Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a naturally occurring substance that the body requires for the health of joint tissue, which includes cartilage, tendons and the slippery fluid that keeps joints mobile, known as synovial fluid. Cartilage is required to act like a ‘cushion’ for shock absorption and smooth joint movements. Glucosamine is also a component of blood vessels, heart valves, skin, bones and mucus secretions that keep things moving in the digestive, urinary and respiratory systems.
Glucosamine helps to nourish the joints and helps to reduce further damage to the joints. It stimulates the manufacture of substances needed for healthy joint function and repair. It does this by helping the body to rebuild damaged cartilage as well as produce new cartilage. This may help to temporarily reduce joint pain and swelling and improve joint function and mobility associated with mild osteoarthritis.
Benefits of Glucosamine
- Temporary relief of the pain of mild osteoarthritis
- Symptomatic relief and management of mild osteoarthritis
- Temporary relief of joint tenderness and swelling
- Assisting with reducing inflammation of mild osteoarthritis
- Assisting with reducing damage and loss of cartilage
- Supporting athletes by maintaining joint cartilage health
- May provide temporary relief of knee pain associated with mild osteoarthritis and increase mobility and function.
Dietary sources of Glucosamine
As we get older our ability to produce glucosamine decreases, which can lead to gradual deterioration of the joint. Glucosamine occurs in chitin from the shells of prawns and crustaceans. There are no major food sources of glucosamine, so taking a supplement is the most popular option. Most glucosamine supplements are sourced from the outer shells of shellfish, so it is important to check with your doctor if you are allergic to shellfish before taking. Also for those who need to be aware of their blood sugar, the use of glucosamine may need to be monitored.