The Lowdown on Glucosamine
Thursday, July 9, 2015
We have all heard of Glucosamine.... it seems to be a permanent resident on every supermarket and pharmacy shelf. But does it actually work?
What is Glucosamine?
Glucosamine is a natural compound found in healthy cartilage and Glucosamine Sulphate is a natural substance found in the cartilage matrix and the joint lubricating fluid.
Glucosamine Sulphate
Controlled trials support the use of Glucosamine Sulphate in the treatment of osteoarthritis, particularly of the knee. Doctors believe that the Sulphate added to Glucosamine strengthens cartilage and improves lubrication. Some scientists think that only the Glucosamine Sulphate form is effective and that non-Sulphated Glucosamine doesn't improve symptoms.
Chondroitin
Glucosamine is often taken with Chondroitin, which is another natural component of cartilage that cushions the joints. Chondroitin helps to keep cartilage healthy by absorbing fluid (particularly water) into the connective tissue. It may also block the enzymes that break down cartilage and it provides the building blocks for new cartilage.
Runners and athletes
Glucosamine is often used by runners and athletes participating in other sports who have leg injuries, as well as patients with osteoarthritis. It may allow people to reduce how much Non-Specific Anti-Inflammatory Drugs they need to take.
Knee osteoarthritis (mild-to-moderate)
Based on human research, there is good evidence to support the use of Glucosamine Sulphate in the treatment of mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis.
Human studies say that the benefits of Glucosamine Sulphate include improved joint function and pain relief owing to the anti-inflammatory effect. Although Glucosamine studies didn't report any benefits, these studies either included patients with severe osteoarthritis or used products without the essential Sulphate ingredient.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Human research studies have found that Glucosamine is beneficial in the treatment of joint pain and swelling in rheumatoid arthritis and improves the symptoms of the disease.
Leg pain
Human research has found that injections of Glucosamine plus Chondroitin showed benefits in the treatment of leg pain arising from advanced lumbar degenerative disc disease.
Sports injury rehabilitation
Glucosamine has been given to athletes with acute knee injuries, who found it improved their joint flexibility.
Runners' recommendations
Many runners report great benefits from using Glucosamine Sulphate and highly recommend it. And I suspect that those who haven't found it very helpful were probably taking a cheapo form that doesn't include the essential Sulphate component.
So, the best way to find out whether Glucosamine Sulphate could help you avoid injury, repair damaged cartilage and reduce painful inflammation is to buy some and try it yourself!
All leg pain, loss of flexibility or any injuries should always be evaluated by a qualified doctor, as they may be indications of serious damage or disease.