glocosamine

Glucosamine is an amino sugar used to create glycosaminoglycans and synovial fluid that keep the joints cushioned and well lubricated. It is important for the maintenance of the structure and function of cartilage in the joints of the body.

References:
D’Ambrosio E., Casa B., Bompani R., Scali G., Scali M., Glucosamine Sulphate: A Controlled Clinical Investigation in Arthrosis, Pharmatherapeutica, 1981; 2(8): 504-8.
GNC Healthnotes: www.gnc.com
McCarthy M.F., Enhanced synovial production of hyaluronic acid may explain rapid clinical response to high-dose glucosamine in osteoarthritis, Med Hypotheses. 1998 Jun; 50 (6): 507-10.
Newnham R.E., Essentiality of boron for healthy bones and joints, Environ Health Perspect. 1994 Nov; 102 Suppl 7: 83-5.
Persiani S., Roda E., Rovati L.C., Locatelli M., Giacovelli G., Roda A., Glucosamine oral bioavailability and plasma pharmacokinetics after increasing doses of crystalline glucosamine sulphate in man, Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2005 Dec; 13 (12): 1041-9. Epub 2005 Sep 13.
Reavley N., The New Encyclopedia of Vitamins, Minerals, Supplements and Herbs, Bookman Press, Melbourne, 1998.
Ruane R., Griffiths P., Glucosamine therapy compared to ibuprofen for joint pain, Br J Community Nurs. 2002 mar; 7 (3): 148-52.
Vidal Y., Plana R.R., Karzel K., Glucosamine: its value for the metabolism of articular cartilage. 1. Biochemistry of proteoglycans, studies on in-vitro cultures of embryonal mouse fibroblasts and bone germs, Fortschr Med. 1980 Apr 17; 98 (15): 557-62.

Cautions:
Seek professional health advice if pregnant, lactating, suffering from a medical condition, taking medication, experiencing seafood allergies, or a child before supplementing. In rare cases, glucosamine may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.