Naturally, the body produces glucosamine for maintain joint health bone. However, production glucosamine may decrease with age. Currently artificial glucosamine has been found in the form of supplements. Manufacturers claim glucosamine supplements can treat arthritis (arthritis). Is that right?
The glucosamine found in supplements is made from shellfish or bacterial fermentation of grains. Before discussing the efficacy of glucosamine supplements, let's first discuss arthritis.
Treating Arthritis with Glucosamine
Arthritis is a condition that can cause inflammation and pain in the joints. This condition is divided into two namely osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Osteoarthritis (OA)Osteorarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions joints breaks down. This can cause pain and stiffness, making it harder for you to move around than usual. This condition usually occurs in the joints of the hands, knees, spine, or hips.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)Rheumatoid arthritis is different from OA. RA is an autoimmune disease that can attack any joint in the body. The disease can even affect other organs, such as the eyes, liver, or lungs. RA can make joints painful, swollen, stiff, and lose their function.
Actually, the efficacy of glucosamine in overcoming arthritis is still debated. Because, there are some people who feel the benefits, but there are also the opposite.
However, you can try this supplement if you have OA. According to some studies, glucosamine may be able to treat mild to moderate OA problems. Taking this supplement for two or three months is said to help relieve arthritis symptoms.
If your condition improves after taking this supplement, you can continue taking it. But if there is no improvement, stop using it and consult a doctor.
For patients with RA, so far there has been no research that states that glucosamine supplements can overcome this condition. Further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of glucosamine supplements in treating RA.
Warning sBefore Taking Glucosamine
In healthy adults, glucosamine supplements are safe to take in the short term. Make sure you take glucosamine according to the dosage listed on the product packaging, or as recommended by your doctor. Even so, there are still side effects that may occur after taking glucosamine, such as stomach pain, headache, drowsiness, or heartburn.
Some people should exercise caution or consult a doctor before taking this supplement. For example, those who have an allergy to shellfish. Consuming glucosamine derived from shellfish can cause an allergic reaction.
People with high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, bleeding disorders, heart disease, as well as pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers are advised to consult a doctor if they want to take glucosamine supplements.