Glucosamine sulfate supplementation in patients with knee pain has been Selleckchem PXD101 reported to improve joint pain and function [24]. For example, Pavelka and colleagues [25] evaluated the effects of 3-years of glucosamine sulfate supplementation on progressive joint degeneration and symptoms associated with knee OA. Results indicated that markers of knee pain, physical function, and joints stiffness were improved. Similarly, Usha and coworkers [26] studied the efficacy and safety of combinations of glucosamine and methlysulfonylmethane (MSM) supplementation in patients with knee OA. The researchers found that supplementation with glucosamine

and MSM reduced joint pain and swelling, while improving the physical function of the joints [26]. These findings and others indicate that glucosamine, chondroitin, NVP-HSP990 manufacturer and/or MSM supplementation may have some therapeutic benefits for OA patients. For this reason, AZD9291 dietary supplementation of glucosamine, chondroitin, and/or MSM has been recommended particularly for active individuals [5, 27–29]. Theoretically, glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM supplementation may provide additive benefits to individuals with knee OA initiating

an exercise and weight loss program. The purpose of this study was 1) to determine whether sedentary obese women with knee OA initiating an exercise and weight loss program will experience more favorable changes in body composition, functional status, and/or markers of health when following a higher protein diet compared to a higher carbohydrate-based diet; 2) to determine whether dietary supplementation of glucosamine, chondroitin, and Ureohydrolase MSM during a weight loss

and exercise program lessens symptoms of pain, improves functional capacity, and/or promotes greater health benefits in women with knee OA; and, 3) to determine whether there are any additive benefits of combining these strategies. It was hypothesized that all participants would experience beneficial changes in body mass, body composition, functional status, and markers of health. However, greater benefits would be observed in those following a higher protein diet with glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM supplementation. Methods Experimental design The study was conducted as a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel clinical trial conducted in a university research setting. Participants with physician diagnosed OA participated in the Curves® (Curves International, Waco, TX) fitness and weight management program for 14-weeks [30]. This program was selected because it offers higher carbohydrate and higher protein diets; incorporates circuit-style resistance training as the primary exercise modality; it has been found to be effective in promoting weight loss and improving markers of health and fitness in sedentary obese women [20–23]; it offers a joint support supplement containing GCM to its members; and, the program is widely available.