If you suffer from joint-related issues like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or any other condition caused by inflammation, then you may have heard of glucosamine. For years, experts have recommended the use of glucosamine for joints. These supplements are known to alleviate any pain in the joints and are also highly beneficial in maintaining healthy joints. Let us understand what these supplements constitute and what the benefits of glucosamine for your joints are.
Why You Should Use Glucosamine for Joints
Usually, glucosamine and chondroitin supplements are taken together to improve joint health. These are two substances that are found in the human body naturally. They are present in the connective tissues, particularly the cartilages. The benefits of glucosamine chondroitin can be attributed to its ability to utilize fats and proteins to repair any damage in cartilage. Here is a list of benefits of glucosamine:
1. Treatment for Osteoarthritis
The most common use of glucosamine and chondroitin supplements is treating the painful symptoms of osteoarthritis. However, there are contradicting results of studies conducted on these substances and their benefits for osteoarthritis. The National Institutes of Health conducted a 2-year-long study on over 600 people. The results showed that both glucosamine and chondroitin did not have any effect on joint pain.
On the other hand, a 6-year long study that was published in the ‘Arthritis Care and Research Journal’ showed that cartilage loss was significantly reduced in adults with osteoporosis. This shows that consistent use for a longer period of time gives you maximum benefits of glucosamine chondroitin.
The use of glucosamine is not restricted to supplements. In the UK and Europe, it is used as a medicinal substance and is found to be as effective as non-steroidal medication like Celecoxib. This medicine is used as an effective treatment for individuals with osteoarthritis. However, supplements are a safer option for those who do not respond well to such medications.
There are some studies that also support the use of glucosamine for TMJ or Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis. This is a type of arthritis that affects the jaw. A study conducted on 60 adults recorded the effects of ibuprofen, glucosamine, and placebo on TMJ. The results, after 90 days, revealed that glucosamine and ibuprofen had significant pain relief benefits.
2. Reduction of Inflammation
Glucosamine tablets benefits do not stop at joint health and pain relief. These supplements are also known to reduce inflammation significantly. When any part of the body is injured or infected, the body responds with an inflammation of the tissues. This allows the cells of the immune system to target the affected area.
However, in some cases, the inflammation persists even after the injury or infection is healed. This is called chronic inflammation which is associated with many health issues. This includes arthritis, diabetes, and heart issues. Studies show that consuming glucosamine tablets regularly helps manage this inflammation. As a result, you can prevent several chronic health issues.
3. Maintenance of Bone Health
Using glucosamine for joints is highly recommended for individuals who lead an active lifestyle. It is also a good idea to include this supplement in your diet when you are over 30 years of age. Most joint-related issues are a result of degeneration. This could be because of repeated stress on the joints or age. Women in their menopausal age, in particular, are at the risk of developing issues like osteoporosis and osteoarthritis.
Our cartilages are made up of cells called chondrocytes. They are responsible for maintaining its structure. As you age, the chondrocytes degenerate, leading to the deterioration of cartilages in your joints. Glucosamine and chondroitin are known to protect these cells and repair the damage.They can effectively reduce the rate of cartilage breakdown as you age.
As for individuals who work out or train regularly, inflammation in the joints due to wear and tear, is the primary reason for pain and discomfort. When it comes to managing inflammation, the benefits of glucosamine chondroitin play an important role in improving joint strength and mobility. Additionally, the preservation of cartilages protects your joints. They have a cushioning effect which prevents any chances of injury as a result of friction or strain when you are training for long periods of time.
A Word of Caution
While there are several glucosamine tablets benefits, there is also some risk of side effects. To some, these supplements may cause insomnia, nausea, and digestive issues. However, some people are at greater risk than others:
- Individuals with food allergies: Many glucosamine supplements use extracts from shellfish shells as the primary ingredient. So, if you have a history of fish or shellfish allergy, there is a good chance that these supplements will trigger adverse reactions.
- Individuals with diabetes: There are some studies that suggest that glucosamine supplements may have a negative effect on insulin resistance. As a result, they cause an imbalance in blood sugar levels in Diabetics.
- Individuals with liver-related issues: Some studies have also shown that consuming these supplements for a long period of time can lead to liver damage. This is because most supplements may contain additional active ingredients that put a lot of pressure on your liver, causing damage.
Conclusion
While there are several benefits of glucosamine for joints, it is best to consult your doctor before using these supplements. In order to prevent the above-mentioned side effects, you need to consume the right dosage of these compounds. Normally, a dosage of 1500mg of glucosamine per day is recommended. Exceeding this amount can significantly increase your chances of developing side effects.
Additionally, if you have any underlying health issues or are consuming any medication, make sure you get your doctor’s approval before including any supplement in your diet. These supplements work best when combined with a diet that is rich in omega-3, calcium, and proteins. This not only helps them prevent joint-related issues but also keeps your joints healthier for longer.
