Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs)—also known as mucopolysaccharides—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, maintaining collagen and elastin as well as hydration. They also help to protect joint health and related connective tissues like cartilage.
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 unbranched polysaccharides, which include:
- Hyaluronic acid, found in the skin, synovial fluid of the joints, and eye fluids
- Chondroitin sulfates, found primarily in joint cartilage and affecting joint health
- Dermatan sulfates like endocan, which can play a role in inflammation-related and metabolic diseases, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Keratan sulfates, found in many tissue types, but notably in eyes, skin, and cartilage
- Heparan sulfates, which may play a key role in bone health and dental health
Glycosaminoglycans play a number of roles in human health, including:
- Angiogenesis (how blood vessels multiply, often when supporting cancer cells)
- Inflammation
- Wound healing
- Neurogenesis (how neurons form in the brain and nervous system)
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.
Supplement use should be individualized and vetted by a healthcare professional, such as aregistered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), pharmacist, or healthcare provider. No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
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 the dermis layer of the skin and 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, including corticosteroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Weight Loss and Glycosaminoglycans
Preliminary evidence from animal and human studies suggests GAGs may reduce levels of leptin, 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 contain glucosamine and chondroitin may experience diarrhea and/or abdominal pain.
Other side effects of GAG supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin include:
- Drowsiness
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Heartburn
- Headaches
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 ofGAG supplementsusually:
- Come in capsule or tablet form
- Contain glucosamine and chondroitin
The recommended daily dose is 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:
- Glucosamine sulfate: One of the most widely available dietary supplements, it is popularly used to help reduce inflammation and joint pain and boost collagen production in the body.
- Chondroitin sulfate: One of the building blocks of cartilage, it may help slow the breakdown and reduce arthritis pain.
- Hyaluronic acid: This is most popular in skincare products to help with anti-aging, scar, and wrinkle-reducing, and increase moisture on the face and eyes.
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. When choosing 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.
