Glucosamine is a compound found in the human body in healthy cartilage. Cartilage is the tough but flexible connective tissue that is found in the joints. Cartilage contains no blood vessels, so unlike bone it lacks the ability to regenerate. This means that if cartilage wears down it can cause joint inflammation and significant pain and debility. Glucosamine can be added to the diet to help reduce wear and tear on cartilage.
What Is Glucosamine?
Glucosamine is an amino sugar. It is made from chitin (shellfish shells). Glucosamine's function is to help with joint movement and repair. According to the Arthritis and Glucosamine Resource Center, although everyone produces glucosamine, as we grow older our bodies gradually become unable to produce enough. Too little glucosamine means that we cannot produce sufficient synovial fluid, which lubricates joints. When this happens, cartilage begins to harden thereby reducing joint movement.
Glucosamine and Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disorder of the joints. According to MayoClinic.com, it is the most common form of arthritis. It can affect any of the body's joints but is usually found in the hips, knees, neck, hands and lower back. There is currently no cure for osteoarthritis. However, glucosamine can help to reduce the damage to cartilage that leads to osteoarthritis.
Sources of Glucosamine
There are no natural food sources of glucosamine, so the only way to incorporate it into your daily diet is by taking a supplement. Supplements are derived from the shell of lobster, crab and shrimp. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, there are other sources available, such as fermented corn, for those who are allergic to shellfish.
How to Choose a Glucosamine Supplement
According to the Arthritis and Glucosamine Resource Center, you should choose a high-grade, pharmaceutical-quality glucosamine supplement. A liquid supplement is more beneficial that a powdered supplement as it will be more readily absorbed by the body. You should also choose a glucosamine supplement that contains other beneficial ingredients. The Center recommends supplements that are combined with bromelain, chondroitin, manganese, yucca or boswellin.
How to Take a Glucosamine Supplement
For osteoarthritis, the University of Maryland Medical Center, recommends taking glucosamine sulfate or hydrochloride at a daily dosage of 500 mg, 3 times daily, for 30 to 90 days. As an alternative, you may take a 1,500 mg dose once each day. Before taking a glucosamine supplement for osteoarthritis, you should discuss your condition with your health care practitioner.
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