Shark cartilage is the connective tissue that makes up the skeleton of sharks. It is made up of a variety of compounds, including collagen, glycosaminoglycans, and chondroitin sulfate.
A by-product of the shark fishing industry, shark cartilage has been shown to slow or stop angiogenesis. Angiogeneis is the process of developing new blood vessels that deliver nutrients to cells necessary for the growth of tumours. Cartilage is said to have anti-angiogenic properties as it contains substances that inhibit angiogenesis.
What it does
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: Abnormal capillary growth can occur and destroy joint cartilage. Shark cartilage has been shown to block the process of invasion by extra blood vessels and reduce the pain and stiffness associated with the disease.
- Osteoarthritis: This condition often starts with degeneration and thinning of cartilage, subsequent invasion of blood vessels then leads to the cartilage calcifying and breaking up. Reducing this extra blood vessel production can significantly decrease joint inflammation and pain.
- Psoriasis: Shark cartilage may be of benefit when used internally and externally in the treatment of psoriasis, a condition based on extra capillary production.
- Diabetic Retinopathy: In diabetic retinopathy, unwanted, abnormal blood vessels can grow on the back of the vitreous part of the eye, causing loss of sight. Initial research has suggested that shark cartilage may be of benefit.
Potential Uses
| Osteoarthritis | Rheumatoid arthritis | Psoriasis |
| Diabetic retinopathy |
Cautions
There are concerns about the use of shark cartilage supplements due to the over-fishing of sharks, threatening the species.
Do not use during pregnancy or when attempting to conceive
Avoid for at least 6 weeks after deep surgery as wound healing is delayed – check with a doctor.
Anyone who has had a heart attack should avoid shark cartilage for at least 3 weeks – check with a doctor.
What is shark cartilage good for?
Shark cartilage is a popular supplement that is claimed to have a variety of health benefits, including:
- Improved joint health
- Reduced inflammation
- Cancer prevention
- Boosted immune system
- Improved wound healing
However, there is limited scientific evidence to support most of these claims. More research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of shark cartilage for any specific health condition.
Is taking shark cartilage good for you?
There is no clear answer to the question of whether or not taking shark cartilage is good for you. More research is needed to confirm the effectiveness and safety of shark cartilage.
Some studies have shown that shark cartilage may be beneficial for people with osteoarthritis, while other studies have shown no benefit. There is also some evidence that shark cartilage may be effective in preventing or slowing the growth of cancer cells, but more research is needed.
What is the content of shark cartilage?
Shark cartilage is made up of a variety of compounds, including:
- Collagen: Collagen is a protein that is essential for healthy skin, bones, and joints.
- Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs): GAGs are a type of carbohydrate that helps to lubricate and protect joints.
- Chondroitin sulfate: Chondroitin sulfate is a type of GAG that is commonly used to treat osteoarthritis.
- Squalene: Squalene is a compound that is thought to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Can you eat shark cartilage?
Yes, you can eat shark cartilage. It is sometimes sold as a food supplement or used in traditional medicine. However, it is important to note that shark cartilage may contain high levels of mercury, depending on the species of shark and the location where it was caught.
Pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid eating shark cartilage, as mercury can be harmful to the developing fetus.
How much protein is in shark cartilage?
Shark cartilage is a good source of protein. One ounce of shark cartilage contains approximately 10 grams of protein.
