Glucosamine supplements: Can they worsen gout symptoms?

My husband takes glucosamine supplements for his gout. But I'm wondering if glucosamine, which contains shellfish, may actually worsen gout symptoms?

- No name / No state given

Answer

Taking glucosamine should have no adverse effect on gout.

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by deposits of uric acid crystals in a joint. Uric acid is formed from the breakdown of purines, substances found naturally in your body and certain foods, especially shellfish, anchovies, mackerel and beef liver and other organ meats. Some studies suggest that eating large amounts of protein may increase uric acid levels in the blood, increasing the risk of an attack of gout.

Glucosamine is made synthetically or from the outer shells (exoskeletons) of shellfish — not the shellfish meat. Because glucosamine doesn't contain purines or proteins, it shouldn't increase uric acid levels. However, there's also no good evidence that glucosamine helps prevent or treat gout.

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