READ MORE: Landmark reports expose a dementia care system failing patientsSee more Daily Mail on Google - save us as a Preferred SourceBy MARTI STELLING, HEALTH REPORTER Published: 10:28 BST, 9 June 2026 | Updated: 10:53 BST, 9 June 2026
A joint pain supplement taken by millions of Britons may be linked to an increased risk of dementia, a major new study suggests.Researchers in the US found that glucosamine - commonly used to ease joint aches and pains - was associated with a 25 per cent higher risk of progressing from mild memory problems to Alzheimer's disease.The study, led by scientists at the University of Florida, also found the supplement was linked to a 25 per cent increase in risk of death among patients already living with dementia.However, experts stress the findings do not prove the supplement causes dementia.'A lot of these people actively take an over-the-counter supplement that could be making their disease progression worse,' said lead researcher Dr Ramon Sun.Glucosamine is a naturally occurring amino sugar that serves as a building block for the cartilage and connective tissues in the body. It is one of the most popular supplements for osteoarthritis, particularly among older adults. Because of its widespread use, researchers investigated whether it could influence Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.The team analysed health records from 2012 to 2024, using artificial intelligence to identify patients with either mild cognitive impairment (MCI) - an early stage of memory decline - or dementia. They found that around 8 per cent of patients were taking glucosamine. Glucosamine is a popular supplement taken to support joint health, help maintain cartilage and alleviate symptoms associated with osteoarthritis
