Hyaluronic acid, also known as hyaluronan, is a clear substance naturally produced by the human body. Its main function is to retain water in order to keep human tissues well lubricated and moist.

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Hyaluronic acid constitutes one of the major components of extracellular matrix and it is an important part of the connective tissue and synovial fluid.

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According to Healthline*, the benefits of hyaluronic acid, are:

 

“Healthier, More Supple Skin

Roughly half of the hyaluronic acid in the human body is present in human skin, where it binds to water to help retain moisture. However, the natural ageing process and exposure to things like ultraviolet radiation from the sun, tobacco smoke and pollution can decrease its amounts in the skin. According to one study, taking hyaluronic acid supplements may prevent this decline by giving the body extra amounts to incorporate into the skin

 

Faster Wound Healing

Hyaluronic acid helps wounds heal faster by regulating inflammation levels and signalling the body to build more blood vessels in the damaged area. Applying it to skin wounds has been shown to reduce the size of wounds and decrease pain faster than a placebo or no treatment at all. According to research, hyaluronic acid also has antibacterial properties, so it can help reduce the risk of infection when applied directly to open wounds.

 

Relieved Joint Pain by Keeping Bones Well Lubricated

Hyaluronic acid is also found in the joints, where it keeps the space between your bones well lubricated. When the joints are lubricated, the bones are less likely to grind against each other and cause uncomfortable pain. Hyaluronic acid supplements are very helpful for people suffering from osteoarthritis, a type of degenerative joint disease caused by wear and tear on the joints over time. In one study, taking 80–200 mg daily for at least two months has been shown to significantly reduce knee pain in people with osteoarthritis, especially those between the ages of 40 and 70 years old

 

Reduced Acid Reflux Symptoms

One study found that taking a hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate supplement along with an acid-reducing medication decreased reflux symptoms 60% more than taking acid-reducing medication alone.

 

Relieved Dry Eye and Discomfort

Approximately 1 out of 7 older adults suffer from symptoms of dry eye due to reduced tear production or tears evaporating too quickly. Since hyaluronic acid is excellent at retaining moisture, it’s often used to treat dry eye. According to research, eye drops containing 0.2–0.4% hyaluronic acid have been shown to reduce dry eye symptoms and improve eye health.”

 

Sources

 

1. Healthline. 7 Surprising Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/hyaluronic-acid-benefits.
    

2. PubMed.gov. Efficacy and Safety of 0.2% Hyaluronic Acid in the Management of Dry Eye Disease. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26783978/.
    

3. PubMed.gov. Oral Hyaluron Relieves Knee Pain: a Review. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4729158/.
    

4. PubMed.gov. Bacteriostatic Effects of Hyaluronic Acid. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10328647/.
    

5. PubMed.gov. Ingested Hyaluronan Moisturizes Skin. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25014997/.

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Disclaimer

 

* Healthline content has been edited for brevity. For the full description, including sources, please visit: 7 Surprising Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid on Healthline.com. 

 

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