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A recent headline caught my attention: “Simple sugar compound improves function in multiple sclerosis patients, a UCI study shows.”

At first glance, it almost sounds too good to be true. Sugar? Helping MS?

Before anyone reaches for the candy jar, let’s take a closer look at what this study is actually saying. The compound in question is not the sugar we associate with desserts. It’s called N-acetylglucosamine, and researchers at the University of California, Irvine believe it may offer some promising benefits for MS.

Let’s break it all down and see what it really means for you.

What Is N-acetylglucosamine?

N-acetylglucosamine, often shortened to GlcNAc, is a compound derived from glucose. That’s why headlines refer to it as a sugar. But it’s not the kind found in fruit or candy, and it doesn’t act like the sugars your body uses for energy.

GlcNAc plays a structural role in the body and is found in small amounts in shellfish like shrimp, crab, and lobster. It’s also available as a dietary supplement.

Is It the Same as NAC or Glucosamine?

Because of its name, GlcNAc is often confused with other supplements. Let’s clear up the differences.

NAC, short for N-acetylcysteine, is known for supporting respiratory health and boosting antioxidant levels, particularly glutathione. It’s popular in the MS community for its potential to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

Glucosamine, commonly found in joint supplements, typically appears as glucosamine sulfate or glucosamine hydrochloride. These are not the same as N-acetylglucosamine, though they are related. GlcNAc has different functions and is not used interchangeably with these joint formulas.

Why Is GlcNAc Getting Attention for MS?

According to researchers at UC Irvine, GlcNAc may do three important things:

• Reduce inflammation in the brain
• Support repair and regrowth of the myelin sheath
• Improve neurological function

This is significant because many current MS treatments do not cross the blood-brain barrier or directly promote myelin repair.

The Study: What You Should Know

The study involved MS patients who were already on glatiramer acetate, also known as Copaxone. Participants received either 6 grams or 12 grams of GlcNAc daily for four weeks. This was an open-label trial, meaning both the researchers and participants knew what treatment was being given.

Results showed that about 30 percent of participants experienced improved clinical function. Researchers also observed reductions in inflammation beyond what glatiramer acetate alone provided.

The supplement used came in powdered sachets from Wellesley Therapeutics. The study was peer-reviewed and funded by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

Promising but Not Perfect

While the early results are hopeful, there are limitations.

• The study only measured inflammation through blood samples, not brain imaging
• It was a short trial with only 4 weeks of supplementation
• It was unblinded, which introduces the possibility of bias

Two Important Cautions

1. A Patent Has Been Filed
The researchers applied for a patent on this use of GlcNAc. That means they have a financial interest in its success, which should be taken into consideration. This does not discredit the findings, but it’s important to be aware of.

If granted, the patent would give the researchers or their institution exclusive rights to the use or sale of GlcNAc for MS in the way described. This could affect pricing and access if a specific formulation comes to market.

2. The Study Was Unblinded
Since both researchers and participants knew who received the treatment, the results could be influenced by expectations or placebo effects. In clinical research, blinded studies are preferred to reduce bias.

The placebo effect is real. Participants may report improvement simply because they believe they are receiving treatment. This is why future studies need to be blinded and possibly include imaging to assess direct effects on the brain.

So What Does It All Mean?

This study adds to the growing list of potential treatments being explored for MS. GlcNAc shows early signs of reducing inflammation and improving function, but more research is needed to confirm its role.

It’s important not to rush into taking any supplement without guidance. Always talk to your doctor before making changes to your health regimen.

This study also highlights how active the research community is in finding better tools for managing MS. While this particular trial is preliminary, it opens the door for more rigorous studies that could bring new hope.

What You Can Do Now

Stay informed and keep learning. Be open to new research while staying grounded in what is already working for you.

Between doctor visits, continue using the tools you already have nutrition, rest, movement, and mindset to reclaim your health and live with greater confidence.

Want More Encouragement Like This? Tune into this week’s special episode of My MS Podcast:
🎧 In the News: Does This Sugar Improve MS Function?
and Listen now to My MS Podcast