Healthspan Glucosamine

What is glucosamine?

Glucosamine is a substance that is naturally made in the body from a sugar (glucose) and an amino acid (glutamine). It is involved in the production of new cartilage and synovial fluid (the joint's oil). New research also suggests that glucosamine helps to damp down joint inflammation. The production of glucosamine is normally a slow process and as we age, we tend to produce less. As a result, it is often in short supply during the times when we need it most.

Benefits of Glucosamine

Glucosamine is used to make the building blocks (glycosaminoglycans, or GAGs) needed to repair damaged joints. GAGs help to make cartilage more resistant to compression. This allows it to spring back into shape when stressed during normal activities such as standing, walking and running. GAGs also help to maintain levels of synovial fluid and increase its cushioning ability. Together, these actions can reduce inflammation and help to slow the progression of age-related joint degeneration. A systematic review of 20 scientific trials found that, for people with osteoarthritis of the hips or knees, glucosamine was significantly more effective in reducing pain, and improving joint function, than an inactive placebo. Some studies also show it is more effective for reducing pain and inflammation than prescribed medicines, such as ibuprofen.

Glucosamine Sulphate (2KCl) & Glucosamine Hydrochloride (HCl)

Glucosamine sulphate 2KCl is commonly found in the shells of shellfish, animal bones and bone marrow and is often unsuitable for vegetarians. Glucosamine sulphate is much less chemically stable (compared to glucosamine hydrocholoride) and must be modified by the addition of either sodium or potassium chloride in order to prevent it from degrading. This does, however, mean that each tablet provides less pure glucosamine than glucosamine hydrochloride (HCl).

Glucosamine HCl is produced via fermentation of grain such as corn or wheat, therefore glucosamine HCl is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. Glucosamine HCl is far more chemically stable than glucosamine sulphate 2KCl and features less additional ingredients to the glucosamine itself in each tablet, providing more room for pure glucosamine per tablet.

Healthspan's Glucosamine

Further Reading

• Reducing joint pain the natural way
  Dr Sarah Brewer
• Nifty after fifty
  Dr Adam Carey