Glucosamine is a naturally occurring substance in the body and a component of joint cartilage.
As a result, many people choose to take it as a dietary supplement, often together with chondroitin sulfate, in the hope of relieving pain caused by osteoarthritis, according to Health.
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, most studies have focused on osteoarthritis of the knee. However, the findings have been mixed.
Some studies have found no significant difference compared with a placebo, while others have reported modest improvements in certain patients.
Known risks
Glucosamine is generally considered safe for most people.
The most common side effects include headaches, nausea, and constipation, according to the Mayo Clinic.
In addition, a new study published in Nature Metabolism found an association between glucosamine use and faster cognitive decline in people with mild memory impairment.
However, the researchers emphasized that the study does not demonstrate that glucosamine is the cause. More research is therefore needed, Health reports.
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Use with caution
Dietary supplements are not regulated in the same way as medicines.
As a result, the contents and dosage may vary from one product to another, orthopedic surgeon Nathan K. Endres told Health.
The overall body of research also does not provide a clear answer as to how effective glucosamine is.
A 2022 meta-analysis published in Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery found modest improvements in some people with knee osteoarthritis, while other studies found no significant benefit.
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As a result, experts believe that some people may experience benefits from glucosamine, but the scientific evidence remains limited, according to Health.
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