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Supplement ReviewsHyaluronic Acid (hyaluronan)
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is an endogenous uronic acid that is classified as a glycosaminoglycan (GAG). HA has been studied by scientists for over 40 years. It is a key component to many normal bodily functions and has hundreds of research studies showing its value in skin and joint health. It is naturally occurring in the body and the highest concentration is found in the soft connective tissue where it is a major component of the extracellular joint matrix. HA is present in cartilage, in synovial joint fluid, and in the skin tissue, both dermis and epidermis. Due to its composition and properties it can have anti-aging and joint supporting properties. Joint health is vital for hard training athletes and HA may be important in supporting optimal joint function.
HA supports healthy skin function and in one study published in the
Journal of Cellular Physiology in 1998, HA was shown to help
proliferate healthy skin cells in a collagen matrix. HA enhances
skin moisture (hydration) and functions as a lubricant between the
collagen matrix of the skin. Since it is a component of the skin
structure and declines with age, supplementation can insure adequate
levels remain in the skin to support its healthy appearance and
function. Hey, who couldn’t use ‘good looking’ skin? Hyaluronic
acid has been shown to support wound healing. In a study entitled
“The properties of hyaluronan and its role in wound healing”
published in 2001, HA is discussed as having wound healing
properties. It seems to work through its water retaining
properties. HA specifically is a key nutrient in joint health. In
a review by Moskowitz from Case Western Reserve University entitled
“Hyaluronic acid supplementation” and published in 2000, he states
that “Hyaluronan preparations have been shown to decrease pain and
increase function in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee.” HA
seems to work through several mechanisms of action including
restoration of more normal synovial fluid with improved
viscoelasticity, effects on cartilage biosynthesis and degradation,
anti-inflammatory effects, and direct analgesic effects. This is
the most important effect it has for athletes. It can actually be
taken to support healthy joints (preventative maintenance), not only
to support recovery from joint injury. A good dose is 200 mg taken
in divided doses daily.
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© 2002-2005 Supplement Research Foundation, Inc. All rights reserved. The content on this site is for informational purposes only and does not replace the advice of a qualified physician. Please consult a doctor before starting any nutrition, training, and supplementation program.
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