Glucosamine is a naturally-occurring substance that is found in high levels in normal joints. It helps stimulate cartilage formation, which is important for the repair of damaged joints. It has also been found to improve the conditions of patients with mechanical arthritis and other skeletal conditions with immunological-reactive origins.
Glucosamine Supplements
Glucosamine supplements are considered dietary supplements and not pharmaceutical drugs. This means that they can be taken without a doctor’s prescription. Most glucosamine supplements are not marketed as cures for inflammation of the joints and other skeletal conditions but the supplement’s ability to improve these conditions is widely circulated. The substance is marketed instead as a useful supplement in strengthening the structure and integrity of the joints. It is also commonly sold with chondroitin sulfate.
Is Glucosamine Effective?
The efficacy of these supplements has been met with skepticism after numerous trials produced conflicting results. Large, industry-funded clinical studies involving the supplement found marked improvements in the conditions of participants, but smaller, independent studies found that the supplement has no effect on joint repair and pain reduction. The GAIT trial conducted by the National Institute of Health found that glucosamine and glucosamine+chondroitin sulfate combinations did not produce statistically significant improvements in the symptoms of patients suffering from mild pain due to inflammatory joint conditions. The study also revealed that the use of the supplement did not effectively relieve mild levels pain caused by inflammatory joint conditions, although it may have an effect on moderate to severe pain.
Side Effects of Glucosamine Use
Although the supplement is safe when taken in the recommended doses, patients often tend to take more when they feel that the supplement is not working. Going beyond the daily limit of glucosamine intake can predispose a person to pancreatic problems and increase a person’s risk for diabetes. Other potential side effects include stomach problems, constipation, headaches, and rashes.
Alternatives to Glucosamine Supplements
Aside from glucosamine supplements, there are various natural alternative options for the relief of the pain and discomfort brought by inflammatory joint diseases. These include avocado, boron, frankincense, to name a few. Avocado and soybean oil have been found to be effective at relieving the discomfort associated with inflammatory joint disease. Trials revealed that the oils were able to reduce the need for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for patients who suffered inflammations in their hip and knee joints. Ginger has also been shown to reduce inflammation when consumed in tea form. Other possible alternatives to glucosamine supplements include the trace mineral boron and frankincense.
Although the efficacy of glucosamine in relieving the pain and discomfort of people with joint diseases is widely debatable, you can always ask your doctor if taking these supplements can provide you with other related benefits. After all, although the supplement was found ineffective for mild pain, it may have a better effect on moderate to severe levels of pain. There are also other options which can help improve the condition of those suffering from arthritis if these supplements do not provide relief. Aside from the alternatives, healthy living consisting of exercise and the right diet can also help reduce the symptoms of joint inflammations.
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