Articles
3 change-of-season flu & virus toolkits
We are now officially entering a change of season world wide – either going into Autumn or Spring, depending in which hemisphere you live. Even the healthiest people seem to fall prey to the sniffles, respiratory and gut viruses, and a host of other miseries at this time of year. Gut bugs, body aches, headaches, ear aches, sore throats and even old viruses like Shingles can spring up at this time of year. Be prepared! We want to give you a basic “Change of Season Toolkit” here – in fact THREE toolkits – one for staying healthy, and another one for IF/WHEN the virus/flu hits to scare it off, and a third for if it ‘gets’ you. So we’re sharing what we do personally. 1. Remaining healthy Vitamin C. We recommend Scorbi-Cee, Super Cee or EsterVit C. We like both Super Cee and Scorbi-Cee powders because you can stir them into water and sip these throughout the day. Squeeze an orange in if you don’t like the tartness. Put 2-3 spoons into 1-2 litres, and sip this all day. MaxiProbiotic 20. If you like capsules, MaxiProbiotic is great. Ensure you take them every day to keep your gut healthy. 1000iu of Vitamin D3 tablets or drops daily This will “hold” a healthy person during even the worst seasonal changes. Don’t forget to eat well!! 2. When you feel like you’re starting to get sick: Ok, so you didn’t dodge the bugs, and you have a scratchy throat, headache etc. The MOMENT this starts, HIT IT HARD so that it will last only a few hours to a few days and not drag on for weeks or months as it can do! We all know what fun that can be…. INCREASE your Vitamin C to 4-5 times or more the dose you are used to. We take 1-2 grams every hour for as long as we feel bad, and then add one more day before dialling it down to 2-4g a day. Continue using your MaxiProbiotic 20. This kills bugs in the gut where they take hold. You can dramatically increase your vitamin D3 for a few days to a week, particularly if your levels are very low. Take 2-4 a day for several days – a powerful immune stimulant. Then revert to one a day when feeling better. Berberine Complex – not only is this brilliant for blood sugar control, but what many people don’t know is that it is a natural antibiotic too! This will prevent opportunistic bacteria from causing a secondary infection. Take one a day 3. If the ‘lurgy’ gets you and you’re now sick: Continue on Vitamin C at a high dose. (In fact as much of the above regimen as you can afford and/or stand) It’s always good to jump in as fast as you can of course – the sooner you start treating yourself the better it will be. Add Olive Leaf Extract 2 caps 3 x a day MaxiProbiotic – take twice as much for a week Bone broths now are important – drink all day and remain hydrated Try to stay quiet and rest during this time – DO NOT EXERCISE as you can damage your heart valves. Wait till you are better.
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What is an immune system?
The immune system has a vital role to play. It protects your body from harmful substances, germs and cell changes that could make you ill, and is made up of various organs, cells, and proteins. If your immune system is running smoothly, you don’t even notice that it’s there! Without an immune system, we would have no way to fight harmful things that enter our body from the outside or harmful changes that occur inside our body. Some germs, like chickenpox, will only make you sick the first time you encounter them. Others come back often, causing our bodies to keep fighting them off. We’re looking at you, rhinovirus!! This is where our immune system comes in. The main task of the body’s immune system is to fight disease-causing germs (pathogens) like bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi, and to remove them from the body. It also recognises and neutralises harmful substances from the environment, and fights disease-causing changes in the body, such as cancer cells. The immune system is usually activated by things that the body doesn’t recognize as its own—antigens. Examples of antigens include the proteins on the surfaces of bacteria, fungi and viruses. When these antigens attach to special receptors on the immune system cells, a whole series of processes are triggered in the body. Once the body has met a disease-causing germ for the first time, it usually stores information about the germ and how to fight it. Then, if it comes into contact with the germ again, it recognizes the germ straight away and can start fighting it faster. The body’s own cells have proteins on their surface, too. But those proteins don’t usually trigger the immune system to fight the cells. Sometimes the immune system mistakenly thinks that the body’s own cells are foreign cells. It then attacks healthy, harmless cells in the body. This is known as an autoimmune response. There are two subsystems within the immune system, known as the innate (non-specific) immune system and the adaptive (specific) immune system. Both subsystems are closely linked and work together whenever a germ or harmful substance triggers an immune response. The innate immune system provides a general defence against harmful germs and substances, so it’s also called the non-specific immune system. It mostly fights using immune cells such as natural killer cells and phagocytes (“eating cells”). The main job of the innate