Research from the University of Florida suggests that a commonly used supplement, glucosamine, may hasten the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. The study, published in Nature Metabolism, reveals that those with mild cognitive impairment taking glucosamine were 25% more likely to develop dementia compared to non-users. Additionally, glucosamine use correlated with a 25% increased risk of death among Alzheimer’s patients.
A Neuropsychologist’s Perspective
Dr. Jessica McCarthy, a neuropsychologist in New Jersey, shared insights with Newsweek on the findings. She emphasized the complexity of Alzheimer’s, involving more than amyloid plaques and tau proteins. Metabolic dysfunction and inflammation also play roles. McCarthy noted glucosamine’s potential to exacerbate a disrupted metabolic pathway, increasing risks for those with mild cognitive impairment and those already diagnosed.
“Because glucosamine crosses the blood brain barrier, it may worsen an already overactive metabolic pathway, facilitating a heightened risk of disease progression in people with mild cognitive impairment and mortality in people already diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.” – Dr. Jessica McCarthy
She also cautioned against indiscriminate supplement use without considering interactions with existing conditions and medications.
What Is Glucosamine?
Glucosamine, prevalent among older adults, is touted for joint pain relief and cartilage support. The University of Florida’s study aimed to assess its influence on neurological decline. By analyzing health records with artificial intelligence, researchers examined patients with Alzheimer’s and mild cognitive impairment.
Collaborators Yi Guo and Jiang Bian identified over 1,800 patients with dementia and 2,750 with mild cognitive impairment using glucosamine. They found glucosamine users with mild cognitive impairment had higher odds of developing dementia. Advanced imaging and animal studies suggested glucosamine’s interaction with disrupted brain metabolic processes in Alzheimer’s patients. However, the increased mortality risk was noted only in those with an existing dementia diagnosis.
Guidance for Glucosamine Users
Researchers recognize that these findings are observational, requiring further clinical trials. However, the study adds evidence linking metabolic dysfunction to neurodegenerative diseases.
“Exercising with moderate intensity at least three or four times a week with a focus on building muscle mass, getting adequate sleep, and implementing a Mediterranean diet can go a long way in maintaining overall health and staving off neurodegenerative processes.” – Dr. Jessica McCarthy
McCarthy advises consulting with a medical team before starting supplements and highlights the importance of cognitive stimulation, intellectual engagement, and social interaction for brain health.