A Common Joint Supplement Is Now Tied to Faster Dementia Progression - Are You at Risk?

Key Points:

• Recent research from the University of Florida links glucosamine use to faster cognitive decline in people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and a higher risk of death in those with established dementia.
• Analysis of over 50,000 patient records showed MCI patients taking glucosamine were 25% more likely to progress to full dementia, while dementia patients had a 25% higher mortality risk associated with glucosamine use.
• The supplement’s risk appears specific to those with cognitive impairment, as no increased mortality was found in MCI patients, and no cause for concern was noted for healthy adults.
• Glucosamine can cross the blood-brain barrier and may exacerbate abnormal sugar-tagging of proteins in Alzheimer’s brains, potentially contributing to disease progression.
• Researchers emphasize this is an observational association and recommend that patients with dementia or MCI consult their doctors before continuing glucosamine; controlled clinical trials are needed for confirmation.