What Is Glucosamine & Msm?

Glucosamine and MSM are compounds that are often used in conjunction with one another combined into supplement form. These supplements are advertised to support joint health, relieve joint pain and treat the symptoms of osteoarthritis, among other claims. While manufacturers and many supplement users attest to their effectiveness, research done on these supplements has had conflicting results.

Glucosamine

Glucosamine is an amino sugar that is naturally manufactured by the body. Amino sugars differ from other sugars in that they do not provide energy to the body, but rather play a role in the structure of body tissues. According to University of Maryland Medical Center, glucosamine is a structural component of cartilage, which makes up the body's joints and is essential in the processes that develop and maintain that cartilage. However, the aging process can reduce the body's ability to manufacture glucosamine, leaving less of this compound available for the repair of cartilage damaged by everyday stresses on the joints, a factor that can contribute to a gradual deterioration of the body's weight-bearing joints. For this reason, glucosamine supplements have become popular, marketed as a means by which the body can be provided with ample supplies of this compound to avoid joint deterioration.

MSM

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, MSM, or methylsulfonylmethane, is a sulfur-containing compound that occurs in some plants, fruits and vegetables, certain grains and milk. They also state MSM is important in joint health, helping to form connective tissue--such as cartilage, tendons and ligaments--and may also slow nerve impulses that transmit pain signals. Dietary sources of MSM include protein-rich animal products, such as meat, poultry, seafood and eggs. Vegetable sources of this mineral include legumes, garlic, onion, Brussels sprouts and wheat germ. MSM is widely available as a dietary supplement, and is frequently combined with other ingredients and included in supplements formulated for joint health.

Claims

Glucosamine and MSM supplements are marketed for the support of joint health. Supplementing the body's supply of these compounds is said to aid in joint maintenance, speed the healing of joint injuries and relieve joint pain and inflammation due to osteoarthritis.

Research

The use of glucosamine and MSM in the treatment of osteoarthritis does have some scientific backing. According to a study published in Clinical Drug Investigation, glucosamine and MSM, used in combination, produced an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect in osteoarthritis, and the combination of the two showed better results in reducing pain and swelling and in improving joint function than either supplement alone. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, while some studies have shown these supplements effective in slowing the progression of osteoarthritis, others have indicated they provide no more benefit than a placebo. While many users swear by these joint maintenance supplements, in the scientific community, the jury is still out on their true benefits.

Cautions

While glucosamine and MSM are naturally present in the body and are generally well-tolerated by those who use them as dietary supplements, some side effects can occur. Among these are digestive issues, such as stomach upset, diarrhea, heartburn and flatulence. People with seafood allergies should avoid glucosamine products derived from seafood sources, making sure to choose supplements extracted from vegetable matter. Other possible side effects include sun sensitivity, headaches and skin reactions.