Collagen - not just for skin health

As we age, we lose 1% of our natural collagen a year. Collagen is a main structural protein found in our connective tissues. It makes up 25-35% of our whole body protein content. As our collagen decreases, we experience common symptoms such as an increase in fine lines/wrinkles, thinning hair, brittle nails & bones, sore joints, low blood pressure, & gut issues. This is because healthy connective tissue plays a huge role in all the organ systems just mentioned.

Most all of us, especially Americans because of our processed food intake, suffer from leaky gut. This is where the connective tissue of our intestine's lining starts to break down, and small holes form in their junctions. These small holes allow food particles and toxins to exit our intestines and enter our bloodstream, wreaking havoc on our body. It increases auto-immune disorders & causes systematic inflammation. You can significantly help your gut by consuming more collagen in your diets or supplementing with collagen products.

The best way to increase your collagen intake is to drink 1-3 cups of bone broth (from cattle) a day. You can make bone broth yourself (the more affordable option) or find a local butcher to supply you some. There are also companies that ship bone broth.

If you choose to supplement with collagen be sure the product is clean-sourced, and provides all FIVE types of collagen. A product I am currently using is Organix. I just put 1 scoop a day into my morning smoothies.