Written By: GreenMedInfo Research Group

A new clinical trial reveals the joint supplement glucosamine also acts as a prebiotic fiber, improving digestion, inflammation and microbiome balance to benefit whole-body health.

A recently published study in Nutrients reveals that taking glucosamine supplements may benefit gut health in multiple ways. In the double-blind trial, healthy adults took either 3000mg daily of glucosamine or a placebo for 3 weeks. Remarkable improvements were seen in measures of gastrointestinal function and the gut microbiome.[1]

Glucosamine recipients reported significantly less stomach bloating and trends towards less constipation compared to placebo. Benefits mirrored a previous 12-week study in arthritis patients taking glucosamine. This demonstrates this joint health supplement can also act as a prebiotic fiber nourishing intestinal bacteria.

Examining participants' fecal samples, bacterial diversity notably decreased with glucosamine supplementation. Specific inflammatory bacteria also declined. Lower microbial richness allows remaining commensal bacteria to thrive.

Additionally, glucosamine reduced fecal amino acid levels, indicating enhanced nutrient absorption. Less nitrogen excretion points to decreased inflammation as well.

Glucosamine is an amino sugar forming glycosaminoglycans like hyaluronic acid in connective tissues. Up to 90% escapes absorption, feeding gut microbes. Though not fully characterized, metabolites created influence immune-inflammation pathways beyond joints.

This rigorous clinical data confirms glucosamine's:

• Anti-inflammatory properties
• Prebiotic-like support of microbiome diversity
• Improved gastrointestinal function
• Increased nutrient absorption

Relieving joint issues, glucosamine also benefits the gut lining, potentially explaining reduced risks for cardiovascular disease, colorectal cancer and mortality seen in long-term users.

For those struggling with digestive woes, bloating and irregularity, glucosamine could provide an accessible and tolerable option. Its ability to shift the microbiome shows promise for correcting gut dysfunction underlying numerous modern diseases.

Alongside its well-known effects on joint cartilage, glucosamine emerges as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory biomolecule improving whole-body health. This expanded understanding broadens practical applications in preventive healthcare.

Glucosamine has additionally demonstrated wide-ranging therapeutic benefits with studies investigating its value in over 30 conditions including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, interstitial cystitis and even cancer. Consumers have ample science supporting glucosamine's use for diverse wellness goals.

References

Reference: [1] Moon JM, Finnegan P, Stecker RA, et al. Impact of Glucosamine Supplementation on Gut Health. Nutrients. 2021;13(7):2180.

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