Galactosamine

/ɡəˌlæktɔˈseɪmɪn/ noun

Definition

A type of amino sugar derived from galactose, commonly found in cartilage and connective tissue where it helps build glycosaminoglycans.

Etymology

From 'galactose' (milk sugar) + 'amine' (organic compound containing nitrogen), a biochemical term for this modified sugar.

Kelly Says

Your cartilage and the slippery material between your joints contain galactosamine, which is why people take glucosamine supplements (a similar compound) hoping to reduce arthritis pain—these sugars are literally the building blocks of your flexible tissues.

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