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General Information

Glucosamine is naturally found in the body which is made from simple sugar (glucose) and amino acid glutamine. It is needed to create glycosaminoglycan which is used to form and repair body tissues and cartilage. From Wikipedia, it is one the richest monosaccharide that is produced commercially by the hydrolysis of crustacean exoskeletons. Monosaccharides are mainly the basic units of carbohydrates which is sugar. They are colorless, water-soluble, crystalline solids and some are sweet in taste. Hydrolysis is a chemical process in which a water molecule is added to a substance resulting in the split of that substance into two parts.

Food Sources

a. Animal Sources

Glucosamine can be found in bone marrow, shells of shellfish and animal bones. It is manufactured from a substance called chitin which can be found in shells of crabs, lobsters and other sea animals that can be compared to the protein keratin. It is also made accessible to the public through sports drinks and even in cosmetics.

Oral Glucosamine is not a pharmaceutical drug but rather it is a dietary supplement that is commonly used by adults.

b. Plant Sources

Glucosamine is not available from plant sources.

Benefits and Therapeutic Effects

Glucosamine supplements are used to help remedy arthritis, specifically osteoarthritis. Taking such supplements will help boost the supply of Glucosamine in the body.

According to research, people taking Glucosamine supplements experience less pain and stiffness. Also, it slows the advancement of knee osteoarthritis in contrast to placebo. It is as well used for ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease and skin conditions. Though further research, tests and evidence is needed to confirm its efficacy to treat mentioned diseases.

Its production slows with age. The cartilage gets affected and slowly looses its rubbery texture which serves as a cushion for the joints. This may lead to arthritis and cartilage deterioration. It becomes inflexible and no longer elastic that results to damage, causes loss of movement, swelling, pain and may result to deterioration.

Signs of Deficiency

There are no signs of deficiency for Glucosamine, although over-strain of muscles, tendons, and connective tissues may be helped by this supplement.

Dosage

The dosage of 1,500 milligram of glucosamine sulphate a day is recommended to osteoarthritis patients. A 3-month trial usage of glucosamine is suggested. It is advised to discotinue the usage if there is no improvement at all.

People should avoid taking the supplement if they are allergic to shellfish unless the source has been confirmed. According to tests, Glucosamine may also affect the blood sugar which is harmful to diabetics.

In theory, it is not advisable to individuals with bleeding illness for it may worsen their condition. A healthcare provider should be consulted first especially if the patient is also taking garlic, vitamin E, red clover or ginkgo supplements. It is not proven yet if Glucosamine supplements are safe for nursing or pregnant women.

Always follow the manufacturers recommended dosages for the any supplement, as some factors such as potency can vary.

Side Effects and/or Toxicity

People taking Glucosamine supplements possibly will feel nauseaus, constipated, will have poor appetite, will experience abdominal pain, insomnia, diarrhea, heartburn and vomiting. Though it is rare, the mixture of glucosamine and chondroitin may cause elevated blood pressure, palpitations and increased heart rate.

Conclusion

In summary, the production of Glucosamine in the body helps regulate body movement in connection to the repair and formation of body tissues and cartilage. It is important that before taking Glucosamine supplements, one should consult a physician or a health care provider for the right dosage and to avoid any side effects.