Glucosamine, a chemical naturally produced by the body, is present in the fluid around the joints and helps to build cartilage. It is also available in supplemental form and some rare dietary sources. Consult your physician before taking any supplements or making changes to your diet.
Benefits of Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a common treatment for osteoarthritis. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that glucosamine may help to relieve joint pain and improve joint function for people with osteoarthritis of the knee or hip. Taking glucosamine daily may also help to reduce joint swelling and stiffness. However, research on the exact benefits of glucosamine is mixed. Glucosamine is also used for weight loss and to treat glaucoma and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthritis of the jaw, but there is insufficient evidence to rate the effectiveness of glucosamine for these uses.
Shellfish
Chitin, the hard outer shells of shellfish, is a natural source of glucosamine, and most glucosamine supplements contain this substance. However, Americans generally do not eat shells of crabs, lobsters and shrimps, even though these are good dietary sources of glucosamine. In some recipes, shells may be ground down to add into stews and soups. For instance, crab shells are an ingredient in crab bisque recipes and provide you with some glucosamine.
Animal Cartilage
Glucosamine is also in the cartilage tissue of other animals. A cow’s snout or joint tissue are good dietary sources of glucosamine, but these types of foods are rarely eaten in the United States. Some recipes call for the use of internal organs of animals, and these will increase your glucosamine intake. Though not generally eaten, shark cartilage also has a healthy dose of glucosamine and is included in some supplements.
Fortified Foods
Manufacturers fortify a number of food products, such as beverages and chocolate chews, with glucosamine to help you boost your intake of the substance. Medline Plus recommends a dose of 1,500 mg per day or 500 mg three times a day to help treat osteoarthritis. Glucosamine can interact with certain medications, so check with your physician or pharmacist before you begin eating glucosamine-fortified foods.
Member Comments