, Nutritionist
La glucosamine is an amino monosaccharide. It is a normal constituent of glycosaminoglycans and proteoglycans present in the synovial fluid and in the cartilage matrix. Let's find out better.
What is glucosamine used for
That's the point of departure for the synthesis of many important macromolecules, such as glycoproteins, glycolipids and mucopolysaccharides. These macromolecules are components of numerous tissues in the digestive and respiratory tract, in some structures of the eye, in the blood, heart valves as well as, largely, in the synovial fluid, tendons, ligaments and joints.
It is used for the biosynthesis of hyaluronic acid, synovial fluid and proteoglycans of the fundamental substance of articular cartilage.
The sulphate ions of glucosamine sulphate, the sulphate derivative of glucosamine, are essential for controlling the rate of synthesis of glycosamine glycans and proteoglycans and contribute to the inhibition of enzymes that degrade cartilage. A glucosamine deficiency o of its metabolism can reduce the degree of production of these important macromolecules leading to a weakness of specific tissues. Even in the event of trauma, the cartilage metabolism can undergo modifications; in this situation, the exogenous supply of glucosamine compensates for the endogenous deficiencies of the substance, stimulates the basis of biosynthesis, stimulates the biosynthesis of proteoglycans, carries out a trophic action against joint cartilage and favors the fixation of sulfur in the synthesis of glucosaminoglycans and proteoglycans. All these actions have favorable effects on the degenerative processes of the cartilages that are the basis of OA.
The exogenous contribution allows to use the direct synthesis pathway of proteoglycans which requires a lower energy expenditure, compared to the metabolic pathway of glucose.
Glucosamine among the natural remedies for osteoarthritis
Where is glucosamine found
In el country glucosamine is generally extracted from crustaceans and is present in the form of glucosamine phosphate in tablets and sachets for oral use and in intramuscular vials. It works synergistically with chondroitin sulfate, fish oil, vitamin C and manganese.
The dosage of 1500 mg / day has proved useful for reduce pain and improve joint function in patients with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis. Glucosamine is generally well tolerated, possible side effects are mild gastrointestinal disturbances and skin reactions.
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The properties and benefits of glycosan, a compound of glucosamine
