Look and Feel Better on a Cellular Level with Hyaluronic Acid

You know that friend who not only tends to make you feel better, but lends you her favorite skirt to make you actually look better too? That’s what Hyaluronic Acid is like. Let me explain. Hyaluronic Acid was discovered close to 1940 and used commercially initially as a replacement for egg whites. Since then, scientists have found that Hyaluronic Acid or HA, as it is referred to as, is incredibly beneficial in the health field.

Scientifically speaking, HA is a carbohydrate that bonds well with water to create a thick gel-like matter (similar to egg whites). Our bodies naturally create HA. It helps cushion our joints and lubricates connective tissue, joints, muscles, eyeballs and skin. As we age, our bodies produce smaller amounts. As a result, our joints get stiffer, our muscles get weaker, and our eyeballs and skin get dry (resulting in wrinkles). There are even benefits to the immune system considering HA helps cells get rid of waste, which permits white blood cells to purge the body of bacteria. 

So, not only does this acid make your joints and muscles feel better and improve your immune system,  it will also enhance your skin, making wrinkles less obvious resulting in a younger appearance. HA is very good for you, both on the inside and the outside.

So how do we replace this vital acid in our bodies? There are actually several ways. There are oral dietary supplements that are sold in a pill form. Topical Hyaluronic Acid comes in creams and serums that can be rubbed on to the skin. And there are shots that can be given by a physician.  Of course, there are specific foods that either contain the acid or help our bodies manufacture it. Foods like starches and soy, and other foods rich in magnesium and zinc help the body create HA. It can also be located in the cartilage of animals, especially chickens. Chicken skin includes a lot too. You can eat the cartilage or boil the skin and bones of a chicken and drink the broth. But for most people, though, it’s easiest to buy Hyaluronic Acid over the counter in capsule form. You will find HA in health-food stores, vitamin shops and local pharmacies. Despite the fact that reported side effects are not serious and consist of skin irritations, rashes, etc., it’s a very good idea to let your doctor know whenever you add a health supplement to your diet.