What is Glucosamine?

Glucosamine basics...

Glucosamine is organic compound that is vital for the growth and repair of connective tissue and cartilage. The amount in the body decreases with age.



In more detail...

Glucosamine is a natural compound that we all have within us. It plays an essential role in the formation and repair of cartilage found within the joints of the body.

Structurally, glucosamine consists of a glucose molecule with an amino acid called glutamine attached to it.

Glucosamine itself is not directly a structural molecule in cartilage but rather is needed for the formation of other molecules called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Chondroitin is an example of a GAG.

GAGs are structurally important in connective tissues, cartilage, tendons and synovial fluid - the fluid that lubricates our joints. Some GAGs go on to combine with a protein to form proteoglycans, some of which are again very important in the structure of connective tissues and cartilage, one specific example being the molecule aggrecan.

The other thing that these molecules do is increase water absorbancy of cartilage which makes it better able to withstand the shocks of impact in movement and physical activity. Healthy cartilage should be able to absorb shocks well, and dietary water intake is clearly important alongside good levels of GAG's and proteoglycans.


Glucosamine supplements

Glucosamine in supplements is generally sourced from sea food shells such as mussels and shrimps so should be avoided if you have an allergy to this but do check with the individual product.

Glucosamine dosages of about 1500mg are typical recommendations per day.