Shark Cartilage Supplements: Good or Bad?
by Joshua Soll
Shark cartilage supplements are the snake oil of the 21st century
By now, you are probably aware of the dangers of the shark meat industry both to shark populations and to humans, but what about shark cartilage? Are certain parts of sharks safer or even beneficial for humans to consume? The answer is no. Shark products are neither safe nor beneficial for humans to consume.
Companies that sell shark cartilage make it seem like a cure-all, with claims that it helps fight cancer and treats osteoarthritis, plaque psoriasis, inflammation, age-related vision loss, damage to the eyes caused by diabetes, and even plays a role in wound healing. There is clear evidence that such supplements do not treat these conditions and may even exacerbate some of them.
While shark cartilage is alleged to treat inflammation caused by conditions such as arthritis or irritable bowel syndrome, some studies have actually found it to cause inflammation, potentially leading to further health risks to people. Toxins have also been found in these products. In one study that tested the composition of 16 different shark cartilage supplements, 15 contained BMAA, a neurotoxin that can be very harmful to human health. Two additional studies found low amounts of mercury in these supplements. Even though low levels of mercury are not likely to cause harm to the human body, people may reach or surpass the daily recommended intake of mercury when taking these supplements in conjunction with a regular diet that contains some mercury.
Claims that shark cartilage can treat cancer has floated around for decades. So, does this claim have merit? The again answer is no! Some literature has stated that shark cartilage can lead to improved immune response to cancer, thus treating it, but such information is scarce. Consuming shark cartilage does not treat or cure cancer. This claim originated because it was thought that sharks do not get cancer, but that has also been disproven, sharks do in fact get cancer, too.
The general consensus in the scientific field is that shark cartilage supplements are unsafe to consume and do not treat the aforementioned health conditions. Even if they had some beneficial properties, the risks clearly outweigh the benefits, and such properties that improve human health can be pursued from other safer sources. In addition to lack of benefit in humans, harvesting shark cartilage for human or animal use is harmful to shark populations globally.
Actionable Items:
Ask your veterinarian about the appropriateness of joint supplement use and specific recommendations for your pet.
Avoid shark cartilage as an ingredient in pet foods and supplements.
Consult your veterinarian to ensure you’re providing a well balanced diet for your pet in their current life stage i.e. kitten/puppy vs. adult vs. senior vs. geriatric.