The secret of eternal youth....

If there is one supplement I recommend we should all be taking, that would be collagen. As a part of aging, our bodies naturally reduce collagen production in our 20s. Research out there states, that collagen production decreases by 1% a year meaning you want to start taking collagen supplements in your 20s. But if you aren’t taking any collagen and you are in your 30’s, 40’s etc –it is never too late to start introducing 10 to 15 grams of collagen into your daily eating plan.

What is collagen?

It is a type of protein that makes up the structure/framework of your cells and tissues.

Collagen serves as the fundamental foundation for your skin, muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, and various connective tissues. Additionally, it contributes to the structure of your organs, blood vessels, and intestinal lining. Collagen is like the glue that holds your body together!

Types of Collagen:

Type I: Constituting 90% of your body's collagen, Type I is densely packed and contributes to the structure of your skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments.

Type II: Predominantly found in elastic cartilage, Type II collagen provides support for your joints.

Type III: Present in muscles, arteries, and organs, Type III collagen supports their structure and function. Type IV: Located within the layers of your skin, Type IV collagen plays a role in its composition.

Type V: Found in the cornea of your eyes, as well as some skin layers, hair, and placental tissue, Type V collagen contributes to their integrity and function.

There are 4 key benefits of collagen

1.     Luscious Skin: there are endless studies out there showing daily intake of collagen supplements improves skin elasticity, hydration and wrinkles – giving you a radiant glow.

2.     Epic joint and bone health: collagen is a cushion between joints, reducing inflammation and pain. It also helps in strengthening bones; crucial for preventing age-related conditions such as osteoporosis. Studies show bovine (beef) has more collagen type 2 than marine collagen and this is the preferred collagen for someone wanting to repair muscles and joints because type 2 collagen is the type of collagen found in our cartilage.

3.     Lustrous hair and strong nails

4.     Strong digestive Health – amino acids in collagen play a pivotal role in supporting gastric health. Their function involves fortifying and restoring the stomach lining, consequently improving digestion and gastrointestinal concerns. Collagen really does nurture from within.

What to look for in a collagen supplement?

•  The words hydrolysed or peptides on the labels because it is more bioavailable meaning your body can absorb and access the benefits of collagen more easily.

• Look for key antioxidant ingredients like vitamin C to support collagen protection and production from within.

• Bovine collagen: look out for grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine, free of antibiotics and hormones.

• Marine collagen: look for a product using wild-caught fish, non-GMO, free from artificial flavours

Top 3 Collagen Supplements:

1. Nutri-Vital Boasts hydrolyzed marine collagen peptides, along with green tea extract, astaxanthin esters, and acerola—naturally rich in vitamin C. These components support skin health by maintaining collagen density, hydration, and elasticity for vibrant skin.

2. Nutraviva Collagen Hydrolysate Powder

Nutraviva Collagen Hydrolysate Powder is a top-tier, grass-fed collagen protein supplement. It comprises 100% natural, unblended, and unflavored hydrolyzed collagen peptides. With smaller pre-digested peptides, it ensures rapid absorption by the body, optimizing nutrient delivery to cells. This enhanced bioavailability makes it a perfect choice for both health and beauty nutrition purposes.

3. Whole Body Collagen by Designs for Health

1. It is 100% Bovine collagen peptides and contains 3 clinically studied collagen peptides-Fortigel, Fortibone & Veriso known to support healthy connective tissue building, muscle repair and bone health