Glucosamine: What You Should Know

What glucosamine does and why it's used:

• Glucosamine is a naturally occurring sugar that helps form and maintain cartilage, the tissue that cushions joints and supports smooth movement.
• Levels of glucosamine may decline with age, which is linked with gradual wear-and-tear in joints and stiffness.
• Supplementing with glucosamine sulphate is a common approach to support joint cartilage health, mobility and relief from mild osteoarthritis symptoms.
• Lifestyle habits like low-impact exercise and physiotherapy are also recommended alongside supplementation to help maintain joint function.

If you've noticed a little less spring in your step, it could be time to think about your glucosamine levels.

Getting older brings a myriad of life changes, some which are welcome (hello freedom and more time to do what you like) and others less so (grey hairs, anyone?). For some, getting older could mean the onset of joint stiffness, due to a decline in glucosamine levels in the body.

Glucosamine is a sugar which is naturally produced in the body. It helps the health of your cartilage, which is the tissue that cushions your joints and protects the end of your bones, so they can move together smoothly. As you get older, your glucosamine levels drop, which can lead to the gradual breakdown of the joints and the onset of osteoarthritis.

How to get your glucosamine up

So, what can you do to support your glucosamine levels and keep your joints running smoothly? It can be challenging to get glucosamine from foods however, you can consider taking a glucosamine supplement, such as Swisse Ultiboost Glucosamine Sulphate, to maintain joint health and help relieve symptoms associated with mild osteoarthritis of the knee.

Along with your regular supplement, you can try the below lifestyle habits, to help maintain your joint health and keep you active:

• Regular, low-impact exercise, such as walking or swimming. The low-impact nature of the exercise will help to minimise weight and force through your joints, and exercise has the added benefit of supporting your health generally.
• Physiotherapy with a qualified practitioner can help manage discomfort and assist joint function.

This medicine may not be right for you. Read the label before purchase. If symptoms worsen or change unexpectedly, talk to your healthcare professional. Follow the directions for use. Nutritional supplements may only be of assistance when dietary intake is inadequate.