[at-l] Glucosamine/knee problems

[Pat Dreyer <pdreyer@icon.co.za>]

This topic was discussed last year and following Saunterer's comments and 
information, I put my geriatric dogs onto a Glucosamine/chondroitin 
combination - at great expense.  After 7 weeks, from being unable to pull 
herself to standing, the 14 1/2 yr old was chasing squirrels and is still 
doing so.    All the three ancients I have now enjoy a far better quality 
of life.

Saunterer also included reports from the AMA and American Pharmaceutical 
Assoc who now recognise that there ARE benefits.   Perhaps he still has the 
articles?

My pharmacist has a great demand for glucosamine from humans with joint 
problems who find it most beneficial.  What I use now consists of 
Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Calcium Carbonate, Vitamin C and Manganese 
Sulphate - no chondroitin - and is much cheaper.

To quote from the insert:
"Glucosamine is a naturally occurring, non-toxic biochemical 
constituent.  It is a key component of the cartilage and synovial fluid, 
both of which provide a protective coatint to the ends of the bones in the 
body, where they meet at the joints.  As we age, the body's natural ability 
to restore and repair joint damage declines due to the reduction of an 
amino sugar called glucosamine.  Glucosamine is formed naturally in the 
body from glucose and glutamic acid, both of which are derived from dietary 
sources."

Klipspringer has completed the sections he missed out in '97 and should be 
finishing his repeat of the 100 mile wilderness tomorrow, in company with 
Sweet Pea and Ned, who he met at that time.

His "American Saga" is nearly at an end.....

Pat
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