This is one of a number of substance classified as an amino sugar. Unlike other forms of sugar in the body, amino sugars are components of carbohydrates that are incorporated into the structure of body tissues, rather than being used as a source of energy. Glucosamine is thus involved in the formation of the nails, tendons, skin, eyes, bones, ligaments, and heart valves. It also plays a role in the mucous secretions of the digestive, respiratory, and urinary tracts.

Glucosamine is made in the body from the simple carbohydrate glucose and the amino acid glutamine. It is also availabel as a supplement, in the form of glucosamine sulfate. GlucosaMend from Source Naturals, Glucosamine Plus from Food Science Laboratories, and Glucosamine Sulfate Complex from PhytoPharmica are some recommended products. Supplemental glucosamine can be helpful for asthma, bursitis, candidiasis, food allergies, osteoporosis, respiratory allergies, tendinitis, vaginitis, and various skin problems. A related compound is N-acetylglucosamine (NAG), available as N-A-G from Source Naturals.

GlucosaMend by Source Naturals

N-A-G by Source Naturals, 250 mg

N-A-G by Source Naturals, 500 mg

Glucosamine Plus by Food Science Laboratories

Glucosamine Sulfate by Food Science Laboratories

Glucosamine Sulfate Complex by PhytoPharmica

MoonDragon's Health Information: Nutrition Basics: Amino Acids: Glutamine

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MoonDragon's Health Information: Nutrition Basics: Natural Food Supplements Index

MoonDragon's Nutrition Information Index

MoonDragon's Health Information: Nutrition Basics Index

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