Hyaluronic acid

What is it and where does it come from?

Hyaluronic acid is a protein (a polyelectrolyte, i.e. a charged polymer) that occurs naturally in the human body and has the highest concentration in the synovial fluid, the heart valves and the eyes. Hyaluronic acid belongs to the family of proteins known as glycosaminoglycans and is a key component of articular cartilage. In supplement form, hyaluronic acid is available as a white, odorless powder, which is also known as hyaluronan or sodium hyaluronan.

What does it do? And are there any scientific studies to support this effect?

Hyaluronic acid is very versatile and can be found in all types of body tissue. In the body, hyaluronic acid is primarily used as a component of joint cartilage. In this role, hyaluronic acid is used to cushion the body from impact, lubricate the joints and protect the joints from chronic inflammation (arthritis). Hyaluronic acid can also help heal damaged joint tissue (1). Hyaluronic acid is a common ingredient in anti-osteoarthritis preparations due to its anti-arthritis effects and is regularly injected into the joints as part of the treatment of osteoarthritis (2). However, some studies question the benefits of this approach (3). Hyaluronic acid also supports healthy immune function by acting as an antioxidant. It also retains water in the body, "lubricates" the heart valves and reduces bacterial infections. Oxidants are produced during the digestion of food. These free radicals can damage internal organs, DNA and muscles, resulting in impaired immune function and increased susceptibility to injury and disease. Adequate hydration is essential for a healthy immune system, muscle growth and the absorption of ascorbic acid and B vitamins. A healthy heart is important for maintaining cardiovascular health and pumps vital vitamins and minerals to where they are needed. Hyaluronic acid has been used for years for its antioxidant effects, both orally and transdermally. The cosmetic industry has discovered that hyaluronic acid protects the skin from aging and helps to keep the skin smooth and elastic by maintaining skin hydration. Anecdotal reports also suggest that hyaluronic acid can even restore the color of graying hair, although this suggestion has not yet been scientifically confirmed. Environmental factors, diet and genetic predispositions influence hyaluronic acid levels in the body.

Who needs hyaluronic acid? And what are the symptoms of a deficiency?

Everyone needs hyaluronic acid, but some people will benefit more than others from supplementation. People who suffer from arthritis or impaired immune system function may benefit particularly from hyaluronic acid supplementation. Athletes can also benefit from hyaluronic acid supplementation, as their joints are regularly subjected to high levels of stress during training and sporting competitions and their immune system is exposed to increased levels of free radicals. Magnesium is a limiting factor in hyaluronic acid synthesis, which is why you should ensure that you consume sufficient amounts of magnesium during hyaluronic acid supplementation. Smokers regularly have a hyaluronic acid deficiency and vitamin C is known to promote the breakdown of hyaluronic acid, which is why vitamin C should be used sparingly during hyaluronic acid supplementation. Symptoms of hyaluronic acid deficiency include impaired immune system function, eye abnormalities and skin conditions.

How much should you take?

You should strictly adhere to the recommended dosage on the label. Hyaluronic acid is best taken with zinc and magnesium. Positive effects of hyaluronic acid supplementation can usually be observed after two to four months of intake.

Safety and side effects

Prescription forms of hyaluronic acid are safe and harmless for most people. There is not enough information to say whether taking hyaluronic acid orally is safe and harmless. Injected hyaluronic acid can cause pain and redness. If hyaluronic acid is used during eye surgery, it can lead to an increase in intraocular pressure. In rare cases, hyaluronic acid can cause allergic reactions.

Precautions and warnings

Pregnancy and lactation: Hyaluronic acid may be safe and harmless when administered as an injection during pregnancy. Not enough is known about the safety of hyaluronic acid taken orally during pregnancy. For this reason, pregnant women should avoid oral hyaluronic acid to be on the safe side.

Breastfeeding women should not use hyaluronic acid orally or in the form of injections. Scientists do not know whether it can pass into breast milk and what effects it could have on the breastfed child.

People with chemical abnormalities such as mitral valve prolapse, TJM and osteoarthritis may experience side effects due to hyaluronic acid abnormalities. Consult your physician before supplementing if you suffer from any of these disorders.

REFERENCES

1. 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.
2. Marshall KW. Viscosupplementation for osteoarthritis: current status, unresolved issues and future directions. J Rheumatol 1998;25:2056-8.
3. 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 randomized, double blind, placebo controlled multicentre trial. Hyaluronan Mulicentre Trial Group. Ann Rheum Dis 1996;55:424-31.
4. 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 randomized, double blind, placebo controlled multicentre trial. Hyaluronan Mulicentre Trial Group. Ann Rheum Dis 1996;55:424-31.