Discussion Board

Hi Jeff,

We met this past weekend at the Advanced Study Weekend and I remember either you or Dr. John talking about glucosamine but neither of you finished the thought. After this weekend, I realize that all supplements may be detrimental to our health by causing imbalances in our bodies.

My question is that other than glucosamine, I take nothing. My old bones just ache like mad when I stop taking the glucosamine, which I have done since last week. I'm not very familiar with what those supplements contain, but wonder if I'm injuring my health or if it's OK to continue these to help with the symptoms? I am 60 years of age, by the way.

Thanks for your help and all of your wisdom this past weekend. You're the best. And, I want to be added to the list you had in your pocket.

Sue

Hi Sue

It was a great weekend and I enjoyed meeting everyone! And, thanks for your kind words!

It was Dr Mcd who mentioned Glucosamine in his supplement talk. As he mentioned, glucosamine is in a seperate category from the other vitamins and minerals he was discussing, as it is used therapeutically and has some evidence supporting its use. His general comments were in regard to all the other vitamins and mineral supplements that most people take, as there is little if any evidence for them and the best way to get them is through a healthy diet. The only exception mentioned was Vit B12 for vegans.

If you are finding the glucosamine is helping you, then by all means, continue to take it. It is one of the few that has almost no known side effects except on occasion, someone is allergic to it. If you want, you can post or PM me the brand and the amount you are taking and I can give you my comments on that also.

Thanks again, and you are now on the list!!

In Health
Jeff Novick, MS, RD

Jeff I wa considering taking glucosomine some years ago. The pharmacist asked me if I had an allergy to shellfish. When I said yes, she then told me I couldn't/shouldn't takes glucosomine as it is derived from shellfish.

I cleaned up my vegen diet, started walking more and the aches disappeared.

SueZQuilter my bones are even older than yours. Now if I start aching, I think about what I have ingested over the preceding days.

A secret list!!! Is this the vegan equivilant of Sherlock Holmes?

Glucosamine is usually derived from shellfish, so if someone is allergic to shellfish it may be a problem. However, if someone is allergic to shellfish, or is a vegan, there is a product on the market derived from corn, which is made by Deva. But, this form was not used in any of the studies and may yield different results.

A healthy vegan diet has been shown to be beneficial in arthritis and help decrease/eliminate pain, if followed correctly as it can be anti-inflammatory so this is also an important consideration.

To find out about the "list", you have to come to a McDougall Program or Weekend.

In Health
Jeff Novick, MS, RD

I think Dr McD also said to take ONLY Glucosamine supplements, and NOT the ones that contain chondroitin, correct? I had to look long and hard to find some without the chondroitin.

Also, ANYTIME I slip and eat even a spec of dairy, I pay for it dearly the next day with body aches and pains. It is rare I eat it intentionally; usually I discover I ate in something someone served or that I ordered in a restaurant.

Casey

There is no known benefit to including the chondroiton in the supplement.

In Health
Jeff Novick, MS, RD

Jeff it is a long way from Australia for just a weekend. However if I win lotto, you will be one of my first big spends.

How about coming here instead. Even as far a Singapore would be a help!

Thank you Jeff, that definitely clarifies the issue. I'll start taking the glucosamine supplements again, at least until the pains subside due to my continued McD diet.

I will also email you separately to give you the brand and mgs.

Have a great day! And, I feel honored to be among those on the list.

Oh my, I almost forgot to thank Susie. You are so right about getting the proper nutrients and exercise...I know both will help my old bones immensely.

My current problem is that I have just began working 10 hour days and I'm gone from home 13 hours each day. It's been grueling getting used to the new schedule and I'm just beat when I get home. I'm getting up at 4:30 in the morning, I get home around 6 pm and I just can't get myself adjusted to add in exercise on top of everything else. BUT, never fear, I'm working on it. I'm trying to walk more stairs at work, get out and get some walking during the day at lunchtime...I know those things will work to my benefit.

Thanks again and everyone have a wonderful day.