Dietary Supplement Case Study

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1. List the most common purported benefits related to use of this Dietary Supplement.
Glucosamine is an analog of glucose and is a building block for cartilage development. It is primarily used in osteoarthritis, joint pain and glaucoma.

2. Discuss potential risks associated with this dietary supplement.
Up to this point, glucosamine has not been linked with any major adverse effects. However, recent animal studies have raised questions as to the likelihood of raising blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. There have been suggestions that glucosamine may elevate cholesterol and blood pressure as well as worsen asthma and diabetic symptoms. However, in these reported adverse effects, its important to note that there is a lack of evidence
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Discuss possible dietary supplement - drug interactions.
As in the previous question response, there is a lack of strong evidence and studies to support the following information: glucosamine may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with antiplatelet and blood thinning medications such as aspirin, Plavix and warfarin. Glucosamine may elevate blood glucose levels which is very important in diabetic patients.

4. Discuss possible effects on nutrition/nutrient status or food intake.
The biggest concern with glucosamine in terms of diet is the amount of sugar a patient consumes while on this supplement due to reports that glucosamine can elevate blood glucose levels. Based on several studies, a patient should caution with the amount of potassium and vitamin c one consumes as glucosamine can affect the absorption of these elements.

5. Indicate any possible effects/impact of this dietary supplement on serum laboratory values.
Glucosamine can elevate blood glucose levels as well as blood pressure, LDL, HDL and overall total cholesterol levels. Glucosamine may elevate growth rate and toughness which may appear as hormone elevation levels on a lab report. Liver function, typically measured by LFTs have been reported to appear