Glucosamine
According to Alan Carter PharmD from Medical News Today, glucosamine is crucial for building cartilage which is a flexible connective tissue that acts as padding at the end of long bones where they meet joints. (1)
Glucosamine is found naturally in the body. When we get older, the amount of glucosamine in the body might not be enough. Glucosamine is not in a lot of foods, and it can be hard to get all the glucosamine we need. Sources of glucosamine include bone broths and the shells of crustaceans including lobsters and shrimp. Taking glucosamine sulfate supplements can help us get the glucosamine we need.
What are the benefits?
1) Repairs and rebuilds cartilage
Glucosamine could help to repair and rebuild cartilage which can deteriorate through wear and tear. Osteoarthritis is caused by the wearing away of cartilage and therefore a supplement which helps to repair cartilage could help to alleviate the symptoms. For best results take 1500mg, for at least three months.
2) Alleviates pain, stiffness and inflammation
It may also relieve the stiffness and pain of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, torn ligaments and tendons. The swelling associated with these conditions may contribute to the pain you experience. Glucosamine could reduce pain and inflammation by improving the circulation of nutrients and fluids in the affected area.
3) May reduce the inflammation of arteries
Research suggests that glucosamine may modulate endothelial cell activation and reduce the inflammation associated with atherosclerosis. (2)
Glucosamine works well with
- Vitamin C as it helps to produce collagen and repair cartilage
- Chondroitin to draw synovial fluid and nutrients into the joint cartilage to help repair the joint and reduce pain and inflammation that comes associated with osteoarthritis
- Devils Claw Gel to diminish pain and swelling
- Manganese to help form connective tissues
- Apple cider vinegar, copper, fish oils like krill oil and manganese to relieve the symptoms of arthritis
- Rose Hips to help reduce inflammation
Some things to consider
According to WebMD, you should be cautious about using glucosamine if you have a shellfish allergy. You should also check with your doctor before taking any supplements, including glucosamine if you have diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, bleeding disorders, or high blood pressure.
If you take medications, including heart drugs, blood thinners, and diabetes drugs, consult your doctor before taking glucosamine. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take glucosamine (3)
Resources
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/265748
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18949387
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/supplement-guide-glucosamine
