Glucosamine is a compound that is naturally found in the body, but over time, the body loses the ability to maintain enough glucosamine to properly lubricate joint cartilage. Glucosamine supplementation is an easy and natural way to replace this compound and alleviate the effects of this loss.
As one of the most commonly used dietary supplements in the world, there are many scientific trials that have evaluated its efficacy and safety. Overall (with side effects similar to those of placebos) glucosamine compared favorably to ibuprofen for long-term reduction of osteoarthritis pain and its benefits have been highlighted by chiropractors for years.
Glucosamine is supplied in different forms: glucosamine sulfate, hydrochloride, or N-acetyl. Studies show that while all forms of glucosamine are effective, glucosamine hydrochloride and glucosamine sulfate are the most effective. The majority of glucosamine studies recommend a daily dose of 1500mg.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF GLUCOSAMINE SUPPLEMENTS?
Beyond pain and symptom relief, the effects of glucosamine on progression and joint structure changes have also been evaluated. Multiple randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials demonstrate that long-term treatment with glucosamine sulfate is a safe and effective treatment in osteoarthritis, impairing disease progression, and positively altering joint structure. Research also confirms glucosamine to be very safe and well-tolerated comparable to placebo. And with the introduction of GlucosaGreen®, this treatment option can be used by those with a shellfish allergy.
Beyond the well-documented studies on glucosamine supplements for joint pain, the medical community continues to study this versatile compound for other benefits. One recent study shows that glucosamine can help reduce lung injury during radiation treatment for cancer patients. Identifying this compound as a potential treatment available to doctors to prevent this type of injury.