Glucosamine
A popular joint supplement — but the largest independent trial found no significant benefit over placebo for most people with knee osteoarthritis.
What the science says
- Knee osteoarthritis pain relief Limited evidence
The large NIH-funded GAIT trial found glucosamine (alone or with chondroitin) no better than placebo for knee osteoarthritis pain overall. A possible benefit appeared only in a subgroup with moderate-to-severe pain, and industry-funded trials report better results than independent ones.
- Slowing cartilage loss Limited evidence
Structural benefits (joint-space preservation) are inconsistent across trials and not established.
Dosage & safety
Studied dose1,500 mg/day of glucosamine sulfate (the form with the most positive data), often combined with chondroitin 1,200 mg/day.
SafetyWell tolerated. Derived from shellfish — caution with shellfish allergy. May slightly affect glucose metabolism; monitor if diabetic.
Scientific references
Where to buy
California Gold Nutrition, Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM Plus Hyaluronic Acid, 120 Veggie Caps
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Related in Joints & skin
- Curcumin (Turmeric extract) Moderate evidence
- Collagen Peptides Moderate evidence
- Biotin (Vitamin B7) Limited evidence
- MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) Limited evidence
- Chondroitin Sulfate Moderate evidence
- Hyaluronic Acid Limited evidence