Synflex Glucosamine Information

Physical injury, obesity and aging are common problems associated with Osteoarthritis. These problems contribute to cartilage deterioration. In most cases, analgesics, such as ibuprofen, are recommended to control osteoarthritis. Studies show glucosamine sulphate to provide relief caused by arthritis without common side effects caused by other drug therapies.

Currently, European countries use glucosamine sulphate in a prescription form to fight osteoarthritis.

What is Glucosamine Sulphate?

Synflex Glucosamine is sugar and protein mixture found naturally in cartilage joints and connective tissues. Scientific studies containing glucosamine usually refer to a formula of glucosamine sulphate which is usually sold as a common combination with Chondroitin Sulphate. Chondroitin is located in and around cartilage cells. It has been suggested that the supplement repairs some of the existing damage in the joint.

Osteoarthritis is believed to cause destruction of cartilage due to the loss of collagen and proteoglycans. It is believed that glucosamine repairs damage that cartilage already has because it is essential to produce proteins. These proteins are vital building blocks to produce cartilage. With collagen, a fibrous protein used to produce connective tissue, and proteins combines, the strength and support of your joints improve. Water is pulled in the cartilage by glucosamine to produce a gel filled sac that cushions the joint. This leads to the belief that supplementing will magnify existing glucosamine in the body.

Supplements are made of animal tissue (crab, lobster or shrimp shells) or chemically produced to be sold. Glucosamine hydrochloride, glucosamine sulphate and N-actyl-glucosamine are common commercial compounds. The usual forms are found as a capsule or tablet.

Show me the evidence!

A study published in the medical journal Lancet in 2001 shows glucosamine to effectively control osteoarthritis and produce reversal of the disease process. In 2003, scientists studied effects that were reported in 15 studies using glucosamine with or without chondroitin on knee related osteoarthritis. Treatments with glucosamine with or without chondroitin were shown to be effective.

All of these glucosamine studies in arthritis of the hip or knee note that:

• After starting a Synflex glucosamine treatment, reduced symptoms will occur in a few weeks
• Benefits will continue for weeks or months after stopping glucosamine treatments
• No reports show that continuing its use will reduce the impact or efficiency of glucosamine

How will it benefit athletes experiencing joint injuries?

British Journal Sport Medicine published a study in 2003 giving patients with regular pain of the knee a twelve week supply of glucosamine (2000mg/day). Results suggested a glucosamine supplement be used to provide pain relief and increase mobility in patients dealing with chronic pain on a regular basis. About 90% of the glucosamine using group reported less pain.

Side effects and cautions:

• There are few side effects reported on the internet or in books. Side effects reported are skin rash, diarrhea, headaches and dizziness. There are no known long-term side effects.
• People with allergies to shellfish chitin should be cautious as glucosamine is extracted there.
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women along with children should not use glucosamine because side effects are unknown.
• Ask your doctor before taking and product for your health.

Summary

• Always understand research regarding a product with its effectiveness.
• Athletes should remember that use of glucosamine is based both on first hand experience and media reports.