How Does Glucosamine Help Joint Pain?
Glucosamine is the precursor to Glycosaminoglycans, amino acids that are naturally produced in your body to help form cartilage. Based on this, Glucosamine, in supplement form, is being used to treat joint pain stemming from osteoarthritis. Glucosamine is becoming vastly popular among arthritis sufferers as it is easily available at health food stores and pharmacies and is less expensive than some prescription drugs for joint pain. Although there seems to be mixed opinions in the medical world about how effective Glucosamine really is, patients have been singings its praises.
Is it safe?
Studies show that as a treatment for minor osteoarthritis pain, Glucosamine has been proven relatively harmless, though long-term use or use in large doses has not been studied enough to have any conclusive results. Some concerns you may wish to bring up to your doctor are if you are diabetic, as high levels of Glucosamine may interfere with blood glucose levels; if you are nursing or pregnant; or if you have a shell fish allergy. Many Glucosamine supplements are made from the shells of shellfish, and while an allergy usually occurs from eating the flesh of said fish, you may want to take precautions when using a supplement derived from the shells. There have not been any recorded problems from allergies recorded, but it is always best to monitor yourself to play it safe. As always, read the directions of the manufacturers and consult with your physician as well.
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