Relatively new as a dietary supplement ingredient, hyaluronic
acid has now been available for more than ten years. However,
it has been used much longer than that as an injectable for
supporting joint structure. Of course, the nutrient is indigenous
to our bodies and present in connective tissues, nerves, brain
tissue, and the skin. Hyaluronic acid is a complex molecule made
up of two special sugars, N-acetyl-glucosamine and glucuronic
acid. Hyaluronic acid disaccharides are produced and secreted
in nearby tissue by cells in joint cartilage, synovial membranes,
the cornea of the eye, tear ducts and skin. Wherever hyaluronic
acid occurs it plays vital roles in maintaining the hydration and
lubrication of… Download to read the entire chapter
