What is Hyaluronic Acid (HA)?
Hyaluronic Acid (hyaluronan)
Hyaluronic Acid is a hydrophilic (water-loving) carbohydrate found naturally throughout the human body. First isolated by Karl Meyer in 1934, Hyaluronic Acid is comprised of the molecules N-acetyl glucosamine and glucuronic acid. Hyaluronic Acid is also known as hyaluronan or hyaluronate.
Its linear, rope-like structure allows it to bind up to 1,000 times its weight in water. As Hyaluronic Acid seeks out and binds to water, it becomes a viscous, Jell-O-like substance that serves as the body’s natural lubricant and provider of cushioning and elasticity.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance in the body. It is a major component of synovial fluid, the lubricating material present in many joints, and as such, plays an important role in maintaining joint health. Although the body produces its own Hyaluronic Acid, this supply declines with age, causing joints to become stiff and painful.
With its high lubrication and cushioning effect, Hyaluronic Acid helps to reduce friction and resist compression, allowing joints to bear weight and withstand tension.
The best Hyaluronic Acid is of high molecular weight and works in several ways: it helps to restore synovial fluid for improved mobility, prevents further degradation of joint tissues, and has an anti-inflammatory, analgesic effect. It can also provide improvement, where glucosamine and chondroitin have failed to do so.
According to research, Hyaluronic Acid taken daily helps to rebuild the “pillow” of fluid that cushions joints for up to 97% of people who try it, and some experts believe it may also stimulate the repair of joint cartilage, now this is enhanced with the addition of vitamin C.
