Glucosamine is produced naturally from glucose and the amino acid glutamine. Glucosamine is necessary to produce glycoaminoglycans, molecules that are critical for the manufacture of cartilage and other tissue in the body. Natural production of glucosamine slows with age, and supplementation is often beneficial for maintaining healthy and mobile joints. Some evidence suggests that glucosamine might actually slow the progression of cartilage degeneration (most commonly associated with osteoarthritis) and thereby prevent progressive joint damage. Nutralife Glucosamine as Glucosamine HCl uses the first scientifically developed glucosamine, and is 100% vegetarian.