Glucosamine for healthy joints

Glucosamine is a naturally occurring substance in the body and is one of the key building blocks of mucopolysaccharides such as glucosaminoglycans (GAGs) and proteoglycans that form the framework of cartilage. Cartilage serves as a cushion between bones allowing joints to move smoothly without friction or pain.

Supplemental glucosamine is an important substance that has been shown to assist in the maintenance of healthy joints. It is normally derived from chitin found in the shells of crustaceans such as crabs, prawns and lobsters. Vegetarian Glucosamine is also available, an alternative for those allergic to shellfish. Vegetarian sources of glucosamine are derived from Aspergillus niger, a fungus that has an outer shell rich in chitin similar to what is found in crustacean shells.

Glucosamine has been shown to be of benefit for osteoarthritis, a condition where cartilage begins to breakdown causing pain, stiffness and loss of flexibility in the affected joints. A clinical trial involving 202 subjects with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis found that long term treatment (3 years) with supplemental glucosamine reduced joint pain and inflammation, and increased joint mobility.[i]

Glucosamine, Chondroitin and MSM

Whilst glucosamine appears to be beneficial on its own, it is often combined with substances such as chondroitin and MSM for added benefit.

Chondroitin sulfate is an important glycosaminoglycan (GAG) found in joint cartilage.

Chondroitin sulfate acts as bait attracting fluid into cartilage which then provides shock absorption for surrounding bones and supplies nutrients to joint cartilage. Chondroitin sulfate has been shown in studies to temporarily relieve pain in people with moderate to severe knee pain due to osteoarthritis.[ii]

MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is a source of dietary sulphur which is required for the proper synthesis and maintenance of connective tissue such as joints, tendons and cartilage. One trial found that pain and swelling associated with osteoarthritis was reduced faster with a combination of glucosamine and MSM than either ingredient alone.[iii]

Glucosamine sulfate or Glucosamine hydrochloride?

There are two forms of supplemental glucosamine available, glucosamine sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride.  Studies have shown that both glucosamine sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride produce similar results for the symptomatic relief of osteoarthritis.[iv] Both forms are well absorbed, utilised and tolerated by the body.