Enhanced collagen has been a popular ‘go to’ in the heath food industry for some time now. With so many claims to healing qualities such as improved skin health, relief from joint pain and supporting heart health, this super food is a staple in many people’s lives. Individuals are noticing significant results internally and externally from adding this simple protein into their daily routine.

So, what exactly is collagen?

Let's start at the bottom and build up.

You may have heard of amino acids, amino acids are these small building blocks that when added together, create protein. Common amino acids such as lysine, glutamine, and tryptophan play specific roles all around the body. For example, tryptophan helps us build serotonin, our ‘happy hormone’. When you string together a series of different amino acids, we get protein. Protein is needed for growth, repair, immune system support and all-around structural support.

Collagen is a type of protein.

Amino acids that make up collagen are arginine, glycine, glutamine, hydroxyproline and more. The amino acid content in collagen directly influences proper building and growing. Our bodies are made up of collagen. Collagen makes up most of our skin, tendons, ligaments and muscles. We can find collagen in our bones for strength, as well as in the walls of our arteries for that elastic stretch with blood pressure change. Collagen is abundant in the human body.

Why do people take collagen?

When we take a collagen product, we may notice a difference in how fast our hair or nails grow.  Some individuals notice a difference in their skin such as less breakouts or more tightness and reduced fine lines. When we see the effects of collagen working at such a superficial level, it is easy to understand and recognize the internal healing qualities and benefits, the skin rejuvenation is really just a fantastic bonus!

There are numerous reasons to take collagen.  Below are just a few reasons why more and more individuals choose to supplement with this superfood.

Supporting the aging process;

Aging, stress and activity all require adequate amounts of protein in an individual’s diet.  Out of all of the macronutrients, (carbohydrates, fats and proteins), protein seems to be the most lacking in the North American diet. When there is not enough protein in the diet, body tissues break down faster, the aging process speeds up and we are not able to recovery as quickly as we should.   

Our immune system needs protein to function;

If you tend to get sick often, you should consider increasing the amount of protein in your diet to help build immunity.  The amino acids found in collagen will directly increase the number of immune cells that help you stay healthy by combating bacteria and viruses.  The protein that makes up collagen is similar to that of a bone broth- hence the reason one should consume bone broth or collagen when sick to aid in quicker recovery time. 

Joint health;

Collagen protein directly contributes to the health of our joints. As we age, train and move, our joints become stressed. It is important to take care of our joints with rest, recovery and proper nutrition. Daily consumption of a collagen supplementation can contribute to the integrity and structure of joints.

Graceful aging

There are many factors that contribute to an overall youthful look.  Staying hydrated and consuming healthy fats is key when it comes to the beauty of your skin.  Adding a collagen supplement daily will contribute to the growth of collagen all around your body, noticeably the skin. Collagen is responsible for the elasticity and integrity of our skin.  The timeline for results can vary for each individual with anywhere from 3 weeks to 3 months, but at the end of the day the results you will receive by adding this simple supplement to your diet is so very worth whatever the wait time!

Adding a clean and ethically sourced collagen to your daily health regime can pay off in big ways.  One scoop offers 8g of protein which will contribute nicely to your daily protein needs. A good collagen will easily dissolve in any hot or cold beverage and can be a great add to any home cooking such as soups, stews, homemade granola bars or even cookies.  Consistently adding this superfood to your daily routine may pay off in big ways!

Be happy, be healthy

Dr. Amy Wilson, ND