immune system is to fight harmful substances and germs that enter the body, for instance through the skin or digestive system. The adaptive immune system makes antibodies and uses them to specifically fight certain germs that the body has previously come into contact with. This is also known as an “acquired” (learned) or specific immune response. The immune system stands as the guardian of our health, defending our bodies against an array of threats. From the smallest invading pathogens to the insidious changes within, it stands ready to neutralize and eliminate anything that could harm us. The intricate interplay of organs, cells, and proteins orchestrates a symphony of defence mechanisms, ensuring our well-being even in the face of novel challenges. Through the innate and adaptive subsystems, it adapts and learns, building a repository of knowledge to confront future threats with swiftness and precision. Without this complex and vigilant system, our bodies would be defenceless against the constant barrage of dangers from within and without. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279364/#:~:text=The%20immune%20system%20has%20a,t%20notice%20that%20it’s%20there.
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What is MagnaFizz?
Do your days sometimes need a little pep in their step? Today’s world has us running at a million kilometres an hour. Between getting the kids to school, working from home, and modern life in general, most of us need an extra bit of energy in the mornings. While coffee is a good way to get our minds working after a good night’s sleep, we wanted to find a natural source of energy to give our bodies the boost they need to perform optimally. That’s how we developed MagnaFizz. This innovative effervescent uses the power of magnesium citrate for a refreshing and fizzy energy boost. Not only is it a great way to start the day, it’s also perfect for that post-lunch slump when you need that extra help to get to the end of the day. Let’s dive into the details, exploring how it boosts your energy levels and elevates your morning routine. Magnesium Citrate: The body’s silent guardian Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a pivotal role in countless bodily functions, ranging from muscle and nerve function to blood sugar regulation and bone health. Magnesium citrate, a highly bioavailable form of magnesium, ensures efficient absorption and utilisation within the body. By supplementing with magnesium citrate, individuals can experience a plethora of benefits: Enhanced muscle function: Magnesium supports muscle relaxation and contraction, aiding in the prevention of cramps and spasms. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts take it for improved performance and reduced post-exercise soreness. Stress relief: Magnesium has been shown to modulate the body’s stress response by regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin. Incorporating magnesium citrate into one’s routine can promote relaxation and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and stress. Improved sleep quality: Magnesium plays a crucial role in the regulation of the sleep-wake cycle. By promoting relaxation and calming the nervous system, magnesium citrate can enhance sleep quality and duration, leading to more restful nights and increased daytime vitality. Heart health: Magnesium supports cardiovascular health by regulating blood pressure and maintaining normal heart rhythm. Regular consumption of magnesium citrate may reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, promoting longevity and vitality. Citric Acid: Nature’s natural cleanser and energiser Derived from citrus fruits, citric acid serves as more than just a flavour enhancer—it boasts a plethora of health benefits: Alkalizing properties: Despite its acidic nature, citric acid has an alkalizing effect on the body once metabolised. This helps balance pH levels, counteracting the acidity caused by modern diets and promoting overall wellness. Detoxification: Citric acid aids in the detoxification process by supporting liver function and enhancing the body’s natural cleansing mechanisms. Regular consumption of citric acid can assist in the elimination of toxins and waste products, promoting vibrant health from within. Energy boost: Citric acid plays a vital role in the Krebs cycle, a key metabolic pathway responsible for energy production. By facilitating the conversion of nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the body’s primary energy currency, citric acid helps combat fatigue and promote sustained vitality throughout the day. Sodium Bicarbonate: The pH balancer and digestive aid Sodium bicarbonate offers a multitude of benefits for digestive health and pH balance: Acid neutralisation: Sodium bicarbonate acts as a potent antacid, neutralising excess stomach acid and alleviating symptoms of heartburn, indigestion, and acid reflux. By restoring optimal pH levels, sodium bicarbonate promotes digestive comfort and soothes gastrointestinal distress. Alleviation of exercise-induced lactic acidosis: During intense physical activity, the muscles produce lactic acid, leading to fatigue and discomfort. Sodium bicarbonate supplementation has been shown to buffer the effects of lactic acidosis, delaying the onset of fatigue and enhancing exercise performance. Regulation of gut microbiota: