Collagen Supplements, facts or just hype? Perhaps it’s the celebrities making all the hype that collagen supplements are the newest craze, however the facts are, collagen supplements have been around for decades in the form of bone broth when we are unwell and topical collagen infusions in the beauty industry … So here are some facts to help you choose wisely.
Collagen is a protein made up of amino acids that are found in the human body. The word collagen comes from the Greek word “kolla,” which means “glue,” and it is these collagenous fibres that help to strengthen connective tissue. Together with keratin, collagen gives the skin its strength, waterproofing, and elasticity. Loss of it is a cause of wrinkles because as we age, production of it declines, and the protein can be damaged by smoking, sunlight, and other forms of oxidative stress. Because collagen is such a large protein, it is not easily absorbed through the skin.
Which form is better – powder, liquid, pills…
Well it’s actually the QUALITY of the collagen supplement that is important, as well as the manufacturing process and certainly the actual source of collagen that you need to consider when buying a collagen supplement .
At Temple Skincare & Spa, we prefer super food blends of liquid or powder as they are the best forms to be absorbed by the body, however they should all be taken with food for best results.
The source of the collagen is also very important and sometimes controversial. There are two main types of collagen supplements… Bovine collagen from pork and beef which is the stronger type, however it has a shorter half life and a large molecule that is not easily absorbed into our bodies… not to mention the ethical elements you will need to consider.
The second is what we prefer, and that is Fresh water marine collagen. This has a much smaller molecular weight for better absorption. To give you an idea, collagen peptides should be smaller than 2000 daltons to be best absorbed by the body. Bovine is larger than 2000 daltons, however our beautiful fresh water marine collagen is normally between 1000-2000 daltons hence its far more bioactive in the body. We believe this is not only more sustainable as it is from nature, however it is a better quality, with a longer half life and a much more stable form of collagen supplement. We highly recommend the Bestow Collagen Boost in spa.
What are effects and benefits?
A good quality collagen supplement definitely helps reverse the visible signs of ageing.
There have been many international Clinical blind studies and one of these as an example for you that was comprised of 72 women over 35 yrs to 75 years old. As a blind study, this meant that half the group were given a placebo and the other half the collagen supplement for a 12 week period.
This showed that taking the collagen supplements will not replace the collagen in your body, however it will help to prevent your collagen breaking down, and it also boosts your body’s own collagen production!
I don’t know about you but I am all for looking as naturally youthful as possible. This study showed that after 12 weeks there was:
- 28% improvement in the skin’s hydration
- 24% improvement in the skins density, which is the thickness of the epidermis
- 18% improvement in elasticity, which is the skins bounce
Along with these attractive anti-aging benefits, taking a good quality collagen supplement will also assist in wound healing , joint pain, muscle improvement and of course hair and nail health.
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Collagen Skin Supplements
Aside from the Bestow Beauty Collagen, another easy way to incorporate collagen daily is to take it as a supplement.
The Advanced Nutrition Programme supplements journey starts in the Skin Health Research Centre at the International Institute for Anti-Ageing to research, trial and test beyond expectations to synergise supplement solutions for all types of skin. Every capsule delivers clinically-proven results while also working with a sustainable mindset to protect our planet.
How often to take it
The Bestow Collagen Boost we suggest is a blend of drinkable nutraceuticals and must be taken with a meal. It is a powdered blend of not only those fresh water marine collagen peptides, but also zinc, vitamin c, and biotin.
For any collagen supplement to be effective the minimum recommended daily dosage is only 2.5g, however if you really want to bring about change, we suggest 10-15g daily for optimal results.
Things don’t happen overnight though, so we highly recommend taking these supplements for a minimum of 3-6 months before going onto a maintenance dosage. They also don’t work if they just sit on the kitchen bench so be sure to take them daily.
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Other supplements we suggest for healthy youthful skin…
Collagen supplements are most effective if coupled with other vitamins and minerals. In fact, the body cannot make collagen without zinc. Vitamin C is also vital. Your skin needs it to make strong collagen.
Most people in Australia & New Zealand are zinc and Vitamin C deficient due to our modern diets. These are two vital minerals we need in our bodies to create our own collagen.
Similarly, most people lack the 3000mg of Omega 3 their skin and bodies required per day for healthy skin.
The Ultimate may not be collagen peptides however they offer the ultimate nutrients for healthy youthful skin and they contain a combination of five specific supplements Skin Vit A+, Skin Omegas+, Skin Antioxidant, Skin Asta-Boost (a natural carotenoid) and Skin CoQ10+ (for energy boost), which will stimulate collagen as they are precursors to your bodies collagen synthesis. They will replicate the skin’s function.
Needing more information or advice on Collagen and how to address your skin concerns? Phone us on (02) 9634 2411 or for a more intensive talk and skin analysis, book a Virtual Consultation with us today.