The Importance of Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a compound found naturally in our body and has a fundamental role in cartilage structure, the tissue that cushions the joints. [i] The lack of this essential compound can be reflected in conditions such as Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and chronic joint pain, among other conditions. Moreover, several studies have shown Glucosamine to provide some relief in pain associated with these conditions, as well as slowing joint degeneration. This article aims to expose some of the benefits of Glucosamine on joint health.
Glucosamine is used by the body to develop other chemicals that help build tendons, ligaments, and the fluid surrounding joints. [ii] As it is not commonly found in foods, this compound is often sold as a supplement in drops, capsules, or topical forms. Moreover, the Glucosamine used in these products is obtained from shellfish shells, animal cartilage, or ultimately made in labs. [iii] Also, taking Glucosamine may help increase cartilage and fluid around joints which prevent their breakdown.
Glucosamine deficiency is most commonly associated with aging. As we get older, the fluid that contains essential nutrients like Glucosamine thins and weakens. Glucosamine deficiency can cause aches, pains, joint stiffness, joint immobility, and increased inflammation. Glucosamine supplementation has been shown to be an effective treatment that can help maintain joint mobility, improve cartilage production, stimulate collagen production, and slow the aging process in both men and women.
Glucosamine use to help relieve joint pain & Osteoarthritis (OA), does it really work?
A National Institutes of Health (NIH) study compared two groups of patients with mild knee pain to determine the benefits that glucosamine supplementation might bring to their condition. The results revealed that patients who received the glucosamine-containing supplement had better short-term pain relief (after six months) than those who received a placebo. Also, participants in several European studies reported that taking glucosamine supplements made their knees feel and function better. [iv]
Glucosamine sulfate’s efficacy and safety were investigated in several randomized, controlled clinical trials involving patients with OA.
Intramuscular glucosamine sulfate (400 mg twice a week for six weeks) was compared to a placebo. The glucosamine sulfate group had a significant difference in the decrease in the Lequesne’s index (an index originally developed to identify patients needing surgical joint replacement) at the end of the treatment and two weeks after drug discontinuation compared to the placebo group. [v]
As people age, their cartilage becomes less flexible and begins to degrade. This can result in pain, inflammation, and tissue damage, as seen in osteoarthritis. [vi] Although more research is needed, several patients have reported feeling better after using Glucosamine-based health products akin to Dr. T’s Glucosamine Cream and oral supplements like Dr. T’s Joint Support. However, it is essential to consult with your physician before taking any supplement.
Embrace the power of nature and get back to the activities you enjoy the most pain-free with Dr. T!
References:
[i] National Institutes of Health (November, 2014), Glucosamine and Chondroitin for Osteoarthritis. Retrieved on August 29, 2022: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/glucosamine-and-chondroitin-for-osteoarthritis
[ii] WebMD, Glucosamine – Uses, Side Effects, and More. Retrieved on August 29, 2022: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-807/glucosamine
[iii] Arthritis Foundation, Glucosamine and Chondroitin for Osteoarthritis Pain. Retrieved on August 29, 2022: https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/complementary-therapies/supplements-and-vitamins/glucosamine-chondroitin-osteoarthritis-pain
[iv] National Institutes of Health (November, 2014), Glucosamine and Chondroitin for Osteoarthritis. Retrieved on August 29, 2022: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/glucosamine-and-chondroitin-for-osteoarthritis
[v] Springer Link (March, 2012), Role of glucosamine in the treatment for osteoarthritis. Retrieved on August 29, 2022: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00296-012-2416-2
[vi] National Center for Biotechnology Information (July, 2013), The Age-Related Changes in Cartilage and Osteoarthritis. Retrieved on August 29, 2022: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/P
Author: Cristian Ocampo
Editor: Pedro Calvo
