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Glucosamine
What is glucosamine? Glucosamine is a natural amino sugar found in the human body. Simply put, it is a type of sugar (more precisely, a derivative of glucose) in which one of the usual oxygen groups has been replaced by an amino group (–NH₂). This special type of sugar is an important building block for connective tissue, cartilage and joint fluid.. Glucosamine is therefore an endogenous substance, which is found primarily in the joints and supporting tissue, where it plays a central role in their health and function.
How is glucosamine produced in the body?
The body produces glucosamine itself: glucosamine is formed from glucose (a simple sugar) and the amino acid glutamine in several intermediate steps. During this process, an amino group is transferred from glutamine to a sugar molecule, producing glucosamine-6-phosphate, which is then further processed into glucosamine.
What are the functions of glucosamine?
Glucosamine is an important building block for glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), which are long chains of sugar molecules that, together with proteins, form the extracellular matrix (the ‘scaffolding’ between cells). This matrix is particularly important in cartilage, tendons, ligaments and joint fluid, where it plays a crucial role in the elasticity, stability and lubrication of the joints.
- Building block for cartilage and joint fluid: Glucosamine is necessary for building and repairing cartilage tissue.
- Regulator of cartilage synthesis: It controls the formation of cartilage components and thus helps to keep cartilage healthy.
- Pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory: Studies show that glucosamine can reduce pain associated with joint wear (osteoarthritis) and inhibit inflammation.
Glucosamine in nutrition and as a dietary supplement
Glucosamine is also known as Food supplement offered, mostly in the form of glucosamine sulphate, glucosamine hydrochloride or N-acetylglucosamine. These preparations are often used to Support for joint problems, especially osteoarthritis. The doses in dietary supplements are usually lower than in medicines (less than 1250 mg per day).
Effect and benefits of glucosamine supplements
Taking glucosamine can improve mobility, relieve pain and slow down cartilage degradation in cases of joint wear. Better results are often seen when combined with chondroitin sulphate, another cartilage component.
Recent research suggests that glucosamine can also influence metabolism: it simulates a type of low-carbohydrate diet that is considered beneficial to health by slowing down sugar breakdown in cells and causing the body to use more amino acids for energy. This could have long-term positive effects on life expectancy and metabolism.
Possible risks and side effects
Glucosamine is considered to be well tolerated and has few side effects.. Nevertheless, there are a few important points to note:
- Blood sugar: People with diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance should monitor their blood sugar levels, as glucosamine can affect glucose metabolism.
- Blood coagulation: Glucosamine can inhibit blood coagulation. Anyone taking coumarin-type blood-thinning medication should only use glucosamine after consulting their doctor.
- Allergies: Glucosamine is often produced from the shells of crustaceans. People with shellfish allergies should therefore pay attention to the origin and choose products with appropriate labelling.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is insufficient data on safety for pregnant women, breastfeeding women, children and adolescents, therefore use is not recommended.
Forms of glucosamine
Glucosamine is available in various chemical forms, which can differ in their effects and absorption:
| Form | Description | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Glucosamine sulphate | Glucosamine with a sulphate group, crystalline or non-crystalline | Most common form in dietary supplements and medicines |
| Glucosamine hydrochloride | Glucosamine with a hydrochloride group | Also used in preparations |
| N-Acetylglucosamin | Acetylated form, also occurs naturally | Less important in preparations |
Summary
Glucosamine is an active ingredient from the amino sugar group, which is produced from the chemical compound of glucose. In the body, this substance is important for maintaining cartilage and connective tissue. In the joints, glucosamine is found in the cartilage and in the synovial fluid. As a dietary supplement, glucosamine can be used to relieve pain in mild to moderate osteoarthritis. As mentioned above, it is a substance that occurs naturally in the body and should therefore be well tolerated.
