A new study published in Nature Metabolism has found a potential link between glucosamine, a popular supplement for joint pain, and an increased risk of dementia.

The $25 billion joint pain supplement industry's worrying trend

Glucosamine is one of the most widely used supplements for osteoarthritis, particularly among older adults. However, the latest study suggests that its widespread use may be contributing to a growing trend of dementia cases.

The study, led by researchers at the University of Florida, analyzed health records from 2012 to 2024 and found that around 8% of patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia were taking glucosamine.

An echo of Sydney's 2024 institutional buy-up

The study's findings are reminiscent of a 2024 study that linked institutional buying of Alzheimer's disease treatments to a 25% increase in risk of dementia.. While the current study does not prove causality, it does raise important clinical questions about the potential impact of glucosamine on brain health.

Researchers found that glucosamine can cross into the brain and feed into a pathway that adds sugar molecules to proteins. This pathway appears to be overactive in Alzheimer's disease, potentially damaging brain cells.

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The study's lead researcher, Dr. Ramon Sun, warned that many people actively take an over-the-counter supplement that could be making their disease progression worse. The study's fidings add to growing evidence that metabolism plays a key role in Alzheimer's disease.

While the study's results are concerning, experts stress that the findings do not prove the supplement causes dementia. However, the study does suggest that further research is needed to confirm whether glucosamine has a direct impact on brain health.

Who is the unnamed buyer?

The study's findigns have sparked concerns about the potential impact of glucosamine on brain health. However, the study's lead researcher, Dr. Matt Gentry, emphasized that the study shows only a link, not cause and effect .

The study's results are based on observational data and cannot prove that the supplement directly accelerates dementia. However , the study does raise important clinical questions about the potential impact of glucosamine on brain health.