Glucosamine & Chondroitin Complex

Glucosamine sulfate is an amino sugar necessary for the construction of connective tissue. It is a component of the mucopolysaccharides, which are integral in the formation of nails, tendons, skin, bone, ligaments, eyes, heart valves, and other body tissues. Glucosamine is a major building block of proteoglycans (molecules that are essential for healthy cartilage, because they attract and hold many times their weight in water, which both lubricates and nourishes the cartilage). Studies have shown that there is a direct relationship between the amount of glucosamine present and the amount of proteoglycans produced; when glucosamine levels are high more proteoglycans are produced which means that more water will be held in its proper place. There also seems to be a direct correlation in reverse; if only small amounts of glucosamine are available then few proteoglycans will be produced which means less of the all important water will be held in that area. When cartilage is damaged, and these water attracting molecules (proteoglycans) are lost, it loses its ability to absorb shock, and becomes more susceptible to cracking, fissuring, and possibly even wearing through completely. Glucosamine has also been shown to play an important role in the production of collagen. In addition, glucosamine normalizes cartilage metabolism, which helps to keep the cartilage from breaking down. Studies have shown that glucosamine may do more than stimulate the production of cartilage; it may actually help reduce pain and improve joint function in those with osteoarthritis. And it doesn't seem to matter if it comes from the glucosamine manufactured by our bodies or from a supplement: it all seems towork the same.