Glucosamine supplements are used for joint support and to treat ailments such as arthritis - their use is well documented.
There are two types of glucosamine available - sulphate and hydrochloride. Is one better than the other?
The delivery vehicle
Sulphate and hydrocholride are just the delivery vehicle in which we absorb it - the glucosamine element is the active ingredient we are looking for.
Sulphate
- Glucosamine sulphate needs to be stabilised with sodium chloride (salt) or potassium chloride
- Can contain up to 30% salt if stabalised with sodium chloride
- Glucosamine 2KCL does not contain salt
- Sourced from shellfish
- Typically contains around 75% glucosamine
Hydrochloride
- A more concentrated form of glucosamine than sulphate
- Far lower in salt than sulphate
- More naturally stable than sulphate
- Doesn't require added salt
- Doesn't require preservatives
- Sourced from vegetables
- Typically contains around 83% glucosamine
Is one better than the other?
Glucosamine sulphate is the 'original' form and most research has been done on this because historically it has been more available. Glucosamine hydrocholride is relatively new but trials have shown it to be equally effective. As long as the glucosamine is bioavaliable the body doesn't care how it gets it.
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- Maximum allowable levels of base glucosamine
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A healthy balanced diet is the best way to consume all the nutrients we need. Sometimes however this isn't possible and then supplements can help. This article isn't intended to replace medical advice. Please consult your healthcare professional before trying any supplements or herbal medicines.