Most joint supplements use two common ingredients: glucosamine and chondroitin. Unfortunately for vegetarians, these joint-healthy ingredients are derived from shark and cow cartilage, making it difficult to find a suitable pain-relieving product. Hyaluronic Acid with MSM, however, claims to be a joint supplement that will supposedly increase mobility and flexibility by stimulating the production of synovial fluid.

When we see a vegetarian-friendly formula that does not include either glucosamine or chondroitin it its active ingredients, we can’t help be suspicious of the product’s claims to fame. Although NOW Foods has been producing fresh and reliable formulas for years, we can’t help but wonder if they really managed to create an effective joint supplement or if they’re simply trying to pull the wool over our eyes.

Understanding Hyaluronic Acid

NOW’s vegetarian-friendly formula focuses primarily on the effects of Hyaluronic Acid, a polysaccharide molecule which helps to stimulate the production of collagen throughout the body. Generally speaking, Hyaluronic Acid is a popular ingredient for facial creams and cosmetics due to its ability to keep skin elastic and smooth.

However, Hyaluronic Acid also supports connective tissues and cartilage by binding with water, increasing cellular fluidity and adding cushion between joints. This high-viscosity polymer helps protect joints from damage by increasing the production of synovial fluid (a natural joint lubricating substance) while aiding in the repair of damaged tissues and cartilage.

Pros of Hyaluronic Acid with MSM

Many consumers are looking for individualized products that suits their dietary needs, and unlike many mass-marketing manufacturers, NOW Foods has made it their goal to supply consumers with products that encourage healthier living. Hyaluronic Acid with MSM is a vegetarian-friendly alternative that doesn’t include potentially allergenic ingredients such as milk, eggs, yeast, or gluten.

Cons of Hyaluronic Acid with MSM

Unfortunately, the joint supplement doesn’t provide the immediate soothing relief that topical creams can offer. Healing and repairing joints through a dietary supplement takes time, sometimes days or even weeks before producing any noticeable results.

Conclusion

Although Hyaluronic Acid with MSM lacks the popular ingredients Glucosamine and Chondroitin, it doesn’t mean that this product is an ineffective investment. NOW Foods set out to create a vegetarian alternative to joint supplements, and it succeeded in providing us with joint pain relief. Many customers can attest that Hyaluronic Acid with MSM has helped them to relieve arthritis and similar joint ailments, and it may just work for you as well.

Don’t expect to pain-free mobility and flexibility from day 1, however. This dietary supplement works from the inside out, healing and repairing damaged joints while protecting against future damage. The ingredients in Hyaluronic Acid with MSM are effective but gentle, and it may take time before you can fully heal. Until then, you may wish to purchase a topical cream for instant relief or consider finding a more powerful formula.