How to Use Glucosamine

Glucosamin, a carbohydrate, is used by the body to form cartilage. Many physicians recommend the use of glucosamin supplements to treat different forms of arthritis. Taking glucosamin supplements is believed to improve the ability of damaged cartilage to heal. Glucosamin supplements are also fairly cheap in comparison to other arthritis medications.

Instructions

• 1

  Buy glucosamine supplements. They are available in the form of pills at any health food or vitamin stores. You can buy glucosamine supplement online at drugstore.com (see Resources below). Read the labels carefully and review all components present in the pills.

• 2

  Be aware of the side effects glucosamine, which may include diarrhea, stomach pain and heartburn. Stop using glucosamine supplements if you have these symptoms.

• 3

  Consult with your doctor about the use of glucosamine supplements if you have diabetes. Glucosamine supplements have been shown to increase glucose levels in people with diabetes.

• 4

  Be aware that glucosamine works best for early arthritis. If you have severe arthritis and the cartilage is already broken down, do not expect a lot of improvement from using glucosamine.

• 5

  Use glucosamine in combination with other methods to treat arthritis. Glucosamine, by itself, will not solve the problem. Exercise according to instructions from your doctors and avoid activities that might aggravate pains.