Health: Vital Proteins Collagen

Happy Friday!

This past year has brought a lot of changes to my life. One of those changes was a choice to take better care of myself. Get more exercise. Drink more water. Consume a little less sugar (I don’t drink alcohol, and I haven’t had a soda in almost ten years, but I do love dessert!) I have done a good job maintaining those goals. Baby steps work best for me.

Today, I want to talk about collagen. I know. I never thought much about it either until I was talking to my friend Mary (who is a nutritionist) about hair and skin changes (years out in the sun), hormones, inflamation, and “crunchy” knees. My knees have some arthritic changes from years of riding horses.

Mary asked if had ever used collagen supplements? Protein, yes. Collagen? Nope.

“Collagen is the main structural protein in the extracellular space, in the various connective tissues in the body. As the main component of connective tissue, it is the most abundant protein in mammals, making up from 25% to 35% of the whole-body protein content. Collagen, is mostly found in fibrous tissues – tendons, ligaments and skin. It is also abundant in corneas, cartilage, bones, blood vessels, the gut, intervertebral discs, and the dentin in teeth. It serves as a major component in muscle tissue. Collagen constitutes one to two percent of muscle tissue, and accounts for 6% of the weight of muscles.” – Medical News Today

Did you know your body only consistently produces collagen until you are 35-40? I didn’t. After that collagen production begins to decline, with a dramatic reduction in synthesis in women after 50.

Have you noticed skin changes? Are those fine lines beginning to creep up on you? What about joint aches and pains? Do you juice fruits and veggies, or make smoothies? Do you add protein to those (or anything else) for health and/or recovery benefits? I used to make smoothies, but if I added traditional protein supplements like whey, they would give me a wicked stomach-ache. Let’s be honest, beyond that I’m also a little bit of baby when forcing myself to choke it down with water or milk. Ew. Seriously, it shouldn’t be that much work. “It tastes like a milkshake”? To who? Yuck!

Mary suggested Vital Proteins. Have you heard of Vital Proteins yet? If you haven’t, you can read more about the company here. They have been around for a while now. I had read all about their products, but had not tried any of them, so I decided to give their Collagen Peptides a whirl. 

The first benefit I noticed was the digestive difference and absence of stomach issues when mixed with fruit and vegetables. No bloated feeling or stomach-ache! This alone is a huge selling point for me! The product is also completely soluble in liquids and is truly (nearly) tasteless which is also another big selling point. You can mix it into anything! I have mixed it into yogurt or oatmeal, and I put a single scoop in my tea daily and don’t even notice it! #winning

After using the collagen peptides for about two months, I realized my nails were stronger. After four months, I noticed changes to my skin and hair (more shine, less breakage). Nicole has been cutting and coloring my hair for 20+ years, was the first to mention it. The six month mark was the most significant to me. My knees were less achy when exercising. In fact, I think even my lower back has benefited a bit. Bonus: I’m a fan of fast Amazon shipping, so I love that you can order it from them, and it’s just a bit cheaper at Amazon. If you’re already sold, you can find an ordering link here.

Now, I’m not saying collagen peptides are a miracle elixir. This isn’t 1850, when the guy in the top hat toted his wares to every town, claiming there was a “miracle” in every bottle. Your results may not be the same as mine, or they might be even better. You and I both know there is no fountain of youth. Nothing will completely turn back the clock, but I am all about feeling like I have the ability to slow it down. Vital Proteins also has a new collagen product out that has a chicken bone broth base. I haven’t tried it yet, but plan to order. To learn more about the benefits of bone broth (there are MANY!) click here. Now, personally, I do think bone broth might actually be as close to a miracle elixir as you can get!

At the end of the day, what I appreciate most is that the VP products are naturally derived. No chemicals and lab created crap! If you can appreciate that too, take a few minutes to check out Vital Proteins. I think you’ll be happy you did.

Here’s to our health! Enjoy the weekend!

-Kim

PS – If you happen to be looking for somebody knowledgeable to work with regarding your health, Mary is your girl. She is truly a wealth of information! Her website is still under construction, but you can get in touch with her at www.maryshappell.com