Sodium bicarbonate creates a favourable environment for beneficial gut bacteria, fostering a healthy microbiome and supporting optimal digestion and nutrient absorption. By promoting microbial balance, sodium bicarbonate contributes to overall gastrointestinal health and immune function. Effervescent drinks are wonderful. Not only do we all love watching them fizz (let’s be honest) but because of that fizz, everything gets properly mixed and distributed, so there’s nothing left in your glass when you’ve finished. Effervescence offers these advantages: Enhanced absorption: The effervescent formulation promotes rapid dissolution and absorption of key nutrients, ensuring maximum bioavailability and efficacy. Convenient administration: Simply mix the powder with water to create a refreshing, fizzy beverage, making it easy and enjoyable to incorporate into daily routines. Gentle on the stomach: Unlike traditional tablets or capsules, the effervescent form reduces the risk of gastric irritation and discomfort, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive stomachs. Dosage freedom: The powdered format allows for flexible dosing, empowering individuals to tailor their intake based on individual needs and preferences. So there you have it. MagnaFizz’s blend of natural ingredients is tailor-made for our bodies. It’ll boost your energy levels in a healthy and sustainable way, not with unhealthy sugars or caffeine. Now go out and conquer your day!
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Do you suffer from alopecia?
Losing one’s hair due to alopecia is a scary and often shameful experience. First off, there is NOTHING to be ashamed of! So many of us suffer from hair-loss in various forms, but the good news is that there are solutions available to all of us! First, let’s unpack androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as pattern baldness. It affects millions of individuals worldwide, impacting both men and women. This condition, characterised by progressive hair loss, is deeply rooted in genetics and hormonal factors, making it a challenging issue to address. However, recent research suggests that collagen plays a significant role in managing androgenetic alopecia and promoting overall hair health. The genetic and hormonal basis of androgenetic alopecia Pattern baldness, or androgenetic alopecia, is primarily determined by genetic predisposition and hormonal factors. It is characterised by a heightened sensitivity of hair follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone. This sensitivity leads to the gradual shrinking of hair follicles, resulting in shorter and finer hair growth cycles. Over time, affected follicles may cease to produce visible hair, leading to noticeable baldness. Both men and women can experience androgenetic alopecia, although the pattern and progression of hair loss tend to differ between the sexes. In men, hair loss typically begins with a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, eventually leading to baldness in these areas. On the other hand, women usually experience diffuse thinning throughout the scalp, with the hairline remaining intact. The role of collagen in hair health Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, providing structural support to various tissues, including the skin, bones, and hair. In the context of hair health, collagen plays a crucial role in maintaining the strength and elasticity of the hair shaft, as well as supporting the structure of the hair follicle. As we age, the production of collagen naturally declines, which can contribute to various signs of aging, including hair thinning and loss. Additionally, factors such as poor diet, stress, and environmental damage can further deplete collagen levels, exacerbating hair-related issues. Emerging evidence suggests that collagen supplementation may offer benefits for individuals dealing with androgenetic alopecia and other forms of hair loss. Collagen peptides, derived from animal sources such as bovine or marine collagen, contain amino acids that are essential for supporting hair structure and growth. Studies have shown that collagen supplementation can promote hair growth by increasing the diameter of individual hair fibres, improving hair texture, and stimulating hair follicle regeneration. Additionally, collagen’s impact on DHT involves supporting hair follicle health, potentially inhibiting enzymes like 5-alpha-reductase involved in DHT production. Improved follicle health may reduce hair loss associated with DHT. Incorporating collagen into your hair care routine If you’re dealing with androgenetic alopecia, or simply want healthier, fuller-looking hair, incorporating collagen into your daily routine is a must! Our Pure Hydrolysed Collagen is tasteless and odourless, which makes adding it to your daily routine easy. You should complement your collagen intake with a balanced diet rich in nutrient-dense foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, to support overall hair health. Androgenetic alopecia is a complex condition influenced by both genetic and hormonal factors, making it challenging to manage effectively. However, by understanding the role of collagen in hair health and incorporating collagen supplementation into your routine, you will be able to support hair growth and hopefully fight off pattern baldness.
