Glucosamine

What it does in the body

Glucosamine, which is made in the body, is needed to make glycosaminoglycans, proteins that are key structural components of cartilage. Glucosamine also stimulates the cells that produce these structural proteins and helps to normalize cartilage metabolism by inhibiting breakdown and exerting anti-inflammatory effects.

Sources

There are no food sources of glucosamine.

Supplements

Glucosamine sulfate seems to be the most beneficial form of glucosamine. It may be given orally, intravenously, intramuscularly, and intra-articularly (injected intojoints).

Toxic effects

Toxic effects are rare.

Therapeutic uses of supplements

Glucosamine is used to help the body to repair damaged or eroded cartilage and has been used to treat osteoarthritis. Short-term human trials suggest that glucosamine sulfate may produce a gradual and progressive reduction in joint pain and tenderness, as well as improved range of motion and walking speed. Results of the trials have also shown that glucosamine has produced consistent benefits in patients with osteoarthritis and that, in some cases, it may be equal or superior to anti-inflammatory drugs in controlling symptoms. It is often combined with chondroitin, a substance which has anti-inflammatory properties and protects the cartilage against breakdown. It has also been used to promote wound-healing and to treat psoriasis.

Other Nutrients:

Essential fatty acids
Choline
Inositol
Para-aminobenzoic acid
Laetrile
Pangamic acid
Coenzyme Q10
Amino acids
Flavonoids
Lipoic acid
Carnitine
Melatonin
Glucosamine
Chitosan
Shark cartilage
Digestive support
Betaine hydrochloride
Digestive enzymes
Probiotics
Fiber supplements
Algae