Is Glucosamine An Effective Supplement For Treating Arthritis?

Glucosamine is an effective supplement for arthritis and related joint pain that has recently enjoyed a surge in popularity. Glucosamine has been studied for over 20 years by doctors and medical researchers and there have been several studies and clinical trials done on its efficacy and effectiveness. Glucosamine is taken primarily to reduce wear and tear on joints and some study results suggest that taking glucosamine for arthritis can block some of the enzymes that affect dog joint cartilage degeneration.

Glucosamine is a naturally occurring substance in the human body and its primary role is to keep joints healthy and lubricated. As we age, our bodies start producing less and less glucosamine, resulting in increased pressure on the joints and an increased need for supplementation. The increased pressure leads to the cartilage degeneration, discomfort and bone spurs.

Glucosamine is a type of amino sugar (glucose and glutamine) which synthesizes proteins and lipids in our diets and forms a major part of joint cartilage. This substance acts like a sponge to hold synovial fluid (the fluid in the joint) and gives cartilage its elasticity. Glucosamine is found in almost all bodily tissues, but the joints and ligaments contains higher concentrations than any other type of tissue.

Two forms of glucosamine are used in supplements: glucosamine hydrochloride and glucosamine sulphate. Glucosamine sulphate is the the type of glucosamine that is used in the majority of supplement research. Sulfides in glucosamine sulphate can cause digestive discomfort and allergic reactions in some people, however, and that is why both types of glucosamine are combined together to be used in supplements.

Doctors favor glucosamine supplements over NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory) drugs such as ibuprofen, aspirin and Celebrex or other prescriptions. NSAIDs have the potential to do more harm that good to joints because they speed up the breakdown of cartilage rather than preserving it as glucosamine is meant to do. Glucosamine is also considered to be a preventative measure as well as a treatment instead of being just a temporary relief agent and buffer like NSAIDs.

The recommended dose of glucosamine in both adult males and females is 500 milligrams taken three times per day. In more advanced cases of degeneration or for people with higher weight, doctors recommend 1000 milligrams twice per day. The longer the glucosamine is taken, the more benefits it will give. It is always recommended to discuss glucosamine supplementation with your doctor before beginning any supplement routine.

About the Author:
On our site we offer all natuarl glucosamine supplements for treating the effects of joint arthritis.

Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com

Tags: glucosamine

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