Hyaluronic Acid or HA is a substance normally found in the cells of the body. It serves very important functions of delivering nutrients and removing toxins from these cells. Cartilages have the most abundant supply of Hyaluronic Acid as cartilage is formed when Hyaluronic acid attaches with elastin and collagen. Hyaluronic acid makes cartilages strong and flexible and it also increases the amount of synovial fluid that lubricates the joint. Without Hyaluronic acid, the joints become fragile and will easily deteriorate. As people grow older, the amount of Hyaluronic acid in the body also gradually decreases and may require Hyaluronic acid supplementation. Dietary sources of Hyaluronic acid are starchy root vegetables like potatoes. Hyaluronic acid supplements are also available.
Today Hyaluronic acid is gaining fame in the medical and cosmetic markets. It promotes total health because of its ability to retain water which is helpful in moisturising the skin and other body tissues. Because of the numerous benefits of Hyaluronic acid, many international drug companies are manufacturing Hyaluronic acid supplements, Hyaluronic Acid creams, and Hyaluronic Acid injection. Hyaluronic acid’s effect against skin-aging is its most recent contribution to the skin-care field. According to studies, it is even more effective than collagen in preventing wrinkles and skin-sagging.
Hyaluronic Acid Benefits
- Hyaluronic acid creams helps in skin rejuvenation by adequately moisturising the skin. It gives the skin a more youthful and radiant appearance, thus being called the “key to the fountain of youth”.
- Treatment of rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Hyaluronic acid injections have been recently approved by the FDA as an effective treatment for several forms of arthritis.
- Adequate amount of Hyaluronic acid in the body helps in ensuring ample production of white blood cells. It results in improved immune system and higher resistance against infections.
- Hyaluronic acid promotes faster wound healing and may help in reducing the appearance of old and new scars.
- Hyaluronic acid can decrease pain levels in patients with chronic pain disorders.
- Regular use of Hyaluronic acid can help people with alopecia as it supports hair growth.
- Studies suggests that due to its ability to support connective tissues, commercial hylauronic acid products can prevent and treat connective tissue disorders such as fractures, hernias, detached retinas, glaucoma, keratoconus, and muscle contractures.
- Mitral valve prolapse has been linked to Hyaluronic acid deficiency. Adequate supplementation of Hyaluronic acid may improve its symptoms.
Hyaluronic Acid Side Effects
Side effects are rare and most of the reported cases occurred to people who use Hyaluronic acid injections. Notable side effects are irritation and swelling in the injection site, dizziness, cough, rashes, stuffy nose, allergic reactions, diarrhea, acute headache, loss of appetite, and upset stomach.
