All About Glucosamine

10 january 2024

Glucosamine is an amino sugar produced in the body from glucose and glutamine. It is a substance naturally found in the body, particularly in the joints. It is a building block for glycosaminoglycans, proteoglycans, and hyaluronic acid. Glucosamine plays a crucial role in the formation and maintenance of healthy cartilage, which is essential for smooth joint function.

What is Glucosamine?

Glucosamine is a natural compound found in our body. It is a building block of cartilage, the smooth tissue that protects our joints. Our body produces glucosamine itself. Glucosamine is not present in large quantities in our regular diet, so we rely on our own production. As we age, the production of glucosamine may decrease, which can lead to joint wear and joint pain. Therefore, glucosamine is popular as a supplement, especially among people with joint issues such as osteoarthritis.

The production of glucosamine decreases as we age.

Types of Glucosamine

There are different forms of glucosamine, including glucosamine hydrochloride, glucosamine sulphate, and N-acetylglucosamine.

Glucosamine sulphate is the most commonly used and researched form of glucosamine. In this variant, glucosamine is linked to sulphate, a salt that can easily bind with other molecules. It is derived from shellfish such as crabs and lobsters.

Glucosamine hydrochloride is an alternative form of glucosamine often used in dietary supplements. In this form, glucosamine is bound to a hydrochloride molecule, which is a hydrochloric acid. Glucosamine hydrochloride is generally obtained from corn or other plant sources.

N-acetylglucosamine is a derivative of glucosamine with an added acetyl group. This acetyl group makes the molecule more stable and better absorbed by the body. N-acetylglucosamine is extracted from the outer shell of shellfish.

Sources of Glucosamine

Glucosamine naturally occurs in very small amounts in certain foods.

Some natural sources of glucosamine:

Shellfish: The shells of shrimp, lobsters, crabs, mussels, and oysters.
Bone broth: Broth made from the bones of chicken, beef, or fish.

What Does Glucosamine Do?

Extensive research is being conducted on the exact mechanism and potential health effects of glucosamine. There is evidence that glucosamine plays a role in building cartilage. It may also help in reducing inflammation in the joints, thus playing a significant role in supporting flexibility and mobility. Glucosamine supplements are often used to alleviate joint pain and support cartilage health, especially in conditions like osteoarthritis.

Can I Take Glucosamine Supplements During Pregnancy?

There is limited information available on the safety of glucosamine supplements during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking supplements during pregnancy.

Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and MSM

The substances glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM are often combined in supplements. These substances work synergistically in the body, meaning they enhance each other's effects. MSM is a sulphur compound naturally present in the body, and chondroitin is a component of glycosaminoglycans. There is evidence that supplementation with glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM can support cartilage.

In Conclusion

Glucosamine plays a role in the formation of cartilage and the health of our joints. It may be particularly beneficial for individuals with joint issues. Glucosamine is not present in large quantities in our diet, so we rely on our own production.

Do you have more questions or are you looking for personal advice? Feel free to contact our health coaches via the online chat, or visit a Vitaminstore near you.