A large University of Florida study published in Nature Metabolism found that glucosamine — one of the most popular joint supplements among older adults — is associated with a 25% higher likelihood of progressing from mild cognitive impairment to full Alzheimer's disease. Researchers analyzed over a decade of patient health records using AI, then examined human brain tissue and mouse models to uncover a potential biological mechanism. They found a protein-and-sugar-tagging metabolic pathway is overactive in Alzheimer's brains, and glucosamine may amplify this dysfunction. Glucosamine users already diagnosed with dementia also showed a 25% higher mortality risk. While the study does not prove causation and clinical trials are needed, the findings carry immediate practical weight for the millions of older adults currently taking this supplement.
