Glucosamine is a simple molecule composed of glucose and an amine. The main effect of Glucosamine on joints is to stimulate the manufacture of glycosaminoglycans, which are key structural components of cartilage. Some people lose the ability to produce sufficient levels of Glucosamine; this means that the cartilage loses its shock-absorbing gel-like nature, resulting in bone destruction.
Scientific research on the benefits of using Glucosamine supplements in the treatment of Osteoarthritis showed that:
� Glucosamine was more effective than a placebo in improving pain and movement after only four weeks of use.
� The severity and rate of side effects from taking Glucosamine did not differ from taking a placebo.
� A clinical study by doctors resulted in a total of 95% of patients achieving benefit from using Glucosamine.
A summary of the clinical data suggests that Glucosamine not only relieves the symptoms of osteoarthritis but also helps the body repair damaged joints. The longer Glucosamine is used the more obvious the therapeutic benefits.
The other structural protein needed for the production of cartilage is Chondroitin. Studies on Chondroitin sulphate have shown that it can stimulate the production of collagen, inhibit the enzymes that destroy cartilage as well as neutralising free radicals that produce inflammation and pain.
Thompson's Glucosamine and Chondroitin is a high potency supplement that supplies therapeutic doses of nutrients that can help relieve the symptoms of arthritis, and also initiate the repair of damaged or eroded joint tissue.