Hyaluronic Acid (also called Hyaluronan or HA) is present in every tissue of the body. Its most important biological role is the retention of water. It also carries nutrients and eliminates waste from structures of the body, such as cartilage, that do not have a direct blood supply. Without adequate HA, the body's most important connective structures can break down.*

The highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid are found in the joints, heart valves and eyes. It is also the primary component in synovial fluid, which helps cushion and lubricate joints.*

Hyaluronic Acid's Benefits Include:

• Restore lubrication and cushioning to joints
• Hydrate and moisturize the skin from the inside out
• Smooth skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Hyaluronic Acid Restores Joint Lubrication and Cushioning*
As a normal part of aging, our hyaluronic acid level drops, which affects our joints. Our joints are protected by a membrane that secretes synovial fluid. This fluid serves many functions, including acting as a lubricant, shock absorber and nutrient carrier. It protects joints and bones and is largely made up of hyaluronic acid.

Synovial fluid also brings nutrients to cartilage. High concentrations of HA are found in this connective tissue.

Hyaluronic acid plays an important role in helping build joint collagen as well.*

Glucosamine and Hyaluronic Acid for Joints
Glucosamine sulfate is widely used for joint support and can complement hyaluronic acid. Glucosamine is a precursor to the synthesis of HA. Where glucosamine is part of the protein content of joint collagen, HA is part of the polysaccharide content.

Hyaluronic Acid's Skin Benefits*
Hyaluronic acid is well known for skin care and news reports discussed potential anti-aging benefits.* Nicknamed the "key to the fountain of youth," hyaluronic acid was noted to help people live to ripe old ages. In the village of Yuzuri Hara, Japan, over ten percent of the population is over 85 years old, which is 10 times the norm for America. They don't just live longer either; they are healthier as well. And their skin shows little age. The reason was found to be the practice of eating "sticky vegetable" carbohydrates that stimulate the body's natural production of hyaluronic acid.

Skin collagen breaks down as we age. If we restore and maintain higher collagen levels, our skin can become softer and have fewer wrinkles. The properties of HA help rehydrate skin and build collagen, keeping the skin's extracellular matrix moist and supple.*

Hyaluronic Acid and Eye Health
Hyaluronic acid has been used for years in eye surgery as a shock absorber to protect the retina.*

Many factors can influence our hyaluronic acid levels, including age, diet and genetics. By the age of 50, we are estimated to have less half the level we had in our youth. Supplementation with HA might be a good way to fight the natural aging process.*