glucosamine Safety

Glucosamine safety is important, especially, since glucosamine can be made from the shells of shrimp, crab, and other shellfish, so people with shellfish allergy or iodine hypersensitivity may have an allergic reaction to glucosamine products. However, some research suggests that there is not enough shrimp allergen in glucosamine supplements to trigger reactions in patients who are allergic to shrimp.

Nevertheless, caution is warranted and glucosamine safety guidelines should be heeded. A serious hypersensitivity reaction including throat swelling has been reported with glucosamine sulfate. There are reported cases suggesting a link between glucosamine/chondroitin products and asthma exacerbations.

glucosamine safety: Side Effects and Warnings

In most human studies, glucosamine sulfate has been well tolerated for 30 to 90 days.

Side effects may include upset stomach, drowsiness, insomnia, headache, skin reactions, sun sensitivity, and nail toughening. There are rare reports of abdominal pain, loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea, flatulence (gas), constipation, heartburn, and diarrhea.

Based on several human cases, temporary increases in blood pressure and heart rate, as well as palpitations, may occur with glucosamine/chondroitin products. Based on animal research, glucosamine theoretically may increase the risk for eye cataract formation.

glucosamine safety and blood effects

It remains unclear if glucosamine alters blood sugar levels. Several human studies suggest that glucosamine taken by mouth has no effects on blood sugar, while other research reports mixed effects on insulin. When glucosamine is injected, it appears to cause insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction.

Preliminary studies show no effect on mean hemoglobin A1c concentrations in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Caution is advised in patients with diabetes or hypoglycemia and in those taking drugs, herbs, or supplements that affect blood sugar. Serum glucose levels may need to be monitored by a healthcare provider and medication adjustments may be necessary.

glucosamine safety and risks

In theory glucosamine may increase the risk of bleeding. Caution is advised in patients with bleeding disorders or taking drugs that may increase the risk of bleeding. Dosing adjustments may be necessary.

In several human cases, abnormally high amounts of protein were found in the urine of patients receiving glucosamine / chondroitin products. The clinical meaning of this is unclear. Glucosamine is removed from the body mainly in the urine, and elimination of glucosamine from the body is delayed in people with reduced kidney function.

Acute interstitial nephritis, a condition that causes the kidneys to become swollen and possibly dysfunctional, has been reported in a patient taking glucosamine. Increased blood levels of creatine phosphokinase may occur with glucosamine/chondroitin, which may be due to impurities in some products. This may alter certain laboratory tests measured by healthcare providers.

Early data suggest that glucosamine may modulate the immune system, although the clinical relevance of this is not clear.

One patient developed liver inflammation (acute cholestatic hepatitis) after taking glucosamine forte.

glucosamine safety: Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Glucosamine is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to lack of scientific evidence.

Nutrients for Joint Health

Step 1. Establish a Nutritional Foundation:

VIBE® - 1-2 ounces daily - split between AM/PM
Liquid multi-nutrient delivery technology that provides critical essential nutrients and cofactors needed for the body to thrive. VIBE provides outstanding daily nutritional support and contains specialized nutrients to manage the aging process.*

Step 2. Focus on joint health Goals:

Flex® (Glucosamine + others) - 1-2 scoops daily - split between AM/PM
Contains powerful ingredients shown to support cartilage and connective tissue health, joint mobility, and address the discomfort associated with a lifetime of activity.* Generous amounts of Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM, Vitamin C, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B6, and Type II Collagen promote healthy joint structure and fluidity, while Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract specifically addresses joint discomfort.*

EFACOR™ - (Omega-3s) - 2-4 softgels daily - 10 min. before a meal
Concentrated, pharmaceutical grade, natural Omega-3 dietary supplement providing high dose EPA and DHA. EFACOR is guaranteed ultra-pure, free of environmental contaminants and to have exceptional taste.*

JointZyme® - 2-3 caps daily - on an empty stomach
JointZyme™ is a nutritional enzyme support formula designed to promote healthy joints and a healthy response to body inflammation. The nutritional components have been selected based upon clinical research which demonstrates their effectiveness. Its synergistic enzymatic combination and potent concentration have created a powerful nutritional support formula for joint health.*

Vitamin C - 1 TBSP daily - split between AM/PM
Stabilized Vitamin C utilizes a proprietary Aqueous Stabilization™ process in combination with metabolites derived by natural extraction. This exclusive combination ensures premium delivery to the body for support of the body´s many vital immune functions.*

The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Please, consult your health care provider before taking over the counter or prescription drugs, nutritional supplements, or following any health treatment or regimen. The above product(s) is not a substiture for a well balanced diet.

* This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.