Glucosamine (GL) C6H13NO5 and Chondroitin (CH) C13 H21 NO 15 S are nutritional supplements, they are helpful in relieving of joint pain by restoring cartilages or relieving joint damage, the condition is associated with osteoarthritis (OA). Glucosamine is also available as N-acetyl- glucosamine (NAG), glucosamine sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride.
Glucosamine is also referred to as the Chitosamine, it is a precursor and an amino acid, and it is formed from other substances through biochemical synthesis of the glycosylated proteins and lipids. Glucosamine is part of the polysaccharides chitosan and chitin. The composition of Glucosamine is from cell walls of fungi and it is also obtained from the exoskeletons of arthropods such as crustaceans. Glucosamine is one of the most common forms of monosaccharide.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin supplements are used to ease pain caused by arthritis, or what is commonly referred to as the osteoarthritis. There are other supplements used for the same purpose such as the (MSM) sulfonylmethane, although most of the scientific research is pegged on Glucosamine and Chondroitin.
Glucosamine is commercially produced through fermentation of grains such as corn and wheat; it is also produced through hydrolysis of the exoskeletons of the crustacean, mainly the coverings of the shellfish. Glucosamine and Chondroitin are considered to be part of the normal cartilage, and acts as a cushion in between the bones in the joints. Human body absorbs glucosamine very well.
Glucosamine has an added value to the human body, and it is found in various forms such as glucosamine hydrochloride, glucosamine sulfate and N-acetyl- glucosamine. Glucosamine and Chondroitin, whether taken alone or together are safe for the human body, with limited side effects. People allergic to shellfish are advised to see their doctors before taking Glucosamine and Chondroitin.
In absorbability of glucosamine, research has indicated that Glucosamine has a limited absorption rate in the intestines, and has a very high rate of bioavailability, capped at 100%. Ingesting Glucosamine and Chondroitin nourishes the joints, therefore reducing the chances of getting arthritis.
Glucosamine is extracted from a number of sources, such as the vegetarian glucosamine, from shell fish and from sweet potato.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin are compatible with a number of other elements used as dietary supplements.
Validity after extraction is largely 3 years for the glucosamine if well kept, while chondroitin has a validity of 2.5 years.
Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for glucosamine is 300 mg – 500 mg, taken three times in a day, therefore, in a day, the total or maximum dosage for the Glucosamine is 900 mg – 1500 mg.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin are best served in the form of tablets, they make a buffer or cushion surrounding the joints hence minimizing the chances of osteoarthritis, the disease is evident when the buffer or cushion on the joints becomes stiff and thinner. Glucosamine and chondroitin offer the buffer or cushion needed in preventing arthritis. Glucosamine sulfate, especially on that of sulfate, is believed to be the best, since sulfate is used by the human body in the production of cartilage.
There are a number of side effects attached to Glucosamine, and the side effects vary with the individuals. Common side effects are linked to Nausea, heartburn, constipation, diarrhea and increased intestinal gas.