GLUCOSAMINE CHONDROITIN SIDE EFFECTS AND BENEFITS
Glucosamine is a natural compound that is manufactured by our body. It is an amino sugar, meaning that is a sugar but it is also an amino acid. It can be found between the joints of our body and the synovial fluid. Glucosamine functions by connecting cartilage and repairing cartilage when it has been damaged by harmful enzymes or degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis.
Some experts believe that glucosamine is good supplemental treatment for many illnesses. Glucosamine has been used to reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis and other types of arthritis. It is also used as a treatment for glaucoma, as well as an aid to losing weight. Many people that suffer from glaucoma have been treated by glucosamine but, it is mostly used as a natural supplement for arthritic people. The supplements are derived from shellfish such as lobster and shrimp.
Many people have shown great improvement with their arthritis after taking it but it is still not approved as an arthritis treatment so it is still called a dietary supplement. Glucosamine is natural but that does not mean glucosamine is safe to be use by all people. Glucosamine and chondroitin may have side effects. The following glucosamine side effects are commonly experienced by people who take glucosamine supplements:
- Sensitivity to the sun
- Drowsiness
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Difficulty in sleeping or insomnia
- Upset stomach
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Flatulence
- Headaches
Glucosamine chondroitin side effects are similar to the above listed glucosamine side effects. There were some reports of people taking glucosamine who experienced palpitations, increase heart rate and blood pressure. These side effects are rare, but can be severe.
Not all people should take glucosamine. These are the following people that are warned to avoid taking glucosamine:
People with blood clotting issues: If you have a history of bleeding, you should stay away from glucosamine. If you are taking medications for blood clotting, you should also not take glucosamine because it might interact with those medications. If you really want to take glucosamine, make sure you are supervised by a medical practitioner.
People that are allergic to sea foods: Glucosamine supplements that you can purchase in food stores and at drug stores are made from the shells of seafood. If you are allergic to seafood of shellfish, it would be safer to just avoid glucosamine, even if it is only the shells of seafood are used to make the supplements.
Diabetic people: Since glucosamine is an amino sugar, the sugar content of it may increase the blood sugar of diabetic people. So, it is recommended that people with diabetes not to take glucosamine.
Asthmatic people: Glucosamine might provoke asthma flare ups, as some people with asthma have reported that they had asthma attacks after they took glucosamine.
Women who are breastfeeding and pregnant: It would be safer and better if women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding could avoid using glucosamine.