Scientific Review Concludes Consuming Glucosamine Does Not Affect Glucose Metabolism

The authors found that the concentration of glucosamine in plasma is several orders of magnitude below what has been reported to impair glucose metabolism in vitro.

1/26/2011 --- A comprehensive review of oral glucosamine use and its effect on glucose metabolism in normal and diabetic individuals has been accepted for publication in an upcoming edition of Diabetes Metabolism Research and Reviews. The authors of the review, a team of experts in diabetes and glucose metabolism, concluded that consuming glucosamine as an oral supplement at typical levels does not adversely affect glucose metabolism.

The purpose of the review, commissioned by Cargill, was to investigate concerns that have been raised about glucosamine's purported effects on glucose tolerance in healthy people, and worsening of diabetes in the afflicted. The authors found that the concentration of glucosamine in plasma is several orders of magnitude below what has been reported to impair glucose metabolism in vitro.

"Cargill is committed to the safety of its products," said Mark Christiansen, Acidulants product line manager for Cargill Corn Milling North America. "We felt it was important to investigate the on-going concern of glucosamine consumption related to diabetes. This review indicates that, at normal consumption levels, consumers can safely use glucosamine."

Cargill's Regenasure glucosamine is the only U.S. – produced, Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) glucosamine commercially available which is also suitable for vegetarians and those with shellfish allergies.