N-Acetyl glucosamine

Tier 2 — promising · Gut barrier · IBD · Joint

A building block of the gut mucus layer that protects the intestinal lining. Different from regular glucosamine used for joints. Small trials in IBD showed improved gut barrier integrity. Also plays a role in joint cartilage maintenance. Generally very safe with no serious side effects reported. Larger RCTs are still needed.

Dose: 500–1,500 mg/day; different from glucosamine sulfate used for joint pain