken in conjunction with chondroitin sulfate. Though both of these substances occur naturally in the human body and are said to have an effect on the health of tissues and joints, studies demonstrate that glucosamine is absorbed in the body by the cartilage, while chondroitin sulfate is not absorbed. Some researchers who recommend glucosamine also recommend against using chondroitin sulfate. As with all dietary supplements in the United States, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are not under any mandatory regulations by the FDA, so these supplements should be purchased from reputable sources, and particular caution is always advised in the purchase and use of any dietary supplement.

Because of the lack of research on the effects of glucosamine supplements in children or pregnant women, glucosamine is not recommended for these people. Some possible side effects of glucosamine include upset stomach, drowsiness, headache, insomnia, abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, heartburn, constipation, and diarrhea. While some studies show no effect of glucosamine supplements on blood sugar levels, diabetics who take the supplements should monitor insulin carefully, as the research in this area is as yet unclear. People with shellfish allergies should be aware that glucosamine supplements are taken from shellfish.

By Barbara Poelle           


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