Aging is inescapable. As time evolves, cellular processes slow down, and the body gradually loses its function. And it doesn't take long for signs of aging to show up on our bodies.
Anyone who follows a skincare routine religiously may have heard of the hyaluronic acid serum. The serum that heals and restores your youthful appearance.
However, hyaluronic acid does not only have one purpose; read on to find out what is hyaluronic acid and how it works!
HYALURONIC ACID: WHAT IS IT? AND WHERE IS IT FOUND?
Hyaluronic acid, also known as hyaluronan, is not exactly an acid; it is a complex sugar that your body naturally produces. That is correct; your body produces hyaluronic acid. More than 50% of hyaluronic acid is present in the skin, where it acts as a humectant; that is, it attracts water, retains it, and maintains the skin moisture. Other parts of the body containing hyaluronan are:
- eyes
- joint spaces and the fluid within the joints
- cartilage
- connective tissues
- blood vessels, heart valves, and umbilical cord
Hyaluronic acid is a highly viscous fluid. It is this viscosity that lubricates joints and aids in mobility. Within the eyes, hyaluronan maintains the structure of the eyeballs and keeps them well-lubricated as well. Additionally, hyaluronan also stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. Consequently indirectly boosts the elasticity of your skin and reduces scarring.
- dry, wrinkled skin
- poor joint mobility
- joint pain and less flexibility
- dry eyes
SOURCES OF HYALURONIC ACID For this reason, it is necessary to replace the dwindling hyaluronan.
There are many forms of hyaluronic acid present. Foods rich in hyaluronan are:
- bone broth
- soy-based foods such as tofu
- citrus fruits (oranges, lemon, grapefruit)
- leafy greens (kale, spinach, microgreens)
- starchy root vegetables (turnip, carrots, potatoes)
- nuts and seeds (almonds, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds) However, most times, even increasing the intake of these foods will not increase hyaluronan levels sufficiently to produce therapeutic or desired effects. Subsequently, it may become necessary to consume hyaluronic acid supplements or include them in your skincare regime as lotions or serums.
BENEFITS OF HYALURONIC ACID
- Several types of research show that intake of oral hyaluronic acid supplements:
- moisturizes dry skin
- reduces wrinkles
- relieves joint pain, especially in individuals dealing with osteoarthritis
- reduces heartburn and acid reflux
Hyaluronic acid in the form of suppositories, serum, lotions, creams, and gels is effective in:
- moisturizing the skin and combating wrinkles
- alleviating vaginal dryness in menopausal women
- assists in wound or ulcer healing
- mitigating the symptoms of eczema
- hyaluronic acid-containing eye drops also soothe dry eyes
THE TAKEAWAY
Although the body naturally produces hyaluronic acid, this essential function declines as one ages. Therefore, it has become vital to replace the dwindling hyaluronan levels in the body. So, whether you are dealing with arthritis or dry skin, there are many forms of hyaluronic acid to choose from that will support your health.
REFERENCES
- Walker K, Basehore BM, Goyal A, Zito PM. Hyaluronic Acid. 2021 Nov 15. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan–. PMID: 29494047.
- Abatangelo G, Vindigni V, Avruscio G, Pandis L, Brun P. Hyaluronic Acid: Redefining Its Role. Cells. 2020 Jul 21;9(7):1743. doi: 10.3390/cells9071743. PMID: 32708202; PMCID: PMC7409253.
- Litwiniuk M, Krejner A, Speyrer MS, Gauto AR, Grzela T. Hyaluronic Acid in Inflammation and Tissue Regeneration. Wounds. 2016 Mar;28(3):78-88. PMID: 26978861.
- Kawada C, Yoshida T, Yoshida H, Matsuoka R, Sakamoto W, Odanaka W, Sato T, Yamasaki T, Kanemitsu T, Masuda Y, Urushibata O. Ingested hyaluronan moisturizes dry skin. Nutr J. 2014 Jul 11;13:70. doi: 10.1186/1475-2891-13-70. PMID: 25014997; PMCID: PMC4110621.
- Hsu TF, Su ZR, Hsieh YH, Wang MF, Oe M, Matsuoka R, Masuda Y. Oral Hyaluronan Relieves Wrinkles and Improves Dry Skin: A 12-Week Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Study. Nutrients. 2021 Jun 28;13(7):2220. doi: 10.3390/nu13072220. PMID: 34203487; PMCID: PMC8308347.
- Oe M, Tashiro T, Yoshida H, Nishiyama H, Masuda Y, Maruyama K, Koikeda T, Maruya R, Fukui N. Oral hyaluronan relieves knee pain: a review. Nutr J. 2016 Jan 27;15:11. doi: 10.1186/s12937-016-0128-2. PMID: 26818459; PMCID: PMC4729158.
