Chewable Glucosamine

For someone plagued by osteoarthritis, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the joints, having to take a daily supplement can be burdensome; chewable glucosamine can help reduce this burden significantly. The discovery of and marketing of chewable glucosamine is as much a blessing as the pot at the end of a rainbow. For patients suffering from what seems like a lifetime of pain and stiffness, the small things that take away everyday agony and pain are what count. These include small gestures that make life easier.

When the pain and stiffness of osteoarthritis set in, sometimes the idea of swallowing a daily pill three times a day can become too much. But, for daily osteoarthritis sufferers, this “chore” and obligation to take tablets is often necessary to keep osteoarthritis pain at bay.

Alternatives To Tablet Glucosamine

Fortunately, thanks to modern invention, there are now many alternatives to pill pooping. Glucosamine now comes in many forms other than tablets and capsules. For some time liquid glucosamine and powder glucosamine were the glucosamine of choice for individuals that did not want to pop pills or capsules. But now chewable glucosamine is also an option for people that do not want to pop a mouthful of capsules.

Chewable glucosamine is an excellent choice for gum lovers. There are many studies both short-term and long-term that support the symptomatic relief of OA using glucosamine. These studies are comparable to studies that support the treatment of OA using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents or NSAIDs. Studies comparing ibuprofen to glucosamine show that glucosamine out-performed ibuprofen with regard to pain control. In these studies glucosamine was administered in doses of 1,500 when hydrochloride was given, and 1,200 when glucosamine sulfate was administered to study participants.

Chewable Glucosamine Side Effects

Chewable glucosamine has relatively few side effects, other than the potential for nausea which may be combatted by eating something before chewing, or by drinking some juice or water. It is important to note that it may be possible to overdose on glucosamine. The recommended daily allowance is 1,200 to 1,500 mg each day. Be careful not to exceed the recommended daily allowance to reduce the likelihood of side effects.

The benefits of chewable glucosamine may be enhanced by other agents, including the possible addition of chondroitin or MSM which also help to reduce pain, inflammation and stiffness.

References:
Deal CL; Moskowitz, RW. Nutraceuticals as therapeutic agents in osteoarthritis. The role of glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and collagen hydrolysate. Rheum Dis Clin North Am. 1999 May; 25(2). 379-95.

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