This trial studies glucosamine and chondroitin in preventing inflammation in overweight patients. Chronic inflammation contributes to cancer formation, and biomarkers of inflammation have been associated with cancer risk. Glucosamine and chondroitin may prevent inflammation and this trial may help identify the bacteria that help process them in the gut.

Inclusion Criteria:

-Individuals from the Greater Seattle area who are overweight (body mass index [BMI] of 25-32.5 kg/m^2)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Chronic medical illness, history of gastrointestinal, hepatic, or renal disorders, or inflammatory conditions (including autoimmune and inflammatory diseases)
• Pregnancy or lactation
• Currently on a weight-loss diet
• BMI (body mass index) < 25 or > 32.5 kg/m^2
• Alcohol intake of greater than 2 drinks/day (2 drinks being equivalent to 720 ml beer, 240 ml wine or 90 ml spirits)
• Current use of prescription or over-the-counter medications other than oral contraceptives and hormone secreting intrauterine device (IUD)s, multivitamin pills or infrequent use of aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or use of aspirin or NSAIDs more than 2 days per week
• Abnormal renal, liver or metabolic test
• Inability to swallow pills
• Known allergy to shellfish
• Not willing to take pills made from shellfish or animal sources
• Intention to relocate out of study area within next 2 months
• Any antibiotic use in the past 6 months