Glucosamine is used by millions of people around the world suffering from joint pain and osteoarthritis. It is shown to be effective in aiding rehabilitation, renewal and the repair of joints. Approximately 12 million Europeans and 8 million Americans take Glucosamine as a supplement, but very little know exactly what it is, and why it benefits them. At Online Health Edge, we endeavor to give you all the information you need to make an informed decision on your products, and your health.

What is Glucosamine?

Glucosamine is a popular supplementation recommended to many joint pain sufferers around the globe. Glucosamine is made naturally in the body and is found in healthy cartilage. It consists of glucose and the amino acid glutamine. Glycosaminoglycan is a molecule used during cartilage formation and repair, and Glucosamine is needed to produce this. As we age, our production of glucosamine slows down, thus becoming more at risk to cartilage problems. Glucosamine supplementation addresses the underlying problem associating with joint degeneration.

In supplement form, Glucosamine is often combined with chondroitin sulfate, a molecule that is present in cartilage. It gives cartilage elasticity and is believed to help prevent the destruction of cartilage. These two combined leads to maximum absorption of the Glucosamine and a more effective treatment. When using Glucosamine, it is recommended that Chondroitin be taken at the same time. Most products now come with Chondroitin in the ingredients. Research on Glucosamine and Chondroitin has shown encouraging evidence that these supplements can provide help with treating osteoarthritis and cartilage degeneration problems.

Who can benefit from Glucosamine?

It is most commonly used in the treatment of osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint condition, and has been proven effective. Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis caused by the breakdown and eventual loss of the cartilage in a joint. Cartilage serves as a cushion in the joint. A common prescribed treatment for osteoarthritis are anti-inflammatory drugs. These are reported to have many side effects and they treat the pain and the swelling. Glucosamine is a naturally occurring substance in the body and it will address the underlying problem of joint degeneration and promote joint health. It is beneficial for anyone with cartilage related joint discomfort.

Many athletes suffer joint pain. Repetitive stress on the joints, in particular the knee, can cause cartilage degeneration. Where there is degeneration, there is pain. The cartilage protects the joint, it is basically a shock absorber. If this absorption is not there, swelling, pain and a poor range of motion will be evident. Glucosamine has been reported to reduce these symptoms and aid athletes and sports-people. There is the opinion that taking Glucosamine as a preventative measure is a passive way to help ward off osteoarthritis experienced by many athletes later in life, and that all athletes should do it. There is little evidence either way that Glucosamine can be used as athletes for prevention of osteoarthritis, but there are very little side effects, and many positive reports.

Click here to find out more information on how Joint Problems arise and here to read some information about joint health at any age (from Supple Bodies website).

Are there any side effects?

Minimal side effects have been noted in very few reports. These include skin rashes, headaches, downiness and mild stomach symptoms such as diarrhoea and flatulence. The long-term effects from use of glucosamine are not yet know. People who are allergic to the chitin in shellfish should be wary, Glucosamine is generally extracted from shellfish to make the supplement. Consult your doctor if you are allergic. Children, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid using glucosamine, as the effects are not known in these populations. Check with your doctor if you have impaired glucose intolerance or are diabetic before using Glucosamine as a supplement.


*Information on this site is provided for informational purposes only. It does not substitute for medical advice from your physician. The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration and are only an opinion. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. See a doctor for further information if you suspect you have a medical condition.