Supplementing with collagen has become extremely popular in the past few years. But is all this excitement worth the hype? Research is pointing in the direction of yes! 

Collagen is one of the major building blocks in skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, muscles, and blood vessels. In other words, collagen acts like the “glue” that holds our body together. As we age, our existing collagen breaks down and it gets harder for our body to produce more.  In addition, environmental factors such as stress, poor diet and environmental toxins can accelerate that loss of collagen from our body. We begin to lose about 1% of our collagen per year in our mid-20s and lose as much as 30% during the first 5 years of menopause.

There are 27 different types of collagen in the body with Type I collagen being the most abundant. Type I collagen is primarily found in fish scales and skin and appears to have great benefits when it comes to our skin, hair and nails as we age. 

What are the benefits of collagen? 

Research has shown there are several benefits to supplementing with collagen which include:

• Minimizing fine lines and deep wrinkles
• Minimizing arthritic pain 
• Repairing sun damage
• Increasing skin hydration and suppleness
• Aiding in lean muscle gain
• Reducing joint pain
• Strengthening hair and nails
• Maintaining bone health

Collagen can also be used as an added protein source.  Two tablespoons of collagen contain approximately 10grams of protein. 

What collagen supplement do I use? 

I use collagen daily and either add it to my morning smoothie or into my coffee. I use Organika Marine collagen powder because it is an ultra-pure, premium select grade collagen peptide. Free from artificial colours, flavours, additives, preservatives, and stabilizers, it is simply the highest grade of collagen peptide available.

You can receive 10% of your order and all practitioner grade supplements by visiting my store. All you have to do is create an account (shipping is free over $150!).

Chocolate collagen morning smoothie 

I start most of my days with a smoothie and collagen is either in my smoothie or in my coffee. Check out this easy to make delicious, chocolate collagen smoothie. Collagen has very little taste so will take on the taste of the smoothie ingredients.

• 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk (or oat milk) 
• 1 frozen banana 
• 1 tbsp of natural peanut butter 
• 1/4 cup of raw cocoa powder 
• 1 scoop of WithinUS collagen 

Add all ingredients to your favourite blender (I always use my Nutrabullet)- blend on high and enjoy!