Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsWhat Are GAGs?BenefitsAnti-AgingJoint HealthWeight LossSide EffectsDosageWhat to Look For
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
What Are GAGs?
Benefits
Anti-Aging
Joint Health
Weight Loss
Side Effects
Dosage
What to Look For
Glycosaminoglycans(GAGs)—also known asmucopolysaccharides—play key roles in maintaining your health. This has made it a popular ingredient in anti-aging products. The water-binding molecules support skin health, maintainingcollagenand elastin as well as hydration. They also help to protect joint health and related connective tissues likecartilage.
GAGs are increasingly being studied for their anti-inflammatory role beyond bones and joints. They may play a role in heart health, obesity, kidney function, and more.
GAG supplements that contain glucosamine and chondroitin can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, bloating, drowsiness, and more. An allergic reaction is possible, especially among people who have a shellfish allergy.
This article explains the role of GAG in skin health and skincare products, as well as other conditions. It discusses the research when it comes to glycosaminoglycans, their potential benefits, side effects, and supplements to discuss with your healthcare provider.
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What Are Glycosaminoglycans?
Glycosaminoglycans occur naturally in the body. They are long chains of molecules called unbranchedpolysaccharides, which include:
Glycosaminoglycans play a number of roles in human health, including:
Health Benefits
Glycosaminoglycans may offer evidence-based health benefits. Though, research continues into its uses in skin care treatment, prevention and care of joint health conditions, or even its possible benefits in cancer care.
Anti-Aging Moisturizers With Glycosaminoglycan
Glycosaminoglycans generally decrease in the skin as we age, which is why they are often an ingredient of skincare and anti-aging products.GAGs, along with collagen and elastin, make up thedermis layer of the skinand support its ability to repair scars and prevent wrinkles.
GAGs play an important role in wound healing. Hyaluronic acid is the dominant GAG in the dermal layer, while chondroitin sulfate and dermatan sulfate support the epidermis as wounds heal.
Anti Aging Products and Skin Care
Joint Health and Glycosaminoglycans
GAGs like chondroitin sulfates and hyaluronic acid are commonly used in supplements to treat joint and bone health. Numerous studies focus on their role in osteoarthritis and related conditions, but more study is needed to confirm health benefits.
Research also continues into the benefits of GAGs used in combination with other anti-inflammatory treatments, includingcorticosteroidsand non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Weight Loss and Glycosaminoglycans
Preliminary evidence from animal and human studies suggests GAGs may reduce levels ofleptin, a hormone associated with obesity and weight loss challenges. In clinical trials, one particular supplement—a combination of GAGs—taken daily for 12 weeks lowered leptin levels.
Other studies focus on GAG activity and its effects on certain brain tissues that play a role in obesity and other metabolic conditions, including metabolic syndrome and diabetes.However, more study is needed to understand the role of GAGs in weight loss.
Possible Side Effects
In general, GAG supplements are safe. Hyaluronic acid, for example, is not likely to cause allergic reaction or an immune response when used for skincare, cosmetics, or medical products.
However, as with any supplement, there are potential side effects and risks. People using GAG supplements that containglucosamine and chondroitinmay experience diarrhea and/or abdominal pain.
Other side effects of GAG supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin include:
Allergic reactions (particularly if you have an allergy to shellfish) are possible when taking glucosamine. It also can cause a drug interaction with the blood thinner Jantoven (warfarin).
People who are pregnant or nursing, as well as those diagnosed with prostate cancer or asthma, should avoid chondroitin use and discuss any supplements with a healthcare provider.
Dosage and Preparation
The most popular versions of GAG supplements usually:
Therecommended daily doseis typically 1,500 milligrams (mg) of glucosamine, and 800 to 1,200 mg of chondroitin.
What to Look for in Supplements
There are a number of glycosaminoglycan supplements available on the market. The most popular include the following additional ingredients:
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products and consult a healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist.
How Do I Choose a Supplement?
Summary
Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) occur naturally in the skin, fluid that cushions your joints, cartilage, and more. They play a key role in maintaining skin and joint health, preventing inflammation, and more.
GAGs have been studied for skin health, joint health, and weight management, but researchers also are investigating their potential in managing cancer or a range of metabolic diseases. While the results are promising, more research is needed into the role and function of GAGs.
GAG-based skin care products and joint health supplements are widely available, but be sure to discuss supplement use with your healthcare provider before you begin taking them.
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