Collagen is the most abundant protein found in the body. As people age, the amount and rate of collagen production slows down, causing impaired tissue cell growth which can lead to wrinkles, joint problems, reduced muscle mass and decreased bone strength. Lifestyle factors including smoking, excessive alcohol, and high sugar/processed carbohydrate consumption can also contribute to the rate of collagen loss.
Our bodies are born to make collagen. It makes sense that food sources only come from animals such as bovine, chicken, fish skin, bone broth, and gelatinous meats. Getting therapeutic amounts has been made easier with supplementation. I recommend Canadian manufacturers that source collagen from grass-fed animals and wild-caught fish like Organika. They have various collagen products, all containing hydrolyzed collagen peptides.
Enhanced Collagen Bone & Joint has Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and MSM for the joints and Vitamins D3, K2, & C and Calcium for bone health. A 2018 meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials showed significant decreases in joint stiffness scores and osteoporosis symptoms after collagen administration. Other studies have shown after 1 year of taking collagen, women had up to a 7% increase in bone mineral density (BMD) and/or lower BMD losses than those who only took vitamin D and calcium alone.
Enhanced Collagen Pure Beauty has Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, Silica, and Zinc added to enhance collagen production and improve skin, hair, and nail health. A review of 11 studies showed improvements in skin elasticity and hydration after 69 days. Other studies have shown a reduction in under-eye wrinkles in as little as 4 weeks. Anecdotally there are reports of collagen helping with acne, but more studies are needed to validate that claim.
Enhanced Collagen Sleep has GABA and melatonin added to aid in sleep. Collagen contains a significant amount of the amino acid glycine which can enhance the production of serotonin. Glycine also decreases body temperature which naturally happens when falling asleep and thus may improve sleep quality. Preliminary studies have shown that glycine may stabilize blood sugars while sleeping. Erratic blood sugars throughout the night may affect your sleep.
Enhanced Collagen Relax has L-Theanine and Magnesium Bisglycinate. L-Theanine is an amino acid naturally found in green/black tea. This can cross the blood-brain barrier and induce alpha brainwave activity which is associated with a state of “wakeful relaxation” often seen when meditating, daydreaming, or when in REM sleep. What is great is that it may reduce anxiety without drowsiness. The addition of the better absorbable magnesium bisglycinate synergistically helps with calming and muscle relaxation.
You can also just take collagen on its own but for a change of pace, try their great tasting Chocolate Enhanced Collagen, made with real cocoa and 0g of sugar! It’s tastes like a fudgsicle and is versatile on its own or in baking.
Lyle Sunada is a compounding pharmacist and NAMS Certified Menopause Practitioner specializing in hormone balancing and alternative medicine at Cloverdale Pharmasave. Everything mentioned in the article is available In-Store. Articles, Q&A, blog posts and all materials submitted for publishing is the intellectual property of Cloverdale Pharmacy Ltd – reproduction in part or whole, in print or online, without written consent and permission is prohibited.
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