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Glucosamine
Glucosamine is an amino sugar and one of the prime
ingredients for making fluids that lubricate joints
and constructing new cartilage in the body. The body
produces glucosamine regularly throughout life;
however as one ages the amount of glucosamine created
by the body becomes less and less. This causes
cartilage to become less flexible. Aches and pains in
weight-bearing joints can increase, leading to limited
movement and freedom. Because glucosamine is an amino,
which is a type of building block, it is not a
substance that can be ingested by regularly eating any
certain food in particular. Those looking to increase
their levels of glucosamine for cartilage health and
function generally partake of glucosamine supplements.
Glucosamine supplements are derived from a substance
found in shellfish such as crab, shrimp and lobster-
which is why those allergic to shellfish are advised
against taking glucosamine. Chitin, (pronounced: kite-
in) the ingredient that makes up a large part of a
shellfishâ??s shell from which glucosamine is derived,
is processed to remove the calcium carbonate and
proteins. These substances are then run through the
process of hydrolysis to yield glucosamine.
Who should use glucosamine? Generally, the supplement
is intended for those who are looking to increase
their joint function and heath or those with mild to
moderate osteoarthritis. (Of course, no supplement
should be taken without first consulting a doctor,
especially in the case of diabetics, pregnant or
lactating women.) The supplement must be given time to
incorporate into the cartilage. Therefore, results
will not be noticeable right away. Benefits can be
expected in at least 1-3 months.
Because glucosamine works so well, there are many
brands and many types of glucosamine on the market. In
fact, choosing a supplement can be an overwhelming
task. However, with a few guidelines in mind, the
ability to choose a supplement that is just right for
the user can become easier.
In choosing a glucosamine supplement, pay close
attention to:
* The amount of glucosamine per daily dose- this
should be at least 1500 mg per day.
* The quality of the ingredients- there are many
companies who are merely jumping on the glucosamine
bandwagon who use low grade ingredients in their
supplements. Look for companies that use NAG (N-acetyl-
glucosamine), an expensive of form of glucosamine that
is superior to other forms of glucosamine found on the
market such as glucosamine sulfate and glucosamine
hydrochloride.
Adverse affects to glucosamine have been reported as
mild with no real severe reactions- even to those with
shellfish allergies. Of the affects reported, mild
bouts of stomach upset, such as nausea and vomiting or
diarrhea have occurred as have mild rashes,
drowsiness, headache and insomnia.
Marion Harris chief researcher and editor for
Pathways-Health invites you to visit their site to
learn more about taking a holistic approach to health
and wellness. And to discover the benefits of Flex
Protex ® an all natural joint supplement with
glucosamine for improved joint health.
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marion_Harris
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