Ciao -
Welcome to the second episode of Supplements, where after debriefing about the topic as a whole in the first episode, we can dig into individual aspects and specifics of different options. This is where things get fun because there are so many ways to increase qualify of life and the ability to tune into what each specific bio-individual can benefit from.
Arguably one of the most well known supplements is collagen, usually in powder form. This is with good cause! Collagen is a fantastic addition to everyday usage for people in every stage of life.
The benefits of collagen are lengthy, and here’s why. Collagen makes up a third of the protein in our body, meaning it is the most abundant protein we have, along with making up a quarter of our blood. It’s in our bones, our muscles, and our tendons, along with our hair, skin, and nails, and plays a huge role in the development and healing of those aliments. With such a large amount of collagen in our bodies, it also plays a heavy roll in daily bodily functions such as digestive health and gut health, hormone balancing, brain health, and heart health by aiding with the loosening of clogged arteries.
Collagen is naturally produced in the body through the combination of amino acids, which are the different building blocks of proteins that we eat. Collagen is built through the teamwork of vitamins and minerals such as zinc, vitamin C, and proline found in foods such as cashews, eggs, mushrooms, and chickpeas. As we age, the production of collagen becomes harder for the body to complete, and the amount of collagen in our tissues and bones lowers, especially when our diet is not sufficient in those necessary minerals. With lower levels of collagen, the classic aging symptoms can present such as thinning hair and nails, achey joints, and lack of muscle mass. While aging is not something to fear or dread, aging more gracefully and kindly can be achieved through certain supplements that encourage the bodies natural functions.
As discussed in the precious episode, the sourcing is a vital part of both the safety and success of said supplement. Especially since collagen is such a well known and loved addition to many peoples diet, specifically their morning coffee, there are endless companies with a product for sale. Although you always want a product with no fake ingredients and additives, the most important aspect of a ‘clean’ collagen is that it has been tested for glyphosate - a carcinogenic herbicide that is sprayed on the grass and wheat that cattle eat, the animal that collagen powder is made from. It is not something you want in your morning coffee! A collagen that checks all of the boxes and that I personally use as well is linked below.
Collagen is often coined as the glue in our bodies, helping to keep everything together smoothly. It can be a great energy lifter, mood enhancer, and protein boost addition to a daily routine. Many people enjoy flavorless or flavored collagen powder in their morning coffee (or afternoon coffee, or both), such as blended in with some creamer. Maybe adding in collagen can be a life saver for avoiding coffee on an empty stomach which creates that cortisol and blood sugar spike!
P.S. If you missed the post about coffee on an empty stomach, check it out:
There are so many wonderful options out there in our modern world to enhance quality of life and wellbeing, ready at our fingertips to utilize. I encourage you to recognize in what areas you could use a little boost, and to capitalize on that, because remember, we are meant not just to survive, but to thrive.
Food for thought,
Lai