About Glucosamine

What is Glucosamine?

Glucosamine sulphate is natural chemical compound found in the joints. Glucosamine is a form of amino sugar which is needed by the body to repair the cartilage and other connective tissues.

Glucosamine is helpful in lubrication of joints as we get older, our body may need a little help in maintaining the overall health and well-being of our bones and joints. Glucosamine is also needed for the synthesis of synovial fluid which is a vital cushioning substance which protects the joints from the damaging effects of friction.

Studies have indicated Glucosamine being safe and non-toxic; however the most common side effects are upset stomach, gas, and indigestion or heat burn.

Types of Glucosamine

Glucosamine is available in 3 different types
1) Glucosamine Sulphate
2) Glucosamine Hydrochloride (HCL)
3) Glucosamine NAS

Glucosamine Sources

Glucosamine sulphate is normally derived from hard outer shells of shrimp, lobsters and crabs. However the Natural Sources of Glucosamine is the connective tissue of animals, such as chicken marrow.

The vegetarian Glucosamine is extracted from maize, which is Shell Fish Free Glucosamine for Joint & Cartilage.

Benefits of Glucosamine
1. Glucosamine sulphate plays a role in the smooth working of joints.
2. Glucosamine sulphate helps maintain overall health and well-being of bones and joints.
3. Glucosamine helps maintain supple and flexible joints.

Glucosamine Forms
1. Glucosamine Tablets
2. Glucosamine Capsules
3. Glucosamine Gel
4. Glucosamine Powder
5. Liquid Glucosamine
6. Glucosamine Patches

Glucosamine Dosage
Glucosamine is available is various strengths such as
1. Glucosamine 750mg
2. Glucosamine 820mg
3. Glucosamine 1000mg
4. Glucosamine 1500mg
However the recommended daily dosage for Glucosamine sulphate is 1500mg.

Combinations of Glucosamine sulphate

Glucosamine sulphate is available in with various combinations, the most popular being Glucosamine & Chondroitin. The various combinations are listed below

1. Glucosamine & Chondroitin
2. Glucosamine & Chondroitin Plus MSM
3. Glucosamine with Cod Liver Oil
4. Glucosamine with Collagen
5. Glucosamine with Multivitamins
6. Glucosamine with celadrin
7. Glucosamine with Vitamin C
8. Glucosamine with Omega 3 Fish oil

Glucosamine for Pets

Unlike humans, Glucosamine is highly effective for joint health of pets. Glucosamine has also been used by veterinarians to treat arthritis in pets like dogs & horses. Mentioned below are the signs and symptoms when Glucosamine may be need for you pets like cats and dogs.

1. Difficulties in reacting to normal routine like walking, jumping or climbing up the stairs
2. Lethargy or limping
3. Difficulties getting up when lying down
4. Sign of pain to any contact like petted

The dosage of Glucosamine required for your pet may depend on the condition of the pet. However the recommended daily dosage of Glucosamine sulphate would be 6 capsules or 2 OZ.
Glucosamine might ease the pet’s joint pain in 10-15 days, in some cases it might take even a month.

The best form of Glucosamine for pets would be liquid Glucosamine as many pets don’t react friendly while taking pills down the throat. Glucosamine tablets can be mixed with the dog food but it would lose in the teeth while chewing.

For a long time glucosamine has been known to be useful for those suffering from joint related problems. Glucosamine is one of the most popular dietary supplements available for maintaining healthy joints.

A recent survey in UK revealed that most people who knew about glucosamine sulphate tablets were not sure about the right dosage and possible side –effects.

Recommended daily dose of Glucosamine Sulfate

Although there is no “official recommended glucosamine dose”, most experts using Glucosamine Sulfate would recommend the following, based on your weight:

200 lbs. (91 kg) or less - 1,500mg of Glucosamine Sulfate per day
Over 200 lbs.(91 kg) - 2,000mg- 2,250mg per day

The amount most frequently taken by adults is 500 mg glucosamine sulphate tablets three times per day.

Most people report that their pain starts to decrease after taking Glucosamine Sulfate for approximately 2 months.

Dr. Biain says “Don’t be discouraged if your pain is not immediately reduced. You should take Glucosamine sulfate for at least three months at the maximum recommended dose. Once your pain begins to subside, you may start to slowly decrease the amount of your Glucosamine sulfate. If your pain returns, you should increase your dosage to the maximum dosage for another two to three months.”

Glucosamine Sulphate Side effects

One of the best attributes of Glucosamine Sulphate is its ability to target the underlying cause of your arthritis with causing very few unwanted side effects.

In recent scientific studies, Glucosamine Sulphate has been shown to have a significantly lower rate of unwanted side effects while producing superior long-term relief of pain associated with osteoarthritis.

The most commonly reported side effect of glucosamine sulphate was gastrointestinal discomfort (upset stomach) which was well below the reported side effects of NSAIDS. There has also been some question of the ability of Glucosamine Sulfate to elevate blood sugars; however, there has been no substantial evidence to support this claim.

Dr Brian advises,” If you are considering the use of Glucosamine Sulfate or any other nutritional supplement, you should discuss this with your physician.”

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