Should I supplement glucosamine if my joints are used too hard? How to choose between oral and topical gel
Help cartilage production? What is glucosamine
Glucosamine is an amino acid monosaccharide molecule and one of the components of cartilage matrix and synovial fluid in the human body. The body consumes glucosamine to synthesize “GAG” glycosaminoglycans, which in turn produce hyaluronic acid, chondroitin and other important components needed by joints.
Some research literature shows that glucosamine helps cartilage formation, promotes chondroitin formation, helps normalize joint metabolism and improve joint mobility. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Glucosamine is a component that the human body can produce on its own. Most of it is found in cartilage tissue and has the function of regenerating itself. However, the body’s synovial fluid is in a dynamic balance between “synthesis” and “wear”. When the amount of synthesis decreases, the amount of wear increases, and the concentration of glucosamine in the joints is insufficient, the lubrication function of the joint fluid may be affected.
Will sitting for a long time cause wear and tear? Who is prone to glucosamine deficiency?
The main function of glucosamine is to help synthesize various components needed by joints. Activities with high frequency of joint use and heavy loads, such as brisk walking, mountain climbing, power walking, or squatting and standing for long periods of time, will increase the frequency of joint wear and increase the loss rate of lubricating fluid in the joint cavity.
Groups prone to joint problems include the elderly, women who run for a long time, often wear high heels, and those who have suffered trauma to their joints, or have a lifestyle that requires frequent weight-bearing or walking up and down stairs due to work or occupation. Glucosamine in cartilage is depleted. and wear will increase accordingly.
What is the difference between oral and external use? What types of glucosamine are there?
Oral glucosamine is divided into three types based on the manufacturing process: sulfate, hydrochloride, and N-acetylglucosamine (salt-free). Among them, sulfate glucosamine is listed as pharmaceutical grade. Glucosamine without salt or hydrochloride is food grade. The main difference lies in the solubility of the base used during manufacture, which is also related to the gastrointestinal absorption rate after ingestion.
Glucosamine is also available in the form of topical gel. This type of ingredient is mainly high-concentration GAG glycosaminoglycans that can help lubrication. It comes from New Zealand green-sided mussels. Can be applied directly to the joints where needed. Due to the combination of peppermint, capsaicin and other plant essential oils, they can have complementary effects and help to instantly cool down and relax.
Wiping is more effective? How to choose topical glucosamine
Generally speaking, the first consideration for oral glucosamine is sulfate. However, today’s food-grade glucosamine will be added with various active ingredients, such as cat’s claw, hyaluronic acid, and type II collagen, to help reduce inflammation or lubricate. When choosing, you should consult professional doctors and pharmacists based on your own situation.
For glucosamine topical gel, it is recommended to choose a “compound” with added essential oils. The improvement effect will be better than that of a single formula. Shellfish is the preferred source of ingredient extraction. The main active ingredients are more diverse, so it is better to choose GAG with a high concentration. In addition, it is recommended to choose a formula with relevant supporting research. The additional ingredients and research results of different glucosamine are different, so you should consult a pharmacist for advice when selecting.
Further reading:
There are many myths about protecting joints! Is glucosamine effective only if it is “rubbed”?