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Collagen in Menopause
Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life marked by hormonal changes and associated symptoms. As you approach this transformative period, it’s essential to embrace the transition with knowledge and adopt strategies that support your well-being. In this guide, we’ll explore the intricate relationship between menopause and collagen, offering valuable insights and practical tips for a graceful journey through this stage of life. Understanding Menopause: In menopause, the ovaries ‘pause’ their output of oestrogen but there are other pauses during this time to consider. There is simultaneously a pause in the androgenic hormones. Sometimes referred to as ‘change of life’, menopause signals the end of a woman’s reproductive cycle and is diagnosed once a woman has not had a menstrual cycle for 12 consecutive months – this change occurs because of the ovaries producing less of the hormone oestrogen, and results in several menopause-related symptoms. Menopause involves a decline in oestrogen levels, impacting various hormonal processes. This transition occurs in three stages: Perimenopause: The period leading up to menopause and the 12 months following the last menstrual cycle. Menopause: Commencing 12 months after the last menstrual period, naturally or due to ovary removal. Post menopause: The period following menopause. As women transition through menopause, hormonal fluctuations can significantly impact various aspects of health, especially weight management. One of the key hormones to regulate during this time is insulin. Insulin, often associated with blood sugar control, also plays a role in fat storage. It’s crucial to maintain insulin balance because excessive carbohydrate intake can lead to insulin resistance, causing carb cravings, increased appetite, and potential fat storage, especially in the abdominal area. Cortisol, the primary stress hormone, can wreak havoc during menopause. With significant hormonal shifts and the stressors commonly experienced during this time, cortisol levels may become imbalanced. Chronic elevation of cortisol can contribute to weight gain and other symptoms, including adrenal fatigue. Thyroid hormones, responsible for controlling energy levels and metabolic rate, are pivotal for a healthy menopause. Any imbalance in these hormones can result in decreased ability to use stored fat for energy, leading to weight gain. Leptin, a hormone produced by fat cells, signals to the brain when you’ve had enough to eat. However, just like insulin resistance, leptin resistance can occur, causing increased hunger and overeating. Certain dietary factors, such as fructose and fizzy drinks, can contribute to both leptin and insulin resistance. The “thyropause” is a real phenomenon where the thyroid tends to slow down as individuals age. This hormonal shift, coupled with the hormonal changes during menopause, can reveal latent thyroid diseases. Similar to the thyroid, there’s a concept known as “hepatopause”, where the liver struggles to regulate fuel properly. An unhealthy liver, often a result of excessive consumption of soft drinks, sugar, and carbs, can lead to fatty liver disease. This condition hinders the liver’s ability to burn fuel correctly, contributing to weight gain. Understanding these hormonal intricacies is essential for managing weight and overall health during menopause. Adopting a holistic approach that includes eating clean, nutritious food, stress management, and supplementing where necessary can contribute to a smoother transition. Menopausal hormonal shifts, including decreased testosterone and DHEA, can influence weight distribution, particularly around the abdominal area. Managing insulin, cortisol, and other hormones becomes crucial for maintaining a healthy weight. Nutritional Guidelines for Menopause: Carbohydrate Awareness: Carbohydrates can affect insulin sensitivity, leading to increased fat storage. Limit intake of bread, sugar, alcohol, and dairy to support weight management. Wholesome Nutrition: Opt for real, unprocessed foods to combat fatigue and maintain energy levels. The cleaner the better. Grass-fed butter, organic free-range eggs, and home-grown veggies are absolutely essential! Prioritise a diet rich in organic vegetables, grass-fed meat, and fats. Thyroid and Hormonal Health: Ensure adequate thyroid hormone levels for energy production and metabolic rate regulation. Stress Management: High stress levels contribute to cortisol imbalance. Prioritize self-care to manage stress and prevent weight gain. Hormonal Shifts and Oestrogen: As oestrogen declines, cortisol and insulin may elevate. Implement lifestyle changes to support hormonal