Glucosamine is useful in the body to aid in the manufacture glycosaminoglycans, which are specialised molecules found in the cartilage. Glucosamine, an amino sugar is produced naturally in humans and is a key substrate used in the synthesis of macromelcules which comprise connective tissue.It is involved in the synthesis of components of cartilage

Glucosamine is not available in significant quantities in most diets and supplemental glucosamine is derived from the shells of crustaceans such as shrimp, lobster and crab. It can also be synthesised.
It provides a useful building block for the repair and syntesis of tendons.

• Glucosamine is supportive for the joints and tendons.
• Benefit from the use of glucosamine may not appear until after 2 months of treatment.
• Chondroitin sulphate is a major constituent of cartilage,and it provides structure and support within cartilage, by holding nutrients and water and allowing molecular movement through cartilage, as blood supply in cartilage is limited or non existant.
• Chondroitin sulphate may be reduced in joints subject to damage, which makes extra supplementation a useful support for the structural system.
• Glucosamine is available in tablet, capsule, liquid and cream forms.
• Caution should be exercised on the use of glucosamine in diabetics