Shark cartilage is supplement made from the dried cartilage of a shark. The supplement is marketed to have many health benefits. However, no scientific evidence exists that agrees with this theory.
The shark cartilage craze has led people to overkill the animal for its cartilage, which has led to a rapid decline in the shark population.
Dherbs does not agree with shark cartilage and its uses. Until further scientific studies are done to back up medical claims, we feel it is best to only take supplements that are beneficial to the body.
No supplement cures disease. Natural substances can only help with symptoms or in maintaining overall health.
The Shark Cartilage Claim
Shark cartilage has been touted to have many health benefits, but the most profound is the claim that the supplement aids in the prevention of cancer. There is no evidence supporting this claim. The claim began with the notion that sharks cannot get cancer. Again, this is false.
Dr. William Lane is responsible for the shark cartilage frenzy in the alternative health field. In 1992, Dr. Lane wrote a book titled “Sharks Don’t Get Cancer”. This was the beginning of the shark cartilage craze.
In 2011, Americans spent nearly $3 million on supplements containing shark cartilage. Although many reputable sources have thrown out the benefits of shark cartilage, people are still buying it.
The claim shark cartilage offers of cancer prevention are false. More scientific evidence needs to be published to verify these claims. Little research has been done into any benefits besides cancer prevention.
Shark Cartilage Side Effects
Possible side effects of shark cartilage include:
- Low blood pressure
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Bad taste in the mouth
- High blood sugar
- Fatigue
- High Calcium levels
You should avoid taking shark cartilage if you currently experience high Calcium levels. The supplement could increase levels even further causing additional complications.
Whether or not the supplement is safe for pregnant women is a possibility. Some reports claim that shark cartilage can be taken during pregnancy, but it is safest to air on the side of caution. Taking any drugs or supplements that are not 100% beneficial to the body while pregnant is a risk.
Dherbs Solutions
Dherbs.com offers many different natural formulas that can assist in maintaining overall health and wellbeing. Leading a healthy lifestyle and taking care of your body is the first step in wellness.
Thank you for reading!
This article is compliments of Dherbs.com.
Vincent Stevens is the senior content writer at Dherbs. As a fitness and health and wellness enthusiast, he enjoys covering a variety of topics, including the latest health, fitness, beauty, and lifestyle trends. His goal is to inform people of different ways they can improve their overall health, which aligns with Dherbs’ core values. He received his bachelor’s degree in creative writing from the University of Redlands, graduating summa cum laude. He lives in Los Angeles, CA.
