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In today's fast-paced world, our mental well-being often takes a backseat amidst the chaos of daily life. However, prioritizing mental health is essential for overall wellness and happiness. At Life Health, we understand the importance of nurturing your mental health, and we're here to guide you on your journey to holistic wellness. Understanding Mental Wellness: Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act, shaping our ability to handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. While everyone experiences challenges to their mental health at some point, maintaining good mental health is crucial for coping with life's ups and downs. Embracing Self-Care Practices: In addition to incorporating supplements into your routine, prioritizing self-care practices is essential for nurturing your mental health. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as spending time outdoors, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and connecting with loved ones. Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you're struggling with your mental health, don't hesitate to reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional for guidance and support. Supplements for Mental Health Support: In addition to seeking professional guidance and practicing self-care strategies, incorporating certain supplements into your routine can provide valuable support for your mental health journey. Here are some supplements to consider: Omega-3 Fish Oil: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, are known for their mood-stabilizing properties. Life Health Omega-3 Fish Oil supplements offer a convenient way to boost your intake of these essential nutrients, supporting brain health and emotional well-being. Inulin: The gut-brain connection is a powerful link that influences mood, behavior, and cognitive function. Life Health Inulin prebiotic fibre, by nourishing your gut flora, Life Health Inulin Prebiotic Fiber supports optimal digestion, reduces bloating, and enhances nutrient absorption. L-Theanine: Found naturally in green tea, L-theanine is an amino acid known for its calming effects on the mind. Life Health L-Theanine supplements can help reduce stress and anxiety while promoting relaxation and mental clarity. Vitamin D: Known as the "sunshine vitamin," vitamin D plays a crucial role in mood regulation and mental health. Life Health Vitamin D supplements provide a convenient way to maintain optimal vitamin D levels, especially during the winter months when sunlight exposure may be limited. Magnesium: Magnesium is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including those related to mood regulation and stress management. Life Health Magnesium supplements can help support relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality.

Today, let's talk about everyone's favourite macronutrient: protein. Yes, we know, you've already heard that it's essential for building muscle, but do you know why? In the below article we look into the fascinating world of protein supplements and discover how they work their magic on your muscles. The Building Blocks of Muscle: Picture your muscles as tiny construction sites, constantly rebuilding and repairing themselves. What do they need to get the job done? You guessed it – protein. Specifically, they rely on amino acids, the individual components of protein, to fuel growth and repair. Without an adequate supply of amino acids, your muscles can't reach their full potential. Protein Supplements: A Shortcut to Success: Now, let's talk supplements. While you can certainly get your protein fix from whole foods like chicken, fish, and tofu, sometimes life gets in the way. That's where protein supplements come in. They're a convenient, efficient way to ensure you're hitting your protein goals, especially on busy days or post-workout when your muscles need a speedy recovery. Types of Protein Supplements: Not all protein supplements are created equal. From whey and casein to plant-based options like pea and hemp protein, there's a variety of choices to suit every lifestyle and dietary preference. Each type offers its own unique benefits, whether you're looking to bulk up, slim down, or simply maintain your gains. The Abundant Benefits of Collagen: In the realm of protein science, collagen stands out for its unique contributions to overall health and vitality. As the most abundant protein in the human body, collagen plays a crucial role in supporting the structural integrity of various tissues, including skin, bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Its fibrous structure provides strength and elasticity, helping to maintain skin firmness, joint flexibility, and bone density. Supplementing with collagen has been shown to promote skin health, reduce joint pain, support muscle growth and repair, and enhance bone density. By incorporating collagen into one's diet, individuals can optimize their protein intake and support the body's natural processes for overall health and well-being. Product Suggestions from Life Health: Ready to take your muscle game to the next level? Look no further than Life Health's lineup of protein supplements. From our premium whey protein to our Vegan protein, we've got everything you need to support your fitness goals. Because when it comes to building muscle and recovering like a champ, quality matters. Where to start? Have a look at our list below and pick your favs! Whey Protein Vegan Protein Electrolyte Recovery Fuel Collagen Pro superfood Collagen Pure Collagen Pro Plus So, what's the bottom line? Protein supplements aren't just for bodybuilders – they're for anyone looking to maximize their muscle gains and recover like a pro. By understanding the science behind protein and choosing the right supplements for your needs, you can unlock your body's full potential

As the seasons change and winter approaches, it's essential to take proactive steps to protect and strengthen your immune system. With colder weather often comes an increase in colds, flu, and other respiratory illnesses, making it crucial to prioritize immune health. Fortunately, there are several simple yet effective ways to support your immune system and stay healthy throughout the winter months. Nutritious Diet: A well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants needed to support immune function. Incorporating immune-boosting foods such as citrus fruits, leafy greens, garlic, and ginger can provide an extra layer of protection. Regular Exercise: Physical activity not only strengthens your body but also enhances immune function. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week to support overall health and immunity. Adequate Sleep: Quality sleep is vital for immune health, as it allows your body to repair and regenerate cells. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and prioritize a consistent sleep schedule to optimize immune function. Stress Management: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to illness. Incorporate stress-reducing activities such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or spending time in nature to support both physical and mental well-being. Supplementation - Super Immune: In addition to a healthy diet and lifestyle, supplements can provide added support for immune health. Life Health's Super Immune Advanced Immune Support is formulated with a blend of vitamins, minerals, and botanical extracts designed to bolster immune function and promote overall wellness. Ingredients like vitamin C, zinc, echinacea, and elderberry work synergistically to support a robust immune response, