Research from the University of Florida raises concerns over glucosamine, a supplement taken by many older adults for joint pain, and its potential role in accelerating Alzheimer’s disease progression. The study, published on June 9 in Nature Metabolism, indicates that individuals with mild cognitive impairment who used glucosamine were 25 percent more likely to develop dementia than non-users. Additionally, for those already diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or related dementias, glucosamine use was linked to a 25 percent increase in mortality risk.
A Neuropsychologist’s Perspective
Dr. Jessica McCarthy, specializing in dementia and neurodegenerative disorders, discussed the findings with Newsweek. She noted that the study supports the hypothesis that Alzheimer’s disease involves not only amyloid plaques and tau proteins but also metabolic dysfunction and inflammation. Glucosamine, she explained, could worsen metabolic pathways already overactive in Alzheimer’s patients.
“The brain requires an appropriate allocation of glucose for energy and maintenance,” McCarthy stated. “In Alzheimer’s, metabolic allocation issues may drive inflammation, worsening the disease.”
McCarthy expressed concern about people relying on over-the-counter supplements without understanding their potential interactions with other medications and conditions.
Understanding Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a popular dietary supplement in the U.S., often used by older adults for joint pain and cartilage support. Given its prevalent use among those at risk for Alzheimer’s disease, researchers sought to understand its effect on neurological decline. They analyzed patient health records from UF Health, collected between 2012 and 2024, focusing on individuals with Alzheimer’s and those with mild cognitive impairment.
The research team, including Yi Guo and Jiang Bian, studied 1,896 dementia patients and 2,750 with mild cognitive impairment, finding that glucosamine use was more common among those who progressed to dementia. Further studies on human brain tissue and mouse models suggested that glucosamine might exacerbate disrupted metabolic processes in the brain.
Reconsidering Glucosamine Use
The researchers note that their findings are observational and that clinical trials are necessary for confirmation. Nonetheless, their work adds evidence linking metabolic dysfunction to neurodegenerative diseases.
Dr. McCarthy emphasized, “Exercise, sleep quality, a Mediterranean diet, and prescribed medications are crucial for maintaining brain and metabolic health.”
She advises consulting medical professionals regarding supplement use. Maintaining an active and engaged brain, alongside good nutrition and rest, should serve as the primary defense for brain health.
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