Where Is Glucosamine Extracted From?

Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound that is key in the body's ability to build and repair cartilage and connective tissue. Glucosamine supplements are marketed as a treatment for joint pain.

Glucosamine Supplements

• While glucosamine is found in the joint and marrow of almost every animal, glucosamine supplements get their compounds from the chitin of shellfish. Extracts of crab, lobster and shrimp are all purified so that all that remains is glucosamine sulphate. This is a carbohydrate rather than a protein.

Uses

• Glucosamine is primarily used as a supplement for osteoarthritis; however, the clinical data on its effectiveness is somewhat mixed, according to the University of Maryland.

Other Natural Sources

• Glucosamine is present in all joints and connective tissue. While Western cultures do not typically eat the marrow or cartilage of animal bones, they do use them in soup. A fresh broth made from beef or chicken bones can be a good natural source of glucosamine.

Allergies

• Those who are allergic to sulphates should not use glucosamine. Because it is derived from shellfish, those with shellfish allergies should use care when taking glucosamine.

Warnings

• Because it is a carbohydrate, diabetics must carefully monitor their blood sugar when using glucosamine. Also, because shellfish absorb many ocean-borne chemicals, it is important to purchase glucosamine from a reputable source. Glucosamine has not yet been tested on the unborn, so it should not be used by pregnant women.