The study conducted by researchers from the University of Florida and other U.S. institutions revealed concerning findings regarding glucosamine, a dietary supplement often used for joint pain. Among individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), which may precede dementia, glucosamine was linked to a 25% higher risk of progressing to dementia. Additionally, for patients already diagnosed with dementia, the supplement was associated with a 25% higher risk of death during the follow-up period.
The research, drawing from medical records collected between 2012 and 2024, focused on the biological process of glycosylation, which involves sugar molecules attaching to proteins. The study highlighted that in Alzheimer’s patients, this process occurs at unusually high levels, termed hyperglycosylation, and may actively contribute to disease progression. Through experiments on mice, it was found that glucosamine increased glycosylation levels and worsened cognitive function, suggesting a potential causal relationship.
Dr. Polina Spector stressed that the findings necessitate cautious interpretation, citing that the study was observational and that other underlying health conditions might explain the results. Additionally, some past research contradicted these findings, indicating a potential protective effect of glucosamine against dementia.
The researchers emphasized the need for further studies, including large-scale clinical trials, to investigate the implications of glucosamine on cognitive decline in dementia patients.
