Hyaluronic Acid

FUNCTIONS

As joints age, hyaluronic acid, the fluid that provides lubrication between joints and connective tissue, begins to break down. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a large polysaccharide found in connective tissue. HA forms large, bulky molecular chains that allow joints to move smoothly and provides a cushion between the joints. Over time, this fluid begins to lose its bulkiness and often leaks from the joints, with the resulting friction causing discomfort. While much of the medical focus has been on alleviating the inflammation of aging joints, newer technologies focus on supplanting the aging fluid with newer fluid. The use of injected hyaluronic acid for aging joints is already sanctioned by the American College of Rheumatology. However, since the inconvenience and discomfort of injections can often keep patients from seeking this procedure, new research has focused on using oral forms of hyaluronic acid. Initial (but as of yet unpublished) studies on horses and humans indicate that the oral form of HA may be useful for joint health. While more studies are needed to determine the mechanism of action and absorption of HA from the blood, the initial studies indicate a potential use for oral HA in joint health.