Glucarate

Glucarate refers to the salts and esters of D-glucaric acid, also known as saccharic acid. At physiological pH it primarily exists as the dianion, and calcium D-glucarate is the best-known form used in dietary supplements. Glucaric acid is chemically related to glucuronic acid and can arise from the oxidation of glucose through metabolic pathways.

Biologically, glucuronidation is a major detoxification process in which glucuronic acid is conjugated to a wide range of substances to increase their solubility and promote excretion. Glucarate itself is not the same as glucuronate, but it is closely related and is marketed in supplement form with the claim of supporting detoxification by modulating this pathway, often via purported inhibition of gut beta-glucuronidase.

Dietary supplements containing calcium D-glucarate are promoted for detoxification support and, by some, as a cancer-prevention adjunct. Most of the human evidence for these claims is limited or inconclusive; robust clinical data demonstrating clear benefits in cancer risk reduction or toxin elimination are lacking. Much of the supportive data comes from in vitro studies or animal research, with mixed or uncertain applicability to humans.

Safety and interactions: calcium D-glucarate is generally well tolerated at labeled doses, but gastrointestinal upset can occur in some individuals. Because it is connected to glucuronidation pathways, there is concern about potential interactions with medications whose clearance depends on glucuronidation. As with any supplement, use should be discussed with a healthcare provider, especially for individuals taking prescription drugs or with underlying health conditions.