In recent years, collagen has emerged as a buzzword in health and beauty circles, gaining popularity for its myriad benefits that stretch from skin health to joint function. Elizabeth Harris on the Isle of Wight delves into the importance of this remarkable protein and will explore what collagen is, why it is essential for our bodies, and how to choose the best supplement to elevate your overall health.
What Is Collagen and Why Do We Need It?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies, accounting for approximately 30% of our total protein content. It serves as a fundamental building block for our skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Essentially, collagen acts like a scaffold that provides structure, strength, and elasticity to various tissues.
There are several types of collagen, but the most common ones are Type I, II, and III. Type I collagen is primarily found in skin, tendons, and bones, offering tensile strength. Type II collagen is predominantly present in cartilage, supporting joint health. Type III collagen is found in skin, blood vessels, and internal organs, contributing to tissue elasticity and structure. Other types, such as Type IV and V, play roles in forming membranes and supporting cellular structures.
Why Consider a Supplement?
Our bodies produce collagen naturally, but this production begins to decline as early as our 20s. This decline can lead to noticeable changes such as wrinkles, fine lines, loss of skin elasticity, thinning hair, weaker nails, and joint issues. Lifestyle factors, including exposure to environmental pollutants, smoking, and an unhealthy diet, can further accelerate collagen loss.
As we age, the cellular processes that generate collagen slow down, resulting in a less resilient body. This realisation leads many to consider collagen supplementation to counteract the signs of ageing and promote overall health.
Do Collagen Supplements Work?
With the surge in popularity of collagen supplements, many individuals ask whether these products are effective. As someone who is experiencing the effects of ageing, I decided to investigate the research surrounding collagen supplements, their efficacy, and the essential components that contribute to their effectiveness.
Types of Collagen Supplements: Marine vs. Bovine
Collagen supplements generally come in two forms: marine and bovine. Marine collagen is derived from fish and primarily contains Type I, and some type II collagen, while bovine collagen comes from cows and includes Types I, II, and III.
Marine collagen has a smaller peptide particle size, which enhances its absorption in the body. However, bovine collagen, with its higher concentrations of Types I and III, also contains Type II collagen, making it beneficial for joint health. Hydrolysed bovine collagen is now available, which means it is broken down into smaller peptides for better absorption.
Why I Chose Bovine Collagen
After researching, I decided on a bovine collagen supplement due to its comprehensive benefits. Bovine collagen not only supports skin health but also provides Type II collagen, essential for joint function. Studies also indicate that combining Types I, II, and III collagen offers a more holistic approach to health.
Moreover, it is crucial to ensure that collagen is paired with essential nutrients such as vitamin C, zinc, and amino acids, as these play vital roles in collagen synthesis (production). Interestingly, hyaluronic acid, which also depletes with age, is crucial for skin hydration and collagen production.
Discovering Totally Derma® Collagen Boosting Nutraceutical Drink
After thorough research, I found a potent, clinically proven collagen supplement: Totally Derma® Collagen Boosting Nutraceutical Drink. This product has been formulated to reduce inflammation and improve various aspects of health, including skin, hair, nails, joints, and gut health.
Key Features of Totally Derma®:
High-strength powdered supplement containing 10,000mg of bovine collagen and 210mg of hyaluronic acid.
Contains five antioxidants and minerals, including vitamin C, zinc, and green tea extract, to enhance collagen production.
Promotes skin firmness, elasticity, hydration, and supports joint health.
Totally Derma® represents a significant advancement in skincare and health, addressing the root causes of aging through a comprehensive approach.
How Collagen Supports:
Gut Health
Collagen plays a vital role in maintaining gut health by repairing the gut lining and regulating hormones that affect digestion. An imbalance in the gut microbiome can lead to various skin issues, including acne and other inflammatory conditions.
By promoting a healthy gut environment, collagen can help maintain clear and youthful skin. Totally Derma®’s formulation supports gut function, helping to prevent issues like leaky gut syndrome, which can lead to systemic inflammation.
Joint Function and Mobility
Collagen is essential for maintaining the flexibility and strength of cartilage, which cushions our joints and allows smooth movement. As collagen production decreases with age, the risk of joint pain and arthritis increases.
Totally Derma® helps enhance joint comfort and flexibility by increasing collagen and hyaluronic acid levels in the body, making it an excellent choice for those with active lifestyles or joint concerns.
Skin Health and Peri/Menopause
Collagen is crucial for maintaining skin health, especially during perimenopause and menopause when oestrogen levels drop, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin, particularly around the cheeks and jawline. This decline also results in drier, less vibrant skin and increased fragility. The interplay between collagen and hyaluronic acid (HA) further complicates hydration and elasticity, as lower collagen levels reduce HA production.
Totally Derma® addresses these concerns with its formulation of bio-absorbable Types I, II, and III collagen, HA, antioxidants and HA, which has shown in clinical studies to enhance skin hydration, elasticity, and reduce wrinkles over 12 weeks. Additionally, this supplement helps alleviate menopause-related symptoms like vaginal dryness and urinary incontinence, providing a comprehensive approach to women’s health during this life stage.
Totally Derma is available for my patients to purchase in clinic at a 20% discount off the RRP
Recent Comments