Glucosamine Supplement Benefits
Glucosamine
Rating:*****
Category: Recovery
Explanation: Glucosamine is the major building block of both solid parts of
cartilage (proteoglycans and collagen).
Bodybuilding Benefit: Glucosamine levels in cartilage cells determine whether
or not repair happens in joints. Glucosamine also helps reduce joint pain and
tenderness. Bodybuilders are hard on their joints and Glucosamine helps to keep
them healthy to keep hitting the heavy weights.
Dosage: 1500- 2000 mg per day; half in the morning, half in the evening.
What is Glucosamine?
Glucosamine is an important building block of joint cartilage. Supplemental shells
of of shrimp, lobster and crab. Glucosamine is often paired in supplement form
with chondroitin, part of a large protein molecule responsible for cartilage
elasticity. The two common types available commercially are glucosamine sulfate
and glucosamine hydrochloride.
Health Benefits
Glucosamine supplements are believed to play an important role in lubricating the
joints, increasing joint mobility and slowing or preventing the deterioration of joint
cartilage. Studies show that people suffering from osteoarthritis experience relief
of joint pain and improvement of symptoms. It is also thought that glucosamine
may fight inflammation, encourage new cartilage to be built, and inhibit the
production of enzymes that destroy cartilage, however more studies are needed.
Though research looks very promising, the long-term safety and effectiveness of
glucosamine supplements have not been established.
Glucosamine Sulfate or Glucosamine Hydrochloride?
To keep glucosamine molecules stabilized and prevent deterioration before
consumption, manufacturers often attach glucosamine to another molecule:
sulfate (glucosamine sulfate) or chloride (glucosamine hydrochloride). There is no
scientific proof to date that one is superior to the other, though glucosamine
sulfate may cause stomach upset in certain individuals. There is no evidence that
the body absorbs either type differently.
produces glucosamine regularly throughout life; however as one ages the
amount of glucosamine created by the body becomes less and less. This causes
cartilage to amount of glucosamine created by the body becomes less and less.
This causes cartilage to become less flexible. Aches and pains in weight-bearing
joints can increase, leading to limited movement and freedom. Because that can
be ingested by regularly eating any certain food in particular. Those looking to
increase their levels of glucosamine for cartilage health and function generally
partake of glucosamine supplements.
partake of glucosamine supplements.
Glucosamine supplements are derived from a substance found in shellfish such
as crab, shrimp and lobster- which is why those allergic to shellfish are advised
against taking glucosamine. Chitin, (pronounced: kite-in) the ingredient that
makes up a large part of a shellfish’s shell from which glucosamine is derived, is
processed to remove the calcium carbonate and proteins. These substances are
then run through the process of hydrolysis to yield glucosamine.
Who should use glucosamine? Generally, the supplement is intended for those
who are looking to increase their joint function and heath or those with mild to
moderate osteoarthritis. (Of course, no supplement should be taken without first
consulting a doctor, especially in the case of diabetics, pregnant or lactating
women.) The supplement must be given time to incorporate into the cartilage.
Therefore, results will not be noticeable right away. Benefits can be expected in
at least 1-3 months.
Because glucosamine works so well, there are many brands and many types of
glucosamine on the market. In fact, choosing a supplement can be an
overwhelming task. However, with a few guidelines in mind, the ability to choose
a supplement that is just right for the user can become easier.
In choosing a glucosamine supplement, pay close attention to:
The amount of glucosamine per daily dose- this should be at least 1500 mg per
day.The quality of the ingredients- there are many companies who are merely
jumping on the glucosamine bandwagon who use low grade ingredients in their
supplements. Look for companies that use NAG (N-acetyl-glucosamine), an
expensive of form of glucosamine that is superior to other forms of glucosamine
found on the market such as glucosamine sulfate and glucosamine
hydrochloride.
Adverse affects to glucosamine have been reported as mild with no real severe
reactions- even to those with shellfish allergies. Of the affects reported, mild
bouts of stomach upset, such as nausea and vomiting or diarrhea have occurred
as have mild rashes, drowsiness, headache and insomnia.
Marion Harris chief researcher and editor for Pathways-Health invites you to visit
their site to learn more about taking a holistic approach to [http://www.pathways-
health.com]health and wellness. And to discover the benefits of Flex Protex ® an
all natural joint supplement with glucosamine for improved joint health.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marion_Harris
Articles on the Bodybuilding supplement: Glucosamine