balance. Collagen and Menopause: Customer testimonials suggest that pure hydrolysed collagen may alleviate menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes. Menopause, a natural transition marking the end of a woman’s reproductive phase, brings with it a myriad of physical and hormonal changes. Amidst this transformative journey, collagen emerges as a valuable ally, offering a range of benefits that can significantly enhance the well-being of women during menopause. Menopause often brings about joint pain and stiffness, impacting mobility and overall comfort. Collagen, a key component of connective tissues, cartilage, and bones, plays a crucial role in maintaining joint health. Supplementing with collagen may alleviate discomfort, promoting flexibility and ease of movement during this phase. Collagen is renowned for its role in maintaining skin elasticity and hydration. As estrogen levels decline during menopause, collagen production may decrease, leading to sagging skin and the formation of wrinkles. Collagen supplementation can support the skin’s structural integrity, promoting a more youthful complexion and combating the visible signs of aging. Hot flashes and night sweats are hallmark symptoms of menopause, disrupting sleep and daily activities. While research is still ongoing, some women report a reduction in the frequency and intensity of hot flashes with collagen supplementation. The exact mechanisms are not fully understood, but collagen’s influence on hormonal balance and its impact on overall well-being may contribute to this positive effect. Collagen’s amino acid profile includes glycine, which plays a role in liver detoxification and hormonal regulation. Maintaining hormonal balance is crucial during menopause, and collagen’s supportive role in liver function may indirectly contribute to this balance. Changes in hormonal levels during menopause can affect hair and nail health. Collagen, rich in amino acids like proline and lysine, provides the building blocks necessary for healthy hair and nails. Users have reported improvements in hair thickness, strength, and nail quality with regular collagen supplementation. Menopause can sometimes bring digestive challenges, such as bloating and changes in bowel habits. Collagen supports gut health by promoting the integrity of the gut lining and aiding in the repair of damaged tissues. This may contribute to digestive comfort and overall well-being during menopause. Oestrogen decline during menopause has been linked to cognitive changes. While more research is needed, collagen’s potential impact on brain health is an area of interest. Some studies suggest that collagen may have neuroprotective properties, possibly supporting cognitive function. In addition to collagen, several other supplements prove beneficial during menopause, addressing various aspects of health. For digestive well-being, incorporating organic vegetables and probiotics helps maintain a healthy digestive system, supporting overall wellness. When considering supplements for menopause, the following options are noteworthy: Magnesium Citrate aids in supporting blood sugar balance and reducing abdominal size, addressing common concerns during menopause. Omega-3 fish oil is beneficial for weight management, improving body composition, and enhancing mood. Omega-3 Fish Oil emerges as a valuable supplement for women navigating the challenges of menopause. Glutamine is known for its diverse benefits, Glutamine helps reduce cravings for sugar, alcohol, and tobacco. Additionally, it supports insulin sensitivity and aids in fat burning, contributing to overall metabolic health during menopause. Berberine is recognised for its ability to normalise blood sugar levels, Berberine plays a crucial role in promoting overall metabolic health during the menopausal transition. By incorporating these supplements into your daily routine, you can address specific aspects of menopausal health, promoting a holistic approach to well-being during this transformative phase. Embarking on the menopausal journey requires a holistic approach that encompasses nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted supplements. By understanding the intricate interplay of hormones and adopting these guidelines, you can navigate menopause with grace, supporting your well-being and embracing this natural phase of life. Remember, these recommendations are general guidelines, and individual responses may vary. