Collagen and youth go hand in hand. Did you know that collagen is the most abundant macro in our body? It is the glue that binds our joints together and as we age, our own collagen isn’t as efficient and doesn’t work as well. This is where the visible signs of aging begin. Starting in our 20s, we begin losing about 1 percent of our collagen each year. This is what causes those fine lines and less elasticity. Even stiff joints are a sign that the body is producing less collagen. This is a natural occurrence of the maturing process for both women and men. Excessive exposure to sun, sugar and smoking may accelerate the collagen breakdown. So, living a healthy lifestyle is beneficial for slowing down this process.
As an aging female, I have noticed the effects of decreasing collagen changes occurring in my own skin. Because of this, I have spent the past couple of months researching what collagen is, the various types and why our bodies need it and have been trying to educate myself. Below are a few of my findings that support this supplement, as well as debunk some of what it does.
- Collagen is a protein your body makes naturally. It makes up about a third of all of the protein in your body.
- Collagen supplements may be taken to ease joint pains and to help plump skin.
- Collagen supplements do not contribute to healing skin issues, such as eczema or to aid weight loss.
- Skin creams with synthetic collagen do not help with collagen production.
- Certain healthy foods can help produce collagen. Examples are: fish, nuts, beans, etc.
- Collagen supplements are generally safe.
Recently, I was introduced to a collagen elixir by Isagenix. It is infused with an innovative blend of marine collagen peptides and powerful botanicals. In order to feel good about what I was putting in my body, I needed to know more. My findings were overwhelmingly favorable. The Isagenix Elixir took 10 years of research and 200 scientists to develop the end product. Collagen Elixir™ is a Type 1 marine collagen (vs. type 2 found in a lot of competitor products like bovine, chicken, and pork). Marine collagen, more than others, mimics human collagen and is more effective in beauty boosting benefits. Marine collagen is also 1.5X more bioavailable than other collagen. I was surprised to discover that one small bottle contains 5000 mg of marine collagen harvested onsite in a sustainable fishery on the Norwegian coast.
As if this were not enough, this little bottle also contains stable Vitamin C, zinc, and biotin, as well as other fruits and botanicals rich in antioxidants to preserve the collagen we already have.
Until recently, collagen was only offered in the forms of tablets, powders and creams. The Collagen Elixir is a liquid that has a marine collagen blend, (responsibly wild caught cod, pollock and haddock) and a proprietary blend with no added sugar. I was a bit skeptical about this, however, I am one to try something once, see how it goes and then decide. I admit I really can tell a difference, not only in my skin, but in my nails, as well. For years, I wore acrylic nails and gel nails. Over the years, I have become allergic to the chemicals and am no longer able to wear this type of nail. When the fakes were no longer an option for me, my original nails were thin and papery. I am fortunate to have never had “hair” issues, so I really wanted to see if collagen would help my nails. Additionally, I have noticed myself getting the “neck drop” that women often get as they age. I thought this supplement may also help that. I have been pleasantly surprised and have experienced positive results in both areas.
If you are wondering about collagen supplements, after my findings, I support them. I realize the science is not 100% yet, but since I have seen a difference for myself, I am a believer. There are many different kinds of collagen, so it is important to find the one that works for you. I have tried both powder and now the liquid and have had far better and quicker results with the liquid.
I could go on, but I think you see my point. I am a believer in the collagen supplement and will continue to include it in my daily routine. It is my collagen of choice.
Hugs – Grace And Aging
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