Naturally occurring glucosamine helps repair cartilage and other body tissues. Although cartilage production slows with age, it is vital for joint health. While cartilage and joint issues are the most common reasons to take a glucosamine supplement, there are other bodily functions that can benefit from the supplement.
Read below to discover more about glucosamine supplements.
What is Glucosamine supplement?
Glucosamine supplements are created from a substance called chitin, which is found in the shells of crab, lobster and other sea creatures. Chondroitin sulfate is often combined, which helps cartilage remain elastic and healthy.
Why do people need to take Glucosamine supplements?
Glucosamine supplements are taken by people who have osteoarthritis, especially when it affects their knees. People with osteoarthritis experience damage to their cartilage, the rubbery substance that cushions joints. Evidence has shown that a glucosamine supplement slows the progression of osteoarthritis and helps reduce knee pain and stiffness. Other conditions that glucosamine can help include rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel, chronic venous insufficiency and certain skin conditions.
Are there any side effects from glucosamine supplements?
Side effects from glucosamine supplements might include drowsiness, headache, insomnia and mild digestive complaints. It may also negatively impact blood sugar levels. People who are allergic to shellfish should contact the manufacturer to ensure how a particular glucosamine supplement is produced to reduce the possibility of allergic reactions.
Are there any special considerations?
People with bleeding disorders, taking blood-thinning medication or are on a daily aspirin therapy should have their blood checked for clotting issues and adjust their dosage. Women who are pregnant or are breastfeeding should not take a glucosamine supplement, as it has not been sufficiently researched.
What is the advised dosage of Glucosamine?
Initial doses should be 1500mg, plus 1200 mg of chondroitin for 6 to 8 weeks. Eventually, the dose can be reduced to 1000mg of glucosamine and 800 of chondroitin.
Just like with any supplement, vitamin or herb, a physician or medical care provider should always be consulted before taking anything new. Some medications can be affected by taking a glucosamine supplement, while other people may have specific allergies to it.
Sources
http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/glucosamine/evidence/hrb-20059572
http://osteoarthritis.about.com/od/alternativetreatments/a/glucosamine.htm
http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/herbsvitaminsek/a/Glucosamine.htm
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