Hyaluronic acid, one ingredient you can't ignore!

We are all looking for a little extra help in the battle against aging skin and tired joints. Hyaluronic acid has become increasingly popular, and it's been called the "key to the fountain of youth." Hyaluronic acid has become a 'must-have" for the beauty and wellness industry, but don't let the word "acid" confuse you. Hyaluronic acid (or HA) is the "go-to ingredient" found in many beauty and health products. HA is a powerful humectant, and it plays an essential role in the body's self-maintenance system and aging. 

 

It's no mystery that as you age, your skin begins to let you down. Nobody wants their skin to show signs of aging, but, unfortunately, it's unavoidable. The most noticeable tell-tell signs are deep-set wrinkles, fine lines, sagging skin, loss of elasticity, and the dreaded "turkey neck." So, what causes our skin to age? Several external factors contribute to aging, such as losing too much moisture, environmental stress, improper diet, sun exposure, and a lack of movement. 

Over time the fluid in your joints breaks down and decreases flexibility and mobility. It's easy to forget how much we depend on our bones and joints, but your bones tend to shrink in size with age, making them more susceptible to fracture. Your joints are more prone to injury, and the healing process takes longer. HA helps bring back lubrication and cartilage cushioning for joint flexibility and movement. It is most commonly used in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis and joint pain. Hyaluronic Acid has also become a widely used ingredient in the cosmetic industry to treat dry and/or aging skin. Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent the aging process, but there are many important factors within our power to change, starting with prevention.

There are some important players in a diet targeting hyaluronic acid production, especially Vitamin C as it plays a crucial role in stimulating HA production. Red wine, and red grape juice, foods containing soy, oranges, grapefruits, limes, lemons; bell peppers; as well as parsley and cilantro.

As we age, hyaluronic acid depletes, our body produces less and less hyaluronic acid (HA,) especially after age 40. The depletion causes a loss of moisture, essentially drying out our skin, causing the skin to look old. So, what is it?

What is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a protein, a gel-like substance produced in the body. Also known as hyaluronan, hyaluronic acid's primary role is cushioning and lubricating connective tissue by binding to water. Its function is to lubricate, provide moisture, and cushion our connective tissue. It helps with building collagen and supports eyes, skin, and even your heart valves. HA is why, during the younger years, your skin stays plump, firm and your wrinkles and fine lines are softer. For joints within the human body, Hyaluronic acid acts as a moisturizer, keeping tissues hydrated. It provides lubrication, growth of cartilage and bones, and plays a vital role in reducing inflammation. 

Uses of hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid is effective for a number of reasons: 

      • Natural moisturization: Hyaluronic acid provides hydration and moisturization to the body's largest organ, the skin. It retains water molecules for longer periods. Furthermore, the anti-aging effect can vary from person to person. It depends on other factors such as poor nutrition, smoking, alcohol consumption, exposure to the sun, etc.
      • Wound healing: HA can accelerate wound healing because it controls inflammation and redirects blood vessels to damaged skin areas, thus renewing them faster.
      • Joint lubricator: synovial fluid, which lubricates and cushions joints, also contains hyaluronic acid. Over time, HA also breaks down in these regions, which contributes to their pain and stiffness. Therefore, doctors often use hyaluronic acid injections to treat conditions related to this problem, such as osteoarthritis.

     

    If you're not getting enough HA production through your diet, chances are your body will slowly respond as cartilage and other structures of your joints begin to weaken and break down. Without proper lubrication, the joints become stiff, and movement is painful, especially with daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, typing, etc. 

    By adding Hyaluronic acid to your diet, you can ensure that you're getting the HA your body needs to run smoothly and recover quickly. Optimizing your HA levels may also help support treatments for many inherited connective tissue disorders, as well as to stave off premature aging. 

    Shop Roex Hyaluronic Acid and more joint support products.

     

    * FDA Disclaimer

    The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not meant to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or medical condition. Please consult your health care professional before using any product.

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