When we are younger (and spryer) our bodies create ample quantities of the natural sugar glucosamine in order to help create new connective tissue and cartilage. Glucosamine is essential for strong healthy joints helping to help eliminate wear and tear and the joint pain and inflammation that is associated with it. However, as we get older, our bodies tend to produce less (starting at the age of 30) of this natural sugar leading to excessive wear of the joints and the onset of arthritis, osteoporosis and joint pain.

Athletes or people who engage in any type of repetive physical tasks tend suffer the most fro this decline in glucosamine production. Body Builders, runners, and even mechanics tend to suffer from excessive wear to their knees, shoulders, arms, hands and even fingers. Tendonitis, bursitis, and inflammation become painful infliction that threaten to curb anybody’s active lifestyle, no matter how activity or health conscience they happen to be.

Double Blind Placebo Studies have revealed that active men who took a multivitamin that included glucosamine show improvement in overall joint health. It was found to help boost joint tissue creation and to dull the pain of arthritis. Glucosamine sulfate in capsule for has been found to raise the amount of synovial fluid in the joints which helps lubricate and cushion the joint area preventing excessive wear and tear and allowing for greater flexibility. Supplementing with glucosamine sulfate has also been found to help reverse the effects of osteoporosis.

Where to get it

When your body is not making enough of it, the next best available source of glucosamine happens to be the shells of certain shellfish. However, since most people do not want to go through the tedious task of grinding up shells, supplements seems to be the next best option.  Usually, taking a multivitamin with added glucosamine is recommended for those over the age of 30, but you can start taking it sooner if you happen to be athletic.

There are adverse reactions caused by taking too much glucosamine, especially for people who have allergies to shellfish. High doses have also been linked to increased risk of Type 2 Diabetes and damage to the pancreas.

Be sure to talk with your doctor to determine exactly how much Glucosamine you need in order to maintain your active lifestyle.
SIX Nutrition, VItamins for Men