New research is redefining how physicians perceive the popular supplement, Glucosamine. Over the years, the nutraceutical may rebuild cartilage in the sore joints. The latest findings are saying that Glucosamine is less potent than it was once believed.
In a recent clinical trial, researchers of the Tufts-New England Medical Center determined that only a diminutive portion of the supplement is actually absorbed in the body. The findings showed that the standard over-the-counter doses is not potent enough quell achy joints, hips and knees.
Despite the recent determinations, other medical experts contend that higher doses of Glucosamine may be effective. However, it poses the question of safety. Since, Glucosamine is a form of sugar that occurs naturally in the body, it’s theorized to play a part in building cartilage (spongy tissue that gradually breaks down in arthritic joints).
Over the year, the supplement glucosamine has been evaluated in numerous clinical trials. Overall, it outperformed placebo in relieving pain. Surprisingly, clinical experiments suggest that taking may repair any joint damage. This is deemed an advantageous to other osteoarthritis therapies. Numerous patients afflicted with joint pain have boasted about the supplements over prescribed medications. An emerging number of physicians have been recommending glucosamine as a daily alternative.
Prior to the latest findings regarding the supplement’s doses, other laboratory tests never tested the absorption rate of Glucosamine. The latest trial involved 18 participants who took Glucosamine (1,500 milligrams) for osteoarthritis. The tests showed that higher doses of glucosamine may not only fend off the symptoms associated with arthritis, but it could elevate the risk of diabetes. In the meantime, new evaluations will be studying how much glucosamine is safe and effective to take.
