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Hyaluronic acid also known as hyaluronan, is a sugar which is produced naturally in the body, including the skin, eyes, and connective tissues. The primary function of hyaluronic acid is to provide moisture to these areas of the body by retaining water to keep the tissues moist and lubricated. 

As we age, the moisture in the skin decrease. Hyaluronic acid thus gives moisture to the skin. 

It can be used in many ways, providing various benefits to the body. It can be used as 

• Serum
• Oral supplements
• Topical creams or Lotions
• Injections.

5 Surprising benefits of Hyaluronic acids

1. Hydrates skin and Prevent from Aging- It promotes more healthier and supple skin 

Many people use hyaluronic acid to hydrate their skin in the form of topical cream, serum or sometimes also add it in their diet as a supplement.  Hyaluronic acid can increase the moisture in the skin, thereby improving the quality of skin by providing smooth and healthy skin. This is good for those having dry skin. 

One of the previous research found that its use in the form of cream or serum for 8 weeks, hydrates skin upto 96%, thereby increase the skin moisture and reduce dry skin in adults and enhance skin firmness and elasticity.

As per the reports, the benefits of keeping hydrated is the reduction of wrinkles, dermatitis and redness on the skin. 

 2. Speed up Wound Healing

As Hyaluronic acid helps to keep and maintain the skin moisturised and thus helps in tissue regeneration process, which is involved in healing wounds.

The concentration of Hyaluronic acid increases at wound side, which help to heal wounds fast. Study also found, when applying on wound areas, it can help relieve inflammation and regulate tissue repair.

Having antibacterial properties, study shown that on apply it, reduces the risk of infection.  

3. Reduce joint pain 

Hyaluronic acid is also found in the joints. Its use as injection into the joints or in the supplement form, helps to lubricate them. These are helpful in people suffering from osteoarthritis, according to the reports. 

Previous study shows that taking 80-200 mg per day for at least two months, has reduced joint pain in people with osteoarthritis.

Some research showed that combining hyaluronic acid with other medications used for treating these symptoms, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids, can extend pain relieving benefits. 

4. Reduces acid reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition that causes symptoms such as acid reflux and heartburn, a condition where the contents of the stomach are thrown up into the throat, causing pain and damage to the lining of the oesophagus.

New research shows hyaluronic acid supplements may help to reduce the symptoms of acid reflux. It may help soothe the oesophagus lining and speed up the recovery process. 

Some previous research found that hyaluronic acid supplements taken along with acid suppression, decrease 60% symptoms more than taking acid suppression alone. Together it helped to improve symptoms of GERD, non-erosive reflux disease. 

5. Soothes Dry Eye and Discomfort 

According to the data, 1 out of 7 older people suffers the symptoms of dry eye due to the less production of tears or tears evaporating too quickly. Hyaluronic acid retains moisture, so it can be used to treat dry eye. 

As per the reports, Eye drops containing 0.2–0.4% hyaluronic acid have been shown to reduce dry eye symptoms and improve eye health

Previous study found that taking a combination of oral and topical hyaluronic acid soothe the symptoms of dry eye.

Availability

Hyaluronic acid is available in a variety of different forms:

• Oral-It comes in the form of tables to treat skin and other medical problems like joint pain etc. 
• Topical- It is available in the form of creams, lotions, serums and foams, which increase moisture levels in the skin and thus reduce signs of aging.
• Injections- hyaluronic acid in injection form can have a range of uses. It can have medical and cosmetic purposes like facial and lip fillers. 

FooDs Rich in Hyaluronic Acids

• Bone broth- is the best food source of hyaluronic acid.
• Root vegetables- such as turnips, carrots, potatoes, onions etc.
• Soy based foods- Soy and soy products, tofu in a salad, stir-fry soy chunks with a few veggies 
• Citrus fruits and Berries- such as grapefruits, oranges, bananas, avocados, bell peppers, cherries and tomatoes
• Leafy greens- like kale, spinach, and Swiss card 

Side effects of Hyaluronic Acid

Since Hyaluronic acid are produced in the body naturally, allergic reactions from it are very rare and so its use are generally safe. Though few people have reported some side-effects after its use. 

Research also reported that participants taking oral hyaluronic acid for 12 months, have reported zero or no side effects, while article shows, its use in injection form gives fewer side-effects. Some of them are: 

• Bruising
• Flushed skin
• Itching
• Pain
• Swelling

Its effect during pregnancy or breastfeeding have not been clear and are advised to consult doctor before using it.

According to the research, People suffering from Cancer are sensitive to hyaluronic acid, it increases the cancer cells to grow faster, so these patients should avoid taking hyaluronic acid in any form.   

Summary

Using hyaluronic acid supplements or topical products are generally safe and help people to maintain a youthful appearance and fight many signs of aging. It can also help treat some medical conditions, such as treating eye dryness or joint pain but people who are pregnant or have cancer or a history of cancer may need to avoid taking it.

Reports also suggest that hyaluronic acid injections into the skin or joints have a higher risk of side effects and no side-effects have seen after using creams. It is still advisable to consult healthcare professional before using it or taking supplements.