About the nutrient
Glucosamine is a small water-soluble molecule (an amino-monosaccharide) that the body itself can produce as part of the structure of our joints. Glucosamine is one of the major building blocks of joints, as well as glycosaminoglycans such as hyaluronic acid.
Why do we need to supplement?
As demonstrated in research, glucosamine supplements may help maintain healthy joints while supporting cartilage in the joints. Joint tissues are susceptible to damage as a result of the normal ageing process, genetics, injuries, repetitive movements (such as work-related movement), lifting heavy weights incorrectly, being overweight/obese or avoiding strength-building exercise.
Healthy joints and cartilage are important for maintaining quality of life. The better your joints function, the easier it is for you to stay physically active and enjoy different activities.
How does it work in the body?
Glucosamine is used within the body to form more complex molecules (proteoglycans) necessary for the maintenance and repair of joint cartilage and related tissues (ligaments, tendons). Glucosamine may also increase proteoglycan synthesis in cartilage cells (chondrocytes), as well as inhibiting the action of the enzymes normally responsible for the breakdown of cartilage.
Benefits / Research
Studies show that supplementing glucosamine sulphate will reduce the rate of collagen (joint tissue) degradation and symptoms of osteoarthritis.
Reduces Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
In a double blind placebo trial, 1500mg daily long-term treatment with glucosamine sulphate slowed the progression of knee osteoarthritis. The study also noted decreases in pain and joint stiffness in those who took glucosamine supplements, as well as increase in joint function1.
In a further trial, not only did glucosamine sulphate reduce joint pain, it was shown to be comparable to medication (acetaminophen) without the side-effects 2.
Joint recovery
In some studies, glucosamine sulphate has demonstrated the ability to help support recovery from injuries, including improving the range of motion in an injured joint in 28 days of 1500mg of supplementation 3.
Protect from collagen breakdown
Various studies demonstrate that 1500mg of glucosamine can significantly reduce signs of collagen breakdown, the substance important for the health and structure of not only joints, but skin as well 4.
Potential in heart health
A recent study published in the british medical journal found that those who habitually took glucosamine tablets were less likely to develop heart and arterial diseases, stroke and less likely to die from these conditions. It is suggested that glucosamine anti-inflammatory effect is responsible, which is a benefit that extends throughout the body - not just the joints.
Bio-Glucosamine Super
Bio-Glucosamine Super contains 675 mg of glucosamine sulphate per tablet, the glucosamine form with the most documented clinical evidence.
References
- Pavelká K, Gatterová J, Olejarová M, Machacek S, Giacovelli G, Rovati L. Glucosamine Sulfate Use and Delay of Progression of Knee Osteoarthritis. Archives of Internal Medicine. 2002;162(18):2113.
- Herrero-Beaumont G, Ivorra J, del Carmen Trabado M, Blanco F, Benito P, Martín-Mola E et al. Glucosamine sulfate in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis symptoms: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study using acetaminophen as a side comparator. Arthritis & Rheumatism. 2007;56(2):555-567.
- Ostojic S, Arsic M, Prodanovic S, Vukovic J, Zlatanovic M. Glucosamine Administration in Athletes: Effects on Recovery of Acute Knee Injury. Research in Sports Medicine. 2007;15(2):113-124.
- Nagaoka. Evaluation of the effect of glucosamine administration on biomarkers for cartilage and bone metabolism in soccer players. International Journal of Molecular Medicine. 2009;24(04).