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific health needs. References: Teede, H., Deeks, A., Moran, L., & Moran, L. (2019). Polycystic ovary syndrome: a complex condition with psychological, reproductive and metabolic manifestations that impacts on health across the lifespan. BMC Medicine, 17(1), 41. Santoro, N., & Randolph, J. F. (2011). Reproductive hormones and the menopause transition. Obstetrics and gynecology clinics, 38(3), 455–466. Mauvais-Jarvis, F. (2011). Estrogen and androgen receptors: regulators of fuel homeostasis and emerging targets for diabetes and obesity. Trends in endocrinology and metabolism: TEM, 22(1), 24–33. De Sousa, R. F., Gurgul-Convey, E., & Holsboer, F. (2015). Lessons from genetic rodent models of HPA axis regulation. Cellular and molecular neurobiology, 35(1), 71–84. Duntas, L. H. (2015). Environmental factors and thyroid autoimmunity. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1340(1), 25–33. Kim, D., Kim, W. R., Kim, H. J., Therneau, T. M., & Association, A. P. (2019). Association between noninvasive fibrosis markers and mortality among adults with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in the United States. Hepatology, 69(5), 1755–1765.
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Benefits of Maxi-MSM
In the world of nutritional supplements, MSM, or Methylsulphuronylmethane, has been gaining increasing attention for its diverse health benefits. This naturally occurring organosulphur compound is taking the wellness community by storm, with research shedding light on its potential to support joint health, skin vitality, and overall well-being. Let’s delve into the world of MSM supplementation, exploring its mechanisms, benefits, and practical considerations. MSM, also known as dimethyl sulphone, is a compound rich in organic sulphur, a vital element for various physiological processes in the body. Found in foods like garlic, onions, cruciferous vegetables, and eggs, MSM plays a crucial role in supporting joint health, skin elasticity, and overall vitality. The body utilises MSM to produce essential compounds, including collagen, immunoglobulins, enzymes, and antioxidants. Mechanisms of Action: Keeping your joints healthy: Research shows that MSM contributes to joint health by enhancing Mesenchymal Stem Cell (MSC) chondrogenic commitment and promoting the formation of pre-osteoblasts. These processes are essential for maintaining robust cartilage and supporting bone health. Individuals dealing with arthritis or joint inflammation may find MSM supplementation beneficial in reducing stiffness, swelling, and improving overall joint flexibility. Rejuvenating your skin: MSM has shown promise in promoting skin health and combating signs of ageing. Its unique ability to enhance skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and improve overall skin appearance makes it a valuable addition to skincare routines. The compound’s involvement in collagen synthesis contributes to maintaining youthful and vibrant skin. Allergy Management: For those dealing with allergies, MSM’s anti-inflammatory properties may provide welcome relief. It stabilises cell walls, increasing permeability and elasticity, facilitating the elimination of toxins and allergens. Studies have shown that MSM can control allergic responses, making it a wonderful ally for those suffering from asthma and other allergic conditions. Practical Considerations: Eat the right foods: While MSM supplements are widely available, incorporating sulphur-rich foods into your diet can support the body’s natural production of MSM precursors. Including items like garlic, onions, cruciferous vegetables, and organic, free-range eggs can contribute to maintaining optimal MSM levels. Supplement with only the best: When opting for MSM supplements, it’s crucial to choose high-quality products. Look for reputable brands like ours that undergo third-party testing for purity and effectiveness. Maxi MSM, broken down into smaller, more readily absorbed peptides, is often recommended for enhanced absorption. Dose correctly: As with any supplement, making sure you take the right amount is essential. We recommend taking 5000mg (1 tsp) every day to get the full benefits of this incredible product. Individual requirements may vary, and consulting with healthcare professionals ensures personalised advice based on specific health needs and goals. Supplementing with MSM holds tremendous promise for those seeking to enhance joint health, promote vibrant skin, and manage allergies. By understanding its mechanisms, incorporating it wisely into your routine, and considering the insights from research, you can unlock the potential benefits of this versatile compound. References: Miller L, Thompson K, Pavlenco C, Mettu VS, Haverkamp H, Skaufel S, et al. The Effect of Daily Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) Consumption on High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol in Healthy Overweight and Obese Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2021 Oct 15;13(10):3620. Guo D, Zhang L, Zhang L, Han S, Yang K, Lin X, et al. Effect of dietary methylsulfonylmethane supplementation on growth performance, hair quality, fecal Microbiota, and metabolome in Ragdoll kittens. Front Microbiol . 2022 ;13. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35859746/ Muizzuddin N, Benjamin R. Beauty from within: Oral administration of a sulfur-containing supplement methylsulfonylmethane improves signs of skin ageing. Int J Vitam Nutr Res . 2022 ;92(3–4):182–91. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32083522/
