What is shark cartilage?

Cartilage is an elastic and tough connective tissue that is part of the structure of some parts of the body. Shark cartilage has become the subject of much study and research.

This is due to the nutrients and other substances that shark cartilage has in its composition. Shark cartilage is beneficial in preventing bone disorders, maintains healthy joints, tendons and ligaments and stimulates collagen production.

Shark cartilage contains many substances that are beneficial to the human body. It is rich in vitamins and minerals such as zinc, iron, potassium and B-complex vitamins.

Shark cartilage also contains collagen, the protein responsible for the firmness and elasticity of the skin and the protection of joints. Three other important substances that are part of the structure of shark cartilage are glucosamine, chondroitin and anti-angiogenic proteins.

Glucosamine is a compound found in the structure of cartilage and joints and is responsible for maintaining their health. Taken as a supplement, it has natural anti-inflammatory effects, helping to relieve joint pain.

Chondroitin is also a compound found in the cartilage around the joints. This substance is very effective in reducing joint pain. In supplement form, it is recommended to take it together with glucosamine for increased effect.

Anti-angiogenic proteins are substances that are thought to be effective anti-carcinogens. These proteins inhibit the creation of new blood vessels with which tumours feed, and are beneficial in preventing cancer.

 

Benefits of shark cartilage

Find out below what benefits shark cartilage brings to the body and what uses it has when it comes to maintaining health.
 

• Protects bones, joints, tendons, ligaments and cartilage

The main benefit of taking shark cartilage supplements is undoubtedly to maintain the health of the bone and joint system. This is due to its rich mineral, collagen, glucosamine and chondroitin content.  Shark cartilage is recommended in the treatment of certain joint and bone conditions such as rheumatism, arthritis, arthrosis and osteoporosis.
 

• It has anti-tumour properties

Due to the rich content of anti-angiogenic proteins in the structure of shark cartilage, it is considered an adjuvant with great potential to inhibit cancerous tumours. Shark cartilage may be useful in fighting cancer caused by tumours that need new blood vessel systems to survive.
 

• Strengthens the immune system

The rich vitamin and mineral content of shark cartilage helps to maintain a strong immune system. Shark cartilage also greatly reduces the risk of autoimmune diseases.
 

• Helps improve eyesight

Several studies show that taking an extract of shark cartilage for 24 weeks led to improved vision in people suffering from age-related macular degeneration.
 

• Indicated in cases of diabetes

Shark cartilage can also be used in people suffering from diabetes, as experts point out that the supplement can prevent diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes that leads to retinal damage and therefore impaired vision.
 

• Relieves psoriasis symptoms

Some research suggests that a certain shark cartilage extract helps improve the appearance of the skin in people with psoriasis and reduces the itching associated with the condition, when taken orally or applied directly to the skin.
 

• Indicated in case of viral or bacterial infections

Shark cartilage has antiviral and antibacterial properties and is recommended for combating viral and bacterial infections. In addition to shark cartilage supplementation, it is also recommended to adopt a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and sufficient rest, to allow the body to recover more quickly when fighting a virus or bacteria.
 

• Good remedy for male infertility

Using a shark cartilage-based supplement helps remove heavy metals from the body and artificial oestrogens, two factors that often lead to male infertility. In the case of oligospermia (low sperm count) and asthenospermia (non-calcified sperm) it is recommended to take shark cartilage together with vitamin E.

Shark cartilage also helps stimulate collagen production, supports nail health and gives hair strength.