Shark cartilage has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, but today it's widely available as a modern supplement. Made from the structural framework of sharks, this supplement is prized for its potential benefits in supporting joint health, cartilage maintenance, and overall inflammation reduction. As a natural source of structural proteins like collagen, these supplements are often explored for joint flexibility and mobility. While scientific evidence is mixed, many use these supplements as part of a holistic approach to joint and connective tissue support.
Past Research
Past research on shark cartilage has explored its potential benefits, particularly in reducing inflammation and supporting joint health. Some studies suggest that certain compounds in shark cartilage, such as mucopolysaccharides, may help reduce joint pain and stiffness.
While some shark populations are declining, it's important to acknowledge that shark cartilage extraction differentiates from shark fin extraction, which typically involves removing fins and discarding the rest of the shark. Causing concern for sharks' welfare and population decline. These supplements are generally sourced from the entire shark, often as a byproduct of the fishing industry.
Key Health Benefits of Shark Cartilage
Arthritis Support
Today, the majority of these supplements are aimed at arthritis and joint health. Shark cartilage is made up, in large part, of calcium, obviously an important component of bone health. Another major constituent of shark cartilage are what are known as mucopolysaccharides (or Glycosaminoglycans) such as chondroitin sulfate. Chondroitin sulfate is a major player in maintaining the structural foundation of the body, specifically responsible for the 'resistance to compression' properties of cartilage.
How Does Shark Cartilage Work in The Body?
Cartilage is the shock absorber of the body, cushioning and protecting bone from damage. As we age, the human body is unable to regenerate damaged soft tissue (due to injury or everyday wear and tear) fast enough to keep cartilage, ligaments and tendons from deterioration. Over time, this deterioration can cause bone-on-bone articulations, leading to inflammation and pain. This is why supplementation is often recommended, to provide the body with the nutrients, primarily minerals that are typically lacking in high enough quantities from diet alone, to support the integrity of cartilage and joints.
Shopping For Shark Cartilage Supplements
The average recommended daily dosage is approximately 9000 mg/day. Most companies recommend this dosage for a minimum of 30 days, lowering the dosage to about half this for maintenance from that point on. Shark cartilage can be found as a supplement in either powder or capsule form, commonly found in a 750 mg/capsule dosage. Do not take this if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you already have high blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia). Although this supplement is very safe for most individuals, some side effects, such as nausea/vomiting, constipation, dizziness, low blood pressure, and high blood sugar, have been reported.
