Recent research (Drovanti A, Bignamini A, Rovati A. Therapeutic
Activity of Oral Glucosamine Sulfate in Osteoarthritis: A
Placebo-Controlled Double-Blind Investigation. (1998) Clinical
Therapeutics 3(4) 260-272.) demonstrates that glucosamine
sulphate is a nutritional supplement that alleviates and possibly
reverses the side effects of osteoarthritis. This supplement may
therefore allow athletes and other individuals who are unable to
train due to osteoarthritis related joint pain and other symptoms
to resume training at their previous intensity levels. Glucosamine
sulfate is an amino acid sugar composed of the amino acid
glutamine and glucose. Its primary functions related to joint
health are the prevention of cartilage damage by free radical
compounds, and possibly cartilage growth.
In one study, eighty subjects diagnosed with varying degrees of
osteoarthritis were given either a placebo supplement or 1.5 grams
of glucosamine sulfate per day for thirty days. Tests to determine
joint swelling, pain, and mobility were performed on all of the
subjects each week throughout the study. Some subjects using
either the placebo or glucosamine supplement also had a sample of
their joint cartilage studied with an electron microscope
following thirty days of supplementation. Each subject was also
monitored for possible side effects during the course of the
study.
Results from the experiment indicated that glucosamine
sulfate supplementation produced a 72% decrease in joint pain and
increase in mobility. These positive results were seen after
approximately three weeks of supplementation. Joint swelling also
decreased to a small degree in the individuals using the
glucosamine supplement. Microscopic evaluation of the subjects
cartilage indicated that glucosamine sulfate supplementation may
also help to synthesize new joint cartilage. Further studies are
needed to examine glucosamine’s cartilage regenerating
properties with a greater number of subjects. Lastly, none of the
subjects in the study indicated any negative side effects while
supplementing with glucosamine sulfate. The results presented
in this study indicate glucosamine sulfate is a safe and effective
supplement to help alleviate joint related pain due to
osteoarthritis. From the results mentioned in this study, it
appears that three weeks of supplementation at the dosage
mentioned are required to see any positive results. When used
properly, it seems that glucosamine may allow people to workout
and experience a better quality of life in terms of their physical
performance. Glucosamine is only one of several supplements that
have been identified as preventing, relieving and possibly curing
osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and many other related
autoimmune diseases.
**Statements contained herein
have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These
products are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent
disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider
before changing any medication.**
|