What exactly is Collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant structural
protein found in cartilage, muscles, tendons, ligaments and bones.
Collagen is the glue that holds our bodies together. It is the essential
structural component of all connective tissues. 60% of the body is made up
of connective tissue and collagen represents 80% of all connective
tissues. Fibres of collagen are woven together like threads in fabric to
form a framework into which new cells can grow. In the skin, collagen
provides texture, resiliency, and shape. 75% of the dermis consists of
collagen.
Human beings are constantly producing
collagen, but as we age, our collagen breaks down faster than it can be
replaced. Every night, in the first 90 minutes of sleep, the body normally
creates collagen to be used in the repair process. As we grow older, the
body loses its ability to create the necessary collagen (1.5% per year,
starting from age 25.) and as a result of this, the repairing and
rejuvenation process slows down.
Hydrolysed collagen is simply a modified
form of the protein that has been broken down into smaller pieces by
enzymes - which makes the protein easier to incorporate into dietary
products and may ease the digestion and absorption of the amino acids by
the intestine.
What are the benefits of Collagen?
- Regular use of collagen can act on
the visible signs of ageing : smoothens fine lines and wrinkles; firms
and tones the skin; improves skin elasticity; helps achieve a glowing
radiant complexion; strengthens nails; improves hair conditions,
encourages inch loss; reduces cellulite and improves sleep patterns.
- It can increase moisture-binding
capacity to the skin, reduce problems due to dry skin,
- Collagen functions as a
chondroprotective agent; it also reduces oxidative damage to joints
and stimulate significant reduction in joint pain, tenderness and
swelling. It reduces the pain for those with osteoarthrities.
- Collagen naturally contains 15%
glucosamine sulphate and 15% chondroitin sulphate. Collagen is
non-toxic and has no known side effects.
- Taken before exercise or physical
activity, collagen can have a powerful anabolic effect increasing both
your energy and performance.
- Orally ingested collagen encourages
the rapid absorption of the essential amino acids, glysine, proline
and hydroxyproline that can preserve and replenish lean muscle mass
and improve the management of the body's fat. It therefore has a
positive role to play in weight management and bodybuilding.
- Collagen has also been shown to be an
anti-coagulant - it can prevent blood clotting so can assist in the
maintenance of a healthy heart. Diabetics should give it a serious
consideration.
Is Collagen Effective?
Collagen ingested orally not only works
all over the body but also brings a host of benefits to the skin and other very important parts of the body. It is a natural
ingredient which is fully digestible and triggers no allergies. Collagen
is a food supplement that is easily absorbed by our body and produces
positive results. The collagen supplements replenish the diminishing
supply of collagen needed by our body to perform its function.
Regular intake of collagen supplement
makes your skin nourished and reduces joint pain. These supplements are
made from natural ingredients, like the ones found in different food,
therefore, it is safe.
Skin increases in density, becomes more
elastic and hydrated and you begin looking younger the first week. Fine
lines and wrinkles begin to disappear and deeper wrinkles recede within
three weeks, the face actually undergoes a visible change of youthful
contour.
When to take Collagen?
For best results, the collagen should be
consumed last thing at night because the peak period for repair and
regeneration is during the first two hours of sleep, known as the alpha
cycle. Collagen should also be consumed first thing in the morning.
Anyway, collagen is a most refined form of protein. It can be consumed any
time of the day. Collagen is a fine-grained granule that dissolves rapidly
in cold or warm water in any drinks such as juices, Milo or coffee.
Recommended
Intake
Dissolve 1 sachet of
SGS Pure Marine Collagen with water or any hot or cold beverage, Milo,
honey water or fruit juice. For better result, take 2 sachets a day for
the first two to three months.
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