Hyaluronic acid is like a superfood for the skin. It is often found in anti-aging skin care products and in injectable format. It helps plump and hydrate the skin, keeping it looking fresh and youthful. However, did you know that it can be found in some foods as well? Getting your hyaluronic acid internally can help hydrate the skin from within. What’s more, taking it internally can help keep your joints feeling young as well! 

What is hyaluronic acid, and why do we need it?

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body. It helps to hydrate skin and lubricate joints. It even plays a role in keeping our eyes moist, being a component in the synovial fluid in our eyes. In fact, this acid can hold 1000 times its own weight in water. It also helps to decrease collagen loss, which happens as we age.

50% of the body’s hyaluronic acid is located in the skin. As we age, our body naturally starts producing less and less. This contributes to dry skin which shows off fine lines, wrinkles, and creases easily. Of course, it also affects other areas of your body that make use of this acid as well, playing a part in issues such as dry eyes and joint problems. 

Foods high in hyaluronic acid

So, with all those good benefits it packs, and knowing how important it is, you’re probably now wondering where you can get some! There are several different choices you have. The two biggest sources of hyaluronic acid are meat sources: bone broth and organ meats. Bone broth is a broth made by simmering animal bones for hours to extract all the collagen and other good stuff within. Organ meats are another food high in hyaluronic acid. Organ meats often get a bad rap, but they’re worth a try and with the right recipe and cooking method, can taste as good as any cut of meat! 

Vegetarian choices

For vegetarians, there are also some food choices you can eat. These foods don’t contain hyaluronic acid, but they do help the body make it. Research suggests that its absorption is enhanced when you eat foods high in magnesium, zinc, and vitamin C. Some vegetarian food choices that may help improve the absorption of hyaluronic acid include: avocados, sweet potatoes, broccoli, beans, leafy greens like kale, and bananas. Basically, eat a good range of vegetables for amazing skin health and many other benefits as well!

So be sure to get your dose of hyaluronic acid internally. Don’t neglect your insides. The best healing often occurs from within and that starts with eating well.