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Now Foods Glucosamine & Chondroitin with MSM by Now Foods
Now Foods Glucosamine & Chondroitin with MSM by Now Foods
 


Product Code: 142
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Description
 


What is glucosamine?
Glucosamine is a substance found naturally in healthy cartilage. It is an amino sugar and is a precursor in the synthesis of specialized fats and proteins used to repair cartilage and other tissues in the body. Glucosamine supplements are taken to support the structure and functionality of joints in the body and specifically to reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Glucosamine is most often sold as glucosamine sulfate, but is also available as glucosamine hydrochloride, and n-acetyl glucosamine. Although they are all forms of glucosamine, each has a different chemical makeup and may not have the same effects when taken as supplements.

Why is it necessary?
Osteoarthritis causes joint cartilage to lose its elasticity and become stiff which leads to joint discomfort, swelling, and loss of movement. Over time, the body decreases production of glucosamine. It is possible that incorporating daily glucosamine supplements may rectify and replace falling levels in the body and reduce osteoarthritis symptoms, although studies have yielded contradictory results.

One study published in the February 23, 2006, issue of the New England Journal of Medicine concluded glucosamine taken with chondroitin sulfate, an important structural component of cartilage providing a joint's resistance to compression, benefited those with moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis pain. However, another study published in the British Medical Journal in 2010 found glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and the combination of the two did not reduce joint pain.

Despite the debate about glucosamine, Dr. Talebi believes that there is sufficient evidence of efficacy to recommend that people with osteoarthritis try the supplement to see if they experience relief.

What are the signs of a deficiency?
People over the age of 50 are prone to developing joint, cartilage, and bone injuries as bone density gradually decreases. Stiff and aching joints are often the sign of osteoarthritis and X-rays are the best way to confirm this condition.

How much, and what kind, does an adult need?
There is no Daily Value recommendation, however, Dr. Talebi suggests 1,500 mg of glucosamine (in the form of glucosamine sulfate) daily for those with osteoarthritis.

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