[at-l] glucosamine and chondroit

[thornel at attglobal.net (W F Thorneloe)]

Jim Bullard reacts that Quackwatch isn't balanced and
that anecdotal evidence of benefit with Glucosamine is
valuable.

Actually, Glucosamine has been studied fairly
thoroughly. It is associated with improvement in
function at dosages of 1500 mg daily for those with
certain types of arthritis. Pain is infrequently
improved. Chondroitin is associated with additional
cost without additional benefit. There is theoretical,
 but no clinical reports of risk with reduction of
insulin receptor sensitivity.

There is significant placebo effect associated with
Glucosamine and most medications/supplements.

Where quackery is involved is the marketing of
glucosamine. One can find it for very high prices and
for quite inexpensive prices. One can find significant
variations in actual dosages and contaminants. One can
find a variety of claims of this chemical's effects on
health.

OrangeBug