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Collagen for athletes
In the dynamic world of sports and athleticism, your journey is an ongoing pursuit of excellence. We understand the challenges you face, the dedication you bring, and the importance of optimizing your performance while prioritizing recovery. In this blog, we’d like to introduce you to collagen, a versatile ally that goes beyond conventional expectations. You may be familiar with collagen’s traditional role in skin, connective tissues, and bones, but let’s delve deeper into its potential impact on your unique requirements. For those engaged in repetitive, high-impact activities, joint health is a top concern. Collagen takes centre stage here, not just for its potential to enhance joint function but also as a tool to strengthen connective tissues, supporting your journey towards longevity and sustained peak performance. Muscle mass and strength is a common goal among most athletes. Collagen’s amino acid profile, featuring glycine, proline, and lysine, is a key contributor to the foundational elements necessary for muscle synthesis. This is especially crucial when considering the health of tendons and ligaments the integral components for your overall athletic prowess. At the heart of consistent athletic training lies recovery. Collagen peptides hold promise in positively impacting the recovery of connective tissues and muscles. What does this mean for you? Reduced downtime between rigorous training sessions. Quicker recovery translates to more frequent and efficient training, a key determinant of your long-term success. Your gut, often referred to as the “second brain,” plays a pivotal role in your overall well-being, including athletic performance. Collagen steps in by promoting gut health, fortifying the integrity of the gut lining, and aiding in tissue repair. Beyond digestive comfort, this dual-action benefit extends to potentially impacting nutrient absorption. A critical factor as you fine-tune your nutritional strategies. Specific collagen peptides, when combined with targeted exercises, have shown promising results, particularly in individuals dealing with Achilles tendinopathy. Enhanced function and reduced pain are outcomes that underscore the potential synergistic effects of collagen supplementation and targeted exercises, offering hope for those navigating specific challenges. Tendons, responsible for transmitting forces from muscles to bones, hold the key to your athletic performance. Collagen, a cornerstone of tendons, positively influences their composition and mechanical properties, contributing to improved performance and reduced injury risk. Your tendons’ integrity is a foundational aspect that we recognize and prioritize. Practical integration of collagen into your regimen involves thoughtful choices. Opt for high-quality supplements – like our Sally-Ann Creed Pure Hydrolysed Collagen. It’s 100% pure, grass-fed, non-GMO bovine collagen. This natural blend of Type 1 & 3 collagens is perfect for athletes. Adding collagen strategically to your post-workout routines can be an absolulte game-changer! Always consult with healthcare professionals or dietitians for personalized advice based on your individual needs and goals. As you embark on your journey to peak performance, consider collagen as a versatile ally. Scientific insights show benefits across various aspects of your athletic well-being. We recognize that individual responses may vary, highlighting the importance of making informed choices aligned with your unique requirements. In collaboration with healthcare professionals, integrating collagen into your toolkit holds the promise of unlocking new levels of resilience, recovery, and enduring success. Wishing you strength, resilience, and success on your athletic journey. You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream. References: [1] “Oral Supplementation of Specific Collagen Peptides Combined with Calf-Strengthening Exercises Enhances Function and Reduces Pain in Achilles Tendinopathy Patients.” National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6566878/.
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What to expect from Pure Hydrolysed Collagen
Everyone’s different, of course, and results will vary according to your age, diet and state of health, but generally you will see the first results in a few days. Bear in mind your body takes 3-4 months to replenish body tissue and increase the body’s collagen levels. When taken consistently, most people find their hair, skin, nails and joints all improve and remain that way. A good way to measure what to expect when you take our Pure Hydrolysed Collagen is to (a) take a picture of your face and hair before you start. (b) write down all the things you want to change (thin nails, sore joints, hair loss, wrinkles, cellulite, floaters in the eyes etc). Then go back in 3 months’ time and see how many of these symptoms have disappeared. You do need to give your body time to replenish collagen levels and see results even though some see immediate results. Collagen should be taken daily – it is food – and if used daily will produce sustained results. Even if not for cosmetic reasons, for the sake of your bones, cartilage, organs, and gut lining. It is a marvellous supplement for everyone. When it comes to health and beauty, consistency is key. There’s no magic bullet, although we do admit collagen does come close. These results will last as long as you take it as it reverses the body’s decline and keeps you younger (on the inside and outside) much longer. You won’t live forever, but you’ll have a better quality of life and look a lot better too. Bovine collagen (which is type 1 – the kind found in our Pure Hydrolysed Collagen) is the most abundant in the body – therefore the most important one to take. Type 2 is also a good idea, but as it’s in short supply right now – bear in mind that type 1 STIMULATES the production of type 2 in the body. Collagen is a protein present in all the body’s organs and tissues. Type 1 collagen provides the matrix that sustains the body’s structure in hair, skin, nail, and bones. The collagen molecule is too large to be absorbed topically on the skin. This is why collagen creams DO NOT work as a delivery mechanism for collagen. Our Grace skincare uses collagen’s hygroscopic nature to store moisture while your skin naturally absorbs it. Collagen’s main function is to sustain tendons, skin and cartilage. It provides integrity, firmness and elasticity to their structures and maximising collagen levels in your body will keep your skin supple more than any other protein supplement. Collagen begins to decline in the body around the age of 20-25, and signs this is happening include: The onset of, increase in, or deepening of wrinkles Decrease in skin elasticity Decrease in skin moisture levels Stretch marks Getting a head start in your 20’s is the best way to age well. It’s a complex protein made from many different amino acids but most abundantly proline, glycine, lysine and hydroxyproline. These are not present in muscle meats! We don’t eat enough collagen-containing gristle and broths in the modern diet to get these valuable amino acids. That’s why collagen is such a precious supplement. Hydrolysed Collagen is more easily digested and absorbed within 30 minutes and is beneficial in replacing the synovial fluids between the joints helping repair and rebuild the cartilage weakened by overuse through impact and stress. The human body is made up of 30% collagen, of which 70% are connective tissue. It will benefit hair, skin tissue, muscle, cartilage, ligaments and blood cell growth. From the age of 25, collagen levels decrease at a rate of ~1.5% a year. By the age of 40, collagen is depleted faster than it is produced! And by age 60, over half of the body’s collagen has been depleted. It’s collagen which holds us together. It’s found in skin, ligaments, cartilage, tendons, muscles, bone tissue, blood vessels, intervertebral discs, gastrointestinal tract and even in the cornea of the eye. We believe it’s one of those supplements everyone should take for more youthful looking skin, to reduce inflammation, and heal your gut. Collagen is a true nutritional powerhouse.
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