What Is L-Glucosamine?

L-Glucosamine is important for manufacturing the glycosaminoglycans that are found in cartilage. However, it can not be found in any significant amounts in food sources. It is mainly added into the diet through supplementation. Supplements are usually made from shells of crustaceans like shrimp, lobster, and crab. The main use of these supplements is to treat arthritis.

Forms

• Glucosamine sulfate is a form of stabilized Glucosamine. It is stabilized with mineral salt. This particular form has shown superiority in the treatment of osteoporosis in clinical trials. It is the most recommended form of glucosamine supplements.

  Glucosamine hydrochloride is another form that is available on the market as a dietary supplement. It has not been as widely researched as glucosamine sulfate. However, according to Dr. Alan R. Gaby, co-author of "The Natural Pharmacy," glucosamine hydrochloride in one trial, has shown some benefit when added into the diet at the dosage of 1,500 milligrams per day. This form of glucosamine is often taken with "up to 4,000 milligrams of acetaminophen a day."

Dosage

• L-Glucosamine supplements are not recommended for healthy people. The typical dose for osteoarthritis patients is up to 1,500 milligrams a day. This should be taken in three dosages of 500 milligrams three times a day. It is important to consult a physician before adding L-glucosamine supplements into the diet. A doctor will prescribe specific dosage requirements for the individual patient.

Side Effects

• According to Dr Gaby, side effects from taking glucosamine supplements at 1,500 milligrams per day have been very mild and reversible. Side effects include gastrointestinal problems. People who have peptic ulcers or who are taking diuretics typically experience more side effects than people without these conditions or who do not these medicines.

Interactions

• The use of glucosamine has been shown in animal trials to cause insulin resistance. This is because glucosamine may interfere with the enzyme that regulates the blood sugar levels in the body. People who take these supplements should have their blood sugar tested regularly to ensure normal blood sugar levels.

Glucosamine Chondroitin

• Glucosamine chondroitin supplements are readily available on the market and are often touted as being superior supplements to glucosamine sulfate. The Arthritis Glucosamine Information Center reports that the National Institute of Health recently completed a study in co-operation with thirteen American research universities to determine the value of the use of glucosamine and chondroitin. They conducted a random, double blind study with the use of placebos and supplements. Each osteoarthritis sufferer either took a 1,500 milligram dose a day or the placebo. The study concluded that the use of glucosamine and chondroitin, when paired together, reduced pain and joint inflammation significantly.