From the Research
Glucosamine supplements are unlikely to cause a significant increase in Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, and may even be associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, as suggested by the most recent and highest quality study 1. The potential effect of glucosamine on glucose metabolism has been a topic of interest, with some studies suggesting a possible link between glucosamine use and changes in blood glucose levels. However, the evidence is mixed, and the majority of studies have found no significant effect of glucosamine on HbA1c levels or glucose metabolism.
- A 2003 study found that glucosamine supplementation did not alter hemoglobin A1c concentrations in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus 2.
- A 2004 study found that glucosamine sulfate supplementation did not cause glucose intolerance in healthy adults 3.
- A 2007 study found that glucosamine ingestion may affect glucose levels in patients with untreated diabetes or glucose intolerance, but the effect was not significant in healthy individuals 4.
- A 2011 review found that glucosamine has no effect on fasting blood glucose levels, glucose metabolism, or insulin sensitivity at any oral dose level in healthy subjects, individuals with diabetes, or those with impaired glucose tolerance 5. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2020, found that glucosamine use was associated with a significantly lower risk of type 2 diabetes, particularly in individuals with higher levels of inflammation 1.
- This study analyzed data from over 400,000 participants in the UK Biobank and found that habitual glucosamine use was associated with a 17% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
- The study suggests that glucosamine may have a protective effect against type 2 diabetes, particularly in individuals with chronic inflammation. Overall, the evidence suggests that glucosamine supplements are unlikely to cause a significant increase in HbA1c levels, and may even be associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. Therefore, individuals taking glucosamine supplements should not be concerned about a significant impact on their HbA1c levels, but should still monitor their blood glucose levels regularly, especially if they have diabetes or are at risk for diabetes 1.