N-Acetyl-D-Glucosamine (GlcNAc for short) is a derivative of glucose, naturally present in shrimp and crab shells, fungal cell walls, and human cartilage. Its core function is to participate in the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans (e.g., hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate) while supporting skin barrier repair, exerting effects by supplementing biosynthetic precursors. In joint health, it is a key component of proteoglycans in cartilage matrix—after oral absorption, it is transported to articular chondrocytes, promoting the synthesis of proteoglycans and collagen, repairing damaged cartilage, increasing cartilage elasticity, and inhibiting the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (enzymes that damage cartilage) to alleviate joint pain and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis. In skin care, it is a precursor for ceramide synthesis in the skin stratum corneum, enhancing the stratum corneum's water-retention capacity, repairing damaged skin barriers, and improving dryness, sensitivity, and skin problems caused by UV damage. Additionally, it has high safety (seafood-allergic individuals can choose fungus-sourced products), good oral absorption, and exhibits synergistic effects when combined with chondroitin sulfate or hyaluronic acid, making it a common natural active ingredient in joint health and skin care.
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