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Glucosamine Studies - how effective is it?
Introduction There have been many glucosamine studies, and with good reason. Glucosamine and MSM are among the most widely used and available supplements for runners seeking solutions for cartilage and joint repair, and with good reason. How do glucosamine supplements work? Glucosamine helps form Chrondroitin, and scientific studies suggest that glucosamine stimulates the growth of cartilage cells. Aside from literal "wear and tear" caused by exercise and training, 30 million Americans suffer from osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease - glucosamine and related supplements may be a key tool in combating the disabling effects of degenerative joint diseases.
There have been many glucosamine studies. In 1999, the American College of Rheumatology found that glucosamine reduced symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee. However, glucosamine is not a great pain reliever. It did not significantly reduce the pain of arthritis sufferers already suffering from osteoarthritis. It seems that glucosamine is most effective in a preventative and maintenance role. From a personal perspective this makes sense. When my knees were severely damaged the only way to avoid joint pain was by enforced inactivity: as little walking and standing as possible, no stairs, and no weight bearing exercises. (That's where swimming as a form a cross training really shines!) As my knees healed and physiotherapy strengthened the supporting muscles running was again possible. Glucosamine is now a key preventative measure I use to help knees and other cartilage maintain and repair itself. It's most effective before major damage occurs!Glucosamine is often combined with MSM, a naturally occurring sulfur. MSM is found in many foods including fruits, vegetables, meats and raw milk. Unfortunately, MSM is destroyed by heating. Glucosamine studies indicate MSM levels decline with age, and low levels of MSM have been associated with organ, tissue diseases and muscular fatigue. Since the effects of glucosamine and MSM are similar they are often combined in one capsule. Chondroitin Glucosamine Supplement Chondroitin sulfate is the third ingredient often found the glucosamine supplements. Chrondroitin's effect if very similar to glucosamine, but the glucosamine molecule is much smaller and is more easily absorbed by the body. Glucosamine helps rebuild cartilage while chrondroitin is thought to have a complementary anti inflammatory effect. Chrondroitin helps reduce the swelling of inflamed joints. Glucosamine and Back Pain While runners such as myself have enjoyed glucosamine's effects on knee and other active use joints many people investigate glucosamine as part of a treatment to relieve back pain.The problem with back pain is that it's associated with many injuries and diseases. Lower back pain can develop as a result of exercise, particularly weight bearing activities like running. It may be muscular in origin - caused by less than perfect bio-mechanics (for instance, one leg shorter than the other). One the other hand, back pain can be associated with degenerative or damages spinal discs. Timely and ongoing medical diagnosis is a critical component in treating back pain. Having said that, the healing effects of glucosamine and related supplements often gives back pain sufferers a measure of relief. Sciatica, piriformis syndrome, and hip pains all may be helped by glucosamine. Again, in all cases of hip and back pain medical diagnosis should also be sought. Side effects: glucosamine sulfate Glucosamine studies have shown there is a very low occurrence of even mild glucosamine chondroitin side effects. Glucosamine side effects can include allergic reactions. Glucosamine may be made from crabs, lobsters or other shellfish. Glucosamine may also decrease the production of insulin in diabetics, making diabetes harder to control. Warfarin and anticoagulant users should either avoid glucosamine or have doctor monitor their blood clotting capabilities on an ongoing basis. Antiplatelet users should avoid glucosamine unless prescribed by a doctor. WN PharmaceuticalsŪ Ltd. manufactures the Webber Naturals line of supplements and they have excellent product information and background on glucosamine studies. Buy Quality As with supplements in general, there is no effective protective legislation in North America. Many supplement manufactures source their raw materials from China. Their ultimate product purity may be at risk. Your best strategy is to buy glucosamine from well know manufactures who have a reputation for quality in the marketplace. Conclusion Glucosamine, chondroitin and related supplements have proven themselves effective for many people. Try these supplements for a three for four month period and decide for yourself. Naturally, your doctor should be aware so she or he can offer additional advice and counsel.
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