Hyaluronic Acid
Joint Fluid Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic Acid (Joint Fluid) is the key lubricating component of synovial (joint) fluid found in your joints. Hyaluronic Acid is found throughout the body, but is concentrated in joints. Hyaluronic Acid is made from Glucosamine building blocks converted into a very long, linear molecule that folds on itself to form a spherical shape in joint fluid. Hyaluronic Acid thus occupies large volumes, giving lubricating properties to joint fluid. This allows cartilage in joints to easily glide over each other, leading to smooth movements.

Hyaluronic Acid is more than just lubrication. Hyaluronic Acid also acts as a signaling message in joints, telling joint cells whether more Hyaluronic Acid needs to be produced. Hyaluronic Acid also forms the backbone of aggrecan, which is a key component of cartilage itself. Aggrecan is a proteoglycan, which is the scientific term for the molecules that contain Chondroitin Sulfates, giving cartilage its property of resiliency and ability to hold water.

In addition, Hyaluronic Acid is used extensively in the cosmetic industry and by dermatologists in anti-aging and moisturizing products due to its hydroscopic (absorbs and retains water) properties. In fact, Hyaluronic Acid can absorb more than 1,000 times its weight in water allowing it to hydrate the skin and other areas that it contacts. In addition to its hyper-hydration properties, hyaluronic acid is also known for its role in wound healing and in the prevention of scarring. Hyaluronic Acid is the extra-cellular matrix (the fluid between skin cells) that acts as the transportation system for the cascade of events that happen in wound healing. Supplementation with Hyaluronic Acid helps to restore cushioning protection in the joint. Hyaluronic acid is also found in all connecting tissues of the body, such as ligaments and tendons, where it performs special functions of lubrication.

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