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Hyaluronic
Acid
Cushion, Lubricate And Support Healthy Joints
What Is It?
And Where Does It Come From?
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a protein (polyelectrolyte - a charged
polymer) that occurs naturally throughout the human body and is
concentrated in the synovial joint fluids, the heart valves and the
eyes. Hyaluronic acid belongs to a family of proteins known as
glycosaminoglycans and is a key component of cartilage.
In supplemental form HA is a white, odorless powder also known as
hyaluronan, sodium hyaluronate and HA.
What
Does It Do?
And What Scientific Studies Give Evidence To Support This?
Hyaluronic acid is versatile and is found in every tissue.
Its primary use in the body is as a component of cartilage. In this
role HA is used to cushion the body from impact, lubricate joints, and
protect joints from chronic inflammation (arthritis). It can also heal
damaged joint tissue1.
HA is a common ingredient in anti-osteoarthritis preparations because
of its anti-arthritic properties, and it is frequently injected into the
joints as a treatment for osteoarthritis2. Some research
questions the benefit of this practice.3
HA also supports healthy immune function by acting as an antioxidant,
holding water in the body, lubricating heart valves, and reducing
bacterial infections.
Oxidants are created from food digestion, and these free radicals can
damage internal organs, DNA and muscles, resulting in impaired immune
function and increased vulnerability to injury, illness and disease.
Hydration is critical for healthy immune function, for muscle growth,
and for the absorption of ascorbic acid and the B class vitamins.
Finally, a healthy heart acts to maintain cardiovascular health and to
pump vital vitamins and minerals to needed areas.
Hyaluronic Acid has been used both topically and orally for years
because of its anti-aging effects. The cosmetic industry discovered that
hyaluronic acid protects skin from aging and helps to maintain smooth,
elastic skin by maintaining skin hydration.
Anecdote also suggests that HA can even restore lost hair color, but
research has not verified this.
Genetics, environment and diet all influence HA levels.
Who Needs It?
And What Are Some Symptoms Of Deficiency?
Everyone needs HA, but some will benefit more than others from
supplementation.
People with arthritis and compromised immune systems can derive
particular benefit from HA use. Athletes can also benefit from HA
supplementation as the joints are frequently subjected to stresses
during athletic competition and the immune system subject to elevated
free radical levels.
Magnesium is a limiting nutrient for HA synthesis, so be sure to
intake sufficient amounts of magnesium when supplementing with HA.
Smokers are frequently HA deficient, and vitamin C is known to degrade
HA, so use vitamin C sparingly
when supplementing with HA.
Symptoms of deficiency include compromised immune system function,
ocular abnormalities, and skin conditions.
How Much Should Be Taken?
And Are There Any Side Effects?
Strictly adhere to label recommendations.
No known side effects exist, and clinical trials show that adverse
reactions are rare.4
Persons with chemical abnormalities like mitral valve prolapse, TMJ
and osteoarthritis may experience side-effects from HA abnormalities.
Consult your doctor prior to use if you suffer from these conditions.
HA is best taken with zinc and magnesium. Beneficial effect is seen
with HA supplementation at two to four months.
REFERNCES:
- Kang Y, Eger W, Koepp H, Williams JM, Kuettner KE, Homandberg GA.
Hyaluronan suppresses fibronectin fragment-mediated damage to human
cartilage explant cultures by enhancing proteoglycan synthesis. J
Orthop Res. 1999 Nov;17(6):858-69.
- Marshall KW. Viscosupplementation for osteoarthritis: current
status, unresolved issues and future directions. J Rheumatol
1998;25:2056-8.
- Lohmander LS, Dalen N, Englund G, Hamalainen M, Jensen EM,
Karlsson K, et al. Intra-articular hyaluronan injections in the
treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomised, double blind,
placebo controlled multicentre trial. Hyaluronan Mulicentre Trial
Group. Ann Rheum Dis 1996;55:424-31.
- Lohmander LS, Dalen N, Englund G, Hamalainen M, Jensen EM,
Karlsson K, et al. Intra-articular hyaluronan injections in the
treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomised, double blind,
placebo controlled multicentre trial. Hyaluronan Mulicentre Trial
Group. Ann Rheum Dis 1996;55:424-31.
Information given
by this website is provided for informational purposes and is not meant
to substitute for the advice provided by a physician or other medical
professionals. You should not use the information given for diagnosing a
health problem or disease. If you have or suspect that you have a
medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider.
The above information is just a guide to general circumstances and in no
way should it contradict the advice that you have been given by your
medical doctor or specialist.
* These statements have not been
evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not
intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. |
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