The result is that cartilage loses its ability to act as a shock absorber. The weight bearing joints, like the knees, hips and joints of the hands are those most often affected. As the ability to manufacture glucosamine may be the major factor leading to osteoarthritis, then it follows that glucosamine s primary use would be to treat osteoarthritis. It is an amino sugar which the human body constructs from glucose. It begins the synthesis of several key macromolecules which form the various tissues.
Tissues perform a spectrum of essential functions.
Glucosamine also plays a vital role in the synthesis of enzymes and immune system molecules. The glucosamine in supplement form is derived from the fluid between the shell and flesh of a crab. Whilst it is used mainly to treat arthritis, tissue injuries and joint inflammation, it can also be beneficial in healing irritable bowel syndrome, food allergies, cystic fibrosis and skin disorders such as acne and psoriasis.