Glucosamine – what it is, which form to choose and how to take it

Glucosamine is one of the most searched-for food supplements. In this guide we explain simply and honestly what glucosamine is, which forms are available, how it is usually taken and what EU food safety rules say about it. We also show which nutrients have an officially approved role for joints, bones and muscles.

What is glucosamine?

Glucosamine is an amino sugar that the body produces itself. It is found naturally in cartilage and joint fluid, where it is one of the building blocks of glycosaminoglycans and proteoglycans. In food supplements glucosamine is usually used as glucosamine sulphate or glucosamine hydrochloride. It is traditionally made from shellfish shells, but there is also glucosamine of plant origin, which also suits people who do not eat shellfish.

Glucosamine sulphate or hydrochloride – what is the difference?

• Glucosamine sulphate is the form used most in studies. Check on the label how much pure glucosamine one serving contains.
• Glucosamine hydrochloride contains more glucosamine per gram, but it has been studied less.
• Origin: if you are allergic to shellfish or prefer a plant-based product, choose plant-based glucosamine.

How is glucosamine usually taken?

• Always follow the recommended daily dose on the package and do not exceed it.
• Glucosamine is often taken with a meal to avoid possible stomach upset.
• In studies glucosamine has usually been used over several weeks or months, not as a one-off.
• Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

What does the EU say about glucosamine?

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has assessed health claims related to glucosamine, but no health claim for glucosamine is authorised in the EU. That is why we do not promise any effects of glucosamine that have not been officially approved. Glucosamine is an ingredient of food supplements, not a medicine, and it must not be used to prevent or treat diseases.

Nutrients with an approved role for joints, bones and muscles

If you want to look after your bones, cartilage and muscles, several nutrients have an authorised EU health claim:

• Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of cartilage and bones.
• Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and normal muscle function.
• Calcium is needed for the maintenance of normal bones.
• Magnesium contributes to normal muscle function.
• Manganese contributes to the normal formation of connective tissue.

In the Puhdas+ range you will find these nutrients in the Joints, muscles and bones category, as well as our vitamin C, vitamin D and magnesium selection.

Who should be careful?

• If you have a shellfish allergy, make sure to choose glucosamine of plant origin.
• If you take blood-thinning medication, have diabetes or another health condition, talk to a doctor or pharmacist before use.
• During pregnancy and breastfeeding, consult a doctor before using food supplements.

Frequently asked questions

Is glucosamine a medicine?

No. Glucosamine is an ingredient of food supplements. A food supplement is not intended to prevent or treat diseases.

Is plant-based glucosamine as good as glucosamine from shellfish?

Chemically it is the same substance. The plant-based form also suits people with a shellfish allergy and those who prefer plant-based products.

Can glucosamine be taken together with vitamin C?

Yes, they are often used together. Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of cartilage.

This article is for information only and does not replace medical advice. Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.