Wizard of Vitamins

Hyaluronic Acid Vitamin

What is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a member of the family of molecules known as glycosaminoglycans. This family also includes chondroitin sulfate and some other large carbohydrate-containing molecules. Hyaluronic acid is an important component of the connective tissue that fills the spaces between cells of the skin and other tissues, and is a major ingredient of the synovial fluid that lubricates and cushions joints as well as the vitreous humor that fills the inner chamber of the eye.

Hyaluronic Acid in Diets

Hyaluronic acid is produced in the human body and is found in the tissues of all animals. A nonanimal source of hyaluronic acid can be synthesized by bacterial fermentation.

Hyaluronic Acid Medicinal Treatments

Dry eye syndrome (topical) Gingivitis (topical) Skin ulcers (topical) Wound healing (topical) Osteoarthritis

Known Consequences of Hyaluronic Acid Deficiency

Hyaluronic acid is produced naturally in the human body and is not considered an essential nutrient. However, hyaluronic acid levels in osteoarthritic joints are below normal.

Hyaluronic Acid Recommended Dosages

Amounts for oral supplementation have not been established, due to lack of research, and it is unknown whether hyaluronic acid can be absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Topical products are applied in the mouth two or more times per day, to the nose three to four times per day, or with bandaging for skin ulcers. Eye drops containing 0.1 to 0.4% sodium hyaluronate are used three or more times per day, and ear drops containing 1% sodium hyaluronate are used once a day.

Hyaluronic Acid Side Effects

A controlled study reported that males taking 600 mg per day of hyaluronic acid for four weeks had higher blood levels of the enzyme alkaline phosphatase. The significance of this finding is unclear. There have been anecdotal reports of skin rash following oral supplementation with hyaluronic acid. At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with hyaluronic acid.