Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the body and is found primarily in the eyes and joints, but it is also found throughout the body in connective tissue. Because hyaluronic acid is produced by the body, it isn't considered an essential nutrient, although low levels can lead to osteoarthritic joints. Hyaluronic acid is present in certain foods---but not many---and eating these foods can encourage the body to make additional hyaluronic acid.
Root Vegetables
Starches in root vegetables encourage the production of hyaluronic acid in the body. ABC News did a study entitled "The Village of Long Life: Could Hyaluronic Acid Be an Anti-Aging Remedy?" about the village of Yuzuri Hara, which is about two hours outside of Tokyo. This region is hilly and grows root vegetables (one like a sweet potato, one like a white potato and an edible potato root) instead of rice. The study showed that the people of Yuzuri Hara live about 10 years longer than the average American and are not affected by cancer, diabetes or Alzheimer's, and, despite not using sunscreen and spending a lot of time outdoors, their skin stays remarkably young in appearance and texture.
Animal Parts
Joints and cartilage from animals contain large amounts of hyaluronic acid, although few people want to eat those parts. As a more palatable alternative, a broth can be made from animal joints and cartilage and used as a soup.
Soy
Soy protein contains isoflavones that mimic the production of estrogen, which encourages hyaluronic acid production. Fermented soy---such as the miso and tempeh that are eaten in China and Japan---are the best sources of soy because unfermented soy contains phylates, which prevent proper absorption of certain nutrients.
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