The What, Why , How and Which One Story

What is Collagen?
In a very interesting article by James McIntosh on Medicalnewstoday.com , Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, found in the bones, muscles, skin and tendons.
Collagen is a hard, insoluble, and fibrous protein that makes up one-third of the protein in the human body.

Why is it important to my body?

Collagen affects important visible and non visible parts of our bodies.

What does collagen do for the body?

Collagen exists through out the human body but especially in our skin, bones and connective tissue.

Collagen appears in dermis layer of the skin(middle layer).
It helps form a fibrous system of cells called fibroblasts, which can produce new cell growth. It also plays a part in the replacement and restoration of dead skin cells.

There are even some types of collagen that can act as barriers, protecting more delicate organs.

Collagen has such a positive impact on our bodies that it is a shame that as we age our collagen production declines and depletes. The talk of collagen is prevalent for women but it is just as beneficial to men.

With benefits that we all seek, collagen can assist with skin improvement, hair/hair growth, joint discomfort and digestive issues to name a few. There are even some compelling studies that show the benefit of collagen to individuals suffering with Fibromyalgia and Arthritis. I suffer from both of those conditions along with approximately 10 million others with Fibromyalgia and 54 million Arthritis sufferers. Collagen makes a difference.

My How and Which One Story

I discovered the benefits of Collagen months ago. I was at a desperate point in my life with my health. For a year, I was going to doctors and having tests, with no improvement. I was actually getting worse. I got multiple diagnoses but noting definitive. As far as I was made aware I had severe Fibromyalgia, Auto Immune Disease(which was a blanket diagnosis), Arthritis and Adrenal Fatigue.

The doctors prescribed medicines to treat certain symptoms but nothing to help me feel better. Now it was up to me, continue feeling horrible daily and accept it or research and do what I can to get relief. Challenge accepted.

I embarked on a journey of researching supplements, reading countless articles and even taking some classes. Along the way of researching and trying products and supplements I encountered Organic Collagen Peptides Powder.

Within a month of mixing this powder in my morning juice I started noticing some changes. First, I noticed my skin. I had rough patch elbows and heels. I would put lotion on but it didn’t last. No more rough elbows. No more cracked heels – to be honest I don’t pamper my feet the way I should – with that being said they are softer. All over I noticed my skin softer and improved elasticity.

Then, I noticed my hair. My hair became healthier and started growing faster. Even my hairdresser asked what I was using because she noticed such an improvement in the feel and look of my hair.

The first two improvements may be considered more superficial to some and that’s fine. The next two areas I noticed blew me away.

I have Arthritis in my hands and knees. In the mornings I would wake up to my hands being frozen like claws. Into my second month of taking Collagen I noticed I could move my hands when I wake up they were no longer painfully clinched. Also, by the evening my legs and feet would hurt so bad that by the time I got home work work I couldn’t walk. While I still get pain in my legs and feet it is much better. My shelf life after work has improved by a couple hours.

The last area I noticed was a biggie for me. With the Auto Immune I had such digestive issues. A bit beyond the Acid Reflux and gassiness, I was vomiting and nauseous daily. Now with taking the Collagen, gassiness has retreated and I have not vomited since.

Understanding that Collagen may only have a part to play in these improvements. In combination with the vitamin/mineral and joint supplements I take and incorporating essential oils into daily life has made the world of difference. But it all started with the Collagen.

So to answer the original question, do I need Collagen, and I am referring to supplemental, the answer is a resounding YES!

The right Collagen supplement to take is your choice. Here are some important factors to consider:

• Is it Organic ?
• Powder verses Pill, I prefer powder as a pill needs to breakdown more in your system.
• How well does the powder mix with liquid?
• Is the powder tasteless?
• Do you prefer a flavored powder?
• What source is the Collagen from?
• What Collagen types are in your supplement, i.e; Type 1, 2, 3, 5, 10?
• As always, check with your doctor when starting any new regimen.

Below are two Collagens that I have had good results with and checked the boxes of everything I am looking for in my Collagen supplement.

Be aware, be mindful, take action when needed and be healthy.