A deficiency of glucosamine reduces the rate of production of these macromolecules leading to specific tissue weakness. When tissues experience trauma, the amount of glucosamine normally synthesized by the body may be insufficient for quick repair. The tissue areas containing these glucosamine macromolecules include; cartilage, tendons, ligaments, synovial fluid, mucus membranes, heart valves, several structures in the eye and blood vessels.

Glucosamine is one of the biological components that forms all the major cushioning substances of the joint fluids and surrounding tissues. Glucosamine and its associated macromolecules help to make the synovial fluid thick and elastic, in joints and vertebrae. Glucosamine stimulates production of among other things hyaluronic acid, resulting in the production of collagen and connective tissue.

Tissues in the joints can become damaged when these lubricating synovial fluids in the joint spaces become thin and watery.  Glucosamine may help increase the thickness of the gelatinous material, creating more support for the joints and vertebrae.

Glucosamine may decrease the potential to slow the deterioration of cartilage by stimulation of mucopolysaccharides and proteoglycans which build cartilage.

Other benefits of glucosamine are::
* inflammation of areas containing synovial fluids
* the breakdown of the synovial fluids
* tissues damage
* ligament damage
* muscle damage
* loss of elasticity in the vertebra discs
* inflammation of disc
* inflammation of sciatica nerve
* inflammation of joints associated with ageing.

Glucosamine is naturally found in high concentrations in joint structures, appears to be a great help with Osteoarthritic causes and symptoms. Glucosamine is selectively used by joint tissues by exerting a protective effect against joint destruction creating a powerful healing effect on conditions associated with arthritis.

 
Glucosamine is not an analgesic or an anti-inflammatory agent but has anti reactive properties. It is readily absorbed from the intestines, stays in the blood for several hours and very little is excreted. In contrast, conventional arthritis medications can cause relatively severe side effects. it is a long term nutritional treatment.

Glucosamine is a mucopolysaccharide which hydrates or lubricates articular tissue/joint tissue. It aids in regenerating damaged articular tissue. If there is insufficient glucosamine cartilage can't repair and pain as the joints rub together results.

Glucosamine HCI or Sulfate?
Glucosamine sulfate is effective but is not pure even when stated so. It is 74% glucosamine stabilised in potassium or sodium salt. If 1500mg is taken a day it causes 375-450mg of salt to the diet per day.

Glucosamine HCI is highly stable and 99% pure. It is not the same as N-acetyl glucosamine or glucosamine KCI
1500mg of glucosamine HCI is equivalent to 2608mg glucosamine sulfate.

Other sources of glucosamine is shark cartilage and chondroitin sulfate, though are larger molecules.

Many people die or are hospitalised due to painkillers and conventional medicines used for arthritis. People especially those allergic to conventional treatment may benefit from alternative treatments, though anybody who would like to try safe alternatives can try this. Glucosamine has no side effects. Other remedies to try is shark cartilage and devils claw.

 There is a mixture with all these in one capsule worth trying. It is in various countries but has just come into the New Zealand market September 1997. If you wish to know how to get hold of it, e-mail mgh@voyager.co.nz. If you live in another country please specify which country or go to the Healthshop. It has a whole range of glucosamine and combinations and other joint health products.

 Disclaimer: Any health related information is for educational purposes only. None of the information is to be construed as medical advice.Before applying any therapy, you should seek advice from your health care professional. This information should not be interpreted as a SUBSTITUTE for physician evaluation or treatment by a health care professional, and is not intended to provide or confirm a diagnosis.

 Order The Arthritis Cure Large section on glucosamine!