Hyaluronic Acid – Age is Just a number!
In Yuzuri Hara, a Japanese village, the local population are considered to be some of the longest living people in the world, they often live well and happy to over a hundred, the village is known as ‘The Village of Long Life’. The local doctor, Dr Toyosuke Komori, has studied and written books about the people of Yuzuri Hara and their long life. He concludes that the longevity may be down to the diet of the local highly starchy vegetables, with the common ingredient being Hyaluronic Acid. Dr Komori, who is in his 80’s, adopted the local diet when he came to the village 60 years ago, he says “I feel very strongly that if I had not come here to Yuzuri Hara, I would not have lived this long and healthy a life”.
Hyaluronic Acid is a polysaccharide naturally produced in the body, but as we age, the levels of Hyaluronic Acid decrease. It occurs in high concentrations in the eyes, joints and skin, with its main purpose to retain moisture and keep the soft tissues lubricated and hydrated. In the last few years the medical use for Hyaluronic Acid has grown substantially, with it been used for eye and joint injections, and studies are indicating many more potential uses including wound healing and burns. The skin care industry has also jumped on Hyaluronic Acid for its age-defying properties too, with more and more products now introducing Hyaluronic Acid as a key ingredient. Hyaluronic Acid also seems to have good effects in treating age-related health problems; which seems like a “natural” bonus for anyone over 50!
Hyaluronic Acid supplements have been used for many years for joint, skin, eyes and bone health and its use in skin care products has grown dramatically and is well known, it now seems to be gaining popularity and interest in a number of other areas of health care including wound care, insomnia, fibromyalgia and chronic pain, although there are no major studies supporting these.
Hyaluronic Acid & Joints
Hyaluronic Acid is a key amino acid that is found in the joints, where it supports the synovial fluid and cartilage keeping the joints lubricated and cushioned.
In a study published in the American journal – Rheumatology International in 2015, Hyaluronic Acid or a placebo were given orally for 3 months to people with knee Osteoarthritis, and the resulted concluded that those who took Hyaluronic Acid had significantly improved pain and motor function as well as less inflammation.
We have had exceptional reports from our customers who have been using joint supplements with Hyaluronic Acid. The best news is that Hyaluronic Acid has no major side effects and has proved to be generally safe, when used at recommended dosage.
If you’re interested in some of our natural joint care products that contain Hyaluronic Acid – click on the pictures below.
Also in Natural Health World Articles
D-Mannose FAQ
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D-mannose is commonly discussed in relation to urinary health, particularly by people who experience recurring urinary discomfort or infections.
It is typically used as a supplement that may support urinary tract health, not as a treatment for an active infection.
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D-mannose is thought to interact with certain types of bacteria, including Escherichia coli, which are commonly associated with urinary tract infections.
It may help reduce the ability of these bacteria to attach to the lining of the urinary tract, allowing them to be flushed out through normal urination.
This is a proposed mechanism and does not apply to all types of urinary issues.
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Some people choose to take D-mannose daily, particularly when managing ongoing or recurring urinary issues.
However, there is no single standard approach, and usage can vary depending on the product and individual circumstances.
If you are considering regular use, it’s a good idea to speak to a healthcare professional to ensure it is appropriate for you.
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D-mannose is generally considered well tolerated for most people when taken as directed. Some individuals may experience mild digestive discomfort, particularly at higher intakes.
If you are pregnant, recovering from surgery, managing a health condition, or taking medication, it’s best to speak to your GP or healthcare professional before use.
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No — D-mannose is not a replacement for antibiotics or medical treatment.
If you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection, it’s important to speak to a GP, as antibiotics may be required.
D-mannose is typically discussed as a self-care option, not a treatment.
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The NHS includes D-mannose as one of several options that people may consider if they experience recurrent urinary tract infections.
It is generally described as a self-care approach rather than a medical treatment, and evidence is still considered limited.
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D-mannose is commonly available in both tablet and powder form.
- Powder can allow more flexible dosing but usually needs mixing
- Tablets are more convenient and easier to take on the go
The best option often depends on personal preference and what fits most easily into your routine.
- Powder can allow more flexible dosing but usually needs mixing
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There is no single agreed dose for D-mannose.
Different products provide different guidance, and some are designed to be taken in smaller amounts throughout the day rather than all at once.
It’s best to follow the instructions on the product you are using and speak to a healthcare professional if you are unsure.
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Recurring urinary tract infections can happen for a variety of reasons, including anatomy, hormonal changes, life stage, sexual activity, and individual susceptibility.
In many cases, there isn’t a single clear cause.
If you experience frequent UTIs, speaking to your GP can help identify any patterns, possible triggers, and appropriate ways to manage them.
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If you are experiencing symptoms such as:
- Burning or pain when urinating
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate
- Lower abdominal discomfort
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
It’s important to seek advice from a healthcare professional.
In many cases, you do not always need to wait for a GP appointment. According to NHS guidance:
- A pharmacist can often provide advice and, in some cases, treatment for uncomplicated UTIs
- If you cannot access your GP, you can also use NHS 111 for urgent advice, either online or by phone
You should seek more urgent advice if:
- Symptoms are new, severe, or getting worse
- You have a high or very low temperature, or feel shivery
- You have pain in your lower back or sides
- You notice blood in your urine
- Symptoms are not improving within a couple of days
If you experience recurrent urinary issues, it can also be helpful to speak to your GP about patterns, possible triggers, and whether there are any preventative or supportive approaches that may be appropriate for you. You may also wish to ask whether options like D-mannose are suitable within your overall care.
While most urinary tract infections are straightforward to treat, they can occasionally lead to more serious complications if left unmanaged. In some cases, UTIs can develop into more serious infections, including sepsis, particularly if the infection spreads to the kidneys or bloodstream
This is one of the reasons why it’s important not to ignore ongoing or recurring symptoms, and to seek medical advice where needed.
For more information, you can also visit the NHS guidance here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-tract-infections-utis/
D-mannose is not a substitute for medical care or prescribed treatment.
- Burning or pain when urinating
