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Glucosamine Chondroitin Complex

The body manufactures glucosamine, a simple molecule composed of glucose and an amine (nitrogen and two molecules of hydrogen). Glucosamine is an important building block needed by the body to manufacture specialised molecules called glycosaminoglycans, found in cartilage. Glucosamine also promotes the incorporation of sulphur into cartilage. Glucosamine is almost exclusively researched and used for the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA).

Detailed human studies on the absorption, distribution, and elimination of orally administered glucosamine sulphate show an absorption rate as high as 98%. Once absorbed, it is taken up by the joint tissues, where it is incorporated into the connective tissue matrix of cartilage, ligaments, and tendons.

Sulphur is an essential nutrient for joint tissue, with research from the 1930s showing that arthritic individuals are commonly deficient in this mineral. The restoration of sulphur levels in these patients has been shown to bring about significant benefit.

Viridian uses glucosamine sulphate 2KCL which stands for 2 x molecules of Potassium (K) chloride (Cl), this is the preferred form rather than sodium chloride - thus eliminating any potential hypertensive effect.

GLUCOSAMINE SULPHATE

CHONDROITIN SULPHATE

Chondroitin sulphate consists of repeating chains of molecules called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and is a major constituent of cartilage, providing structure, holding water and nutrients, and allowing other molecules to move through cartilage-an important property, as there is no blood supply to cartilage.

MAGNESIUM ASCORBATE

Vitamin C plays an important role in joint integrity due to its requirement in collagen production. Magnesium ascorbate is a buffered form of vitamin C.

VIRIDIAN GREEN FOOD BLEND (Wheat grass, bilberry fruit, barley grass, alfalfa)

Provides a potent mix of organic superfoods known for their abundance of synergistic nutrients including; trace minerals, antioxidants, enzymes, and other useful phytonutrients. This formula acts as a natural excipient providing additional nutritional value and aiding the absorption and delivery of the product.

Dosage

In the capsulated/powdered form (free from excipients), the improved uptake allows for a lower dose of 300mg of glucosamine/chondroitin to be taken, one to three times daily (or as required). For obese individuals up to 20mg of glucosamine per kg of body weight is suggested. Up to 2000mg /day of glucosamine have been used in studies.

Potential applications

Osteoarthritis - repair and healing resulting in relief of pain and inflammation, disorders of tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Chondroitin has shown some benefit in the following conditions; kidney stone formation, snoring, atherosclerosis, hypercholesterolemia, and other vascular disorders.

Known contraindications

Manufactured glucosamine is synthetically derived from shellfish. Those with known chronic allergies should consult their physician. At the amount most frequently taken by adults-500 mg three times per day of glucosamine sulphate-adverse effects have been limited to mild reversible gastrointestinal side effects.

Interactions

Research has raised the possibility that glucosamine could contribute to insulin resistance. This effect might theoretically result from the ability of glucosamine to interfere with an enzyme needed to regulate blood sugar levels. However, available evidence does not suggest that taking glucosamine supplements will trigger or aggravate insulin resistance or high blood sugar. Those with peptic ulcers and individuals taking diuretic drugs may be more likely to experience gastrointestinal side effects with glucosamine or chondroitin.

Use in conjunction with

  • Osteoarthritis - multi-phytonutrient complex, flax seed oil, boswellia, green food blend / malic acid (to reduce systemic acidity). Dietary - increase water intake, reduce animal fats, and increase plant foods. Regular exercise and flexibility movements. Achieving appropriate body mass index (BMI) will reduce the risk of OA.

References

© Cheryl Thallon at Viridian

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