Prostate cancer is very treatable, especially when caught early, and some supplements may be helpful in fighting the disease. Glucosamine is a natural supplement that has shown antitumor properties, and while this is still being studied, it may be beneficial for some patients. Talk with your doctor about the possible risks and benefits of glucosamine if you have prostate cancer, and whether this supplement is safe and appropriate for your situation.
Glucosamine
Cartilage is important in cushioning joints, and the body produces a substance called glucosamine, which helps build cartilage. Glucosamine is also available in supplement form, and it has been used to help relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis. The supplement may also be helpful in easing symptoms of irritable bowel disease, although more research is still being done on the benefits of glucosamine. Common side effects of this supplement can include upset stomach, bloating and diarrhea, but this can be alleviated by taking it with food.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in the United States, notes the Prostate Cancer Foundation, and it is diagnosed in 1 out of 6 men. The prostate is a gland that is part of the male reproductive system and secretes substances that aid in sperm mobilization. This is usually a slow-growing cancer, although there are some types of prostate cancer that are very aggressive. Because prostate cancer does grow slowly, treatment is not always necessary; when called for, treatment may include radiation, hormone therapy, surgery or chemotherapy.
Glucosamine and Prostate Cancer
Apoptosis is cell death, which is an important concept in killing cancer cells, and glucosamine has been associated with the regulation of apoptosis, making it a possible tool in treating cancer. A study published in "Experimental and Molecular Medicine" in June 2011 found that glucosamine inhibited some forms of prostate cancer cells, and it interfered with cell activity and promoted apoptosis. Another study, published in September 2009 in "Cancer Cell International," found that glucosamine suppressed prostate cancer cell signaling and induced apoptosis in certain cell lines. More research needs to be done, but these results illustrate possible treatment options with glucosamine. If you have prostate cancer, talk with your oncologist about whether glucosamine may be beneficial for you.
Warnings
Glucosamine should not be used as a substitute for any treatments your oncologist has prescribed. Prior to using glucosamine, talk with your doctor about any other supplements and medications you may be on, to reduce the likelihood of any adverse interactions. Some glucosamine preparations are made from shellfish, so if you have shellfish allergies you should ask your doctor prior to using any glucosamine product, recommends the University of Maryland Medical Center.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Glucosamine
- Prostate Cancer Foundation: What Is Prostate Cancer?
- "Experimental and Molecular Medicine"; Glucosamine Induces Cell Death via Proteasome Inhibition in Human ALVA41 Prostate Cancer Cell; B.Q. Liu, et al.; June 2011
- "Cancer Cell International"; Glucosamine Suppresses Proliferation of Human Prostate Carcinoma DU145 Cells Through Inhibition of STAT3 Signaling; V. Chesnokov, et al.; September 2009
