Glucosamine

Glucosamine is an amino-sugar that is naturally produced in humans. It is the key building block in the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans, hyaluronic acid and proteoglycans. These substances are the foundation of many of the body's tissues, including tendons, ligaments, cartilage, collagen, basement membranes, mucous membranes of the digestive system, membranes in the respiratory tract and synovial fluid in the joints. Proteoglycans are proteins that make up the connective tissue of cartilage giving joints their elasticity, strength and resilience.

Tissues in the joints become damaged when lubricating synovial fluids in the joint spaces lose viscosity. The glucosamine normally synthesized may be insufficient in quantity for repair. With the loss of cushioning, degeneration of bones and cartilage begins, accompanied by reduced flexibility of the joint. Glucosamine supplementation helps to make the synovial fluid thick and elastic.