Shark cartilage: Properties and benefits for joint health

Melanie Ramos 6 min. of reading Joint Health 1 Comment

Shark cartilage is a natural substance containing protein, complex carbohydrates, calcium, phosphorus, collagen and chondroitin sulphate, among other nutrients, which gives it numerous properties.
Shark cartilage protects joints, helps to generate synovial fluid and lubricate joints, and is effective in preventing inflammation and joint pain.
Shark cartilage may be beneficial in preventing joint injuries in athletes and in treating rheumatic diseases.
Shark cartilage comes in different forms on the market, such as capsules, creams and oil. The creams contain hyaluronic acid and are anti-inflammatory, while the oil is used to stimulate the immune system.

Shark cartilage is a natural substance that forms the skeleton of sharks, giving them flexibility and allowing them to move quickly. In Asia it has been used for centuries as a source of protein and other substances.

Shark cartilage has been shown to contain protein, complex carbohydrates, calcium, phosphorus, collagen and chondroitin sulphate, among other nutrients, giving it anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

It is especially recommended for people with joint problems (rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, wear and tear…). Many high-performance athletes use it to keep their joints in perfect condition, thus avoiding unwanted injuries. So far there is no doubt, but did you know that these products are also good for your general health?

Shark cartilage properties

You have probably heard some talk about what it is used for or whether it is really effective. Let’s try to shed some light on the uses for which its effects have been proven to be most beneficial.

1. It protects the joints

Shark cartilage is effective in preventing joint inflammation and pain, by helping to generate synovial fluid and lubricate joints. Synovial fluid acts as a cushion between joints, and regular exercise helps to distribute it evenly.

There are around 200 rheumatic diseases, which affect approximately four million people in Spain, being more common in people over the age of 50. Shark cartilage may be beneficial in preventing joint injuries in athletes and in treating rheumatic diseases.

It contains vitamin C, which supports optimal collagen formation for normal cartilage function, and magnesium and manganese for the maintenance of normal bones.

2. It strengthens the immune system

Its high calcium and protein content means that the intake of shark cartilage products helps to strengthen the bone system in a natural way. In this respect, it is very useful for treating serious and degenerative bone conditions such as osteoporosis.

In addition, its protein content has a positive effect on the immune system, preventing viral diseases that are present in the environment.

3. It helps to take care of asthma, emphysema or haemorrhoids.

The aforementioned pathologies are generally related to molecular changes in the tissues of the affected organs. This is where shark cartilage comes into play. In this line, the glycosaminoglycans included in its composition allow tissues of all kinds to regenerate, preventing deformities and even chronic diseases, as we have seen previously.

4. It reduces psoriasis

The products in question help to reduce psoriasis, a disease caused by the abnormal formation of blood vessels in the skin. Studies and research show that taking this supplement normalises the growth of blood vessels, preventing excessive enlargement.

5. It prevents diseases

Scientific studies have pointed in the direction that the shark cartilage product helps to slow down the development of some types of cancerous tumours.

Given the importance of the information provided, it should be noted that there is no evidence that attests one hundred per cent to the benefits or favourable elements of its intervention in cancer treatment.

On the contrary, what has been proven is its beneficial intervention in the treatment of people with a high probability of suffering from some type of cancerous tumour.

This suggests that shark cartilage could be effective in people who show a genetic predisposition or a latent risk of developing cancer due to external factors. In this context, its specific function would be to slow down the development of cancer cells, while protecting healthy tissues and reducing tumours.

How to take Shark Cartilage

Shark cartilage comes in different forms on the market, such as capsules, creams and oil. The creams contain hyaluronic acid and are anti-inflammatory, while the oil is used to stimulate the immune system and treat illnesses such as flu and colds.

How it is taken depends on the intended purpose and it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Who can take these products?

We have previously seen in which cases the intake of shark cartilage is recommended. Now, it is time to find out which people are interested in taking these products, apart from athletes.

Shark cartilage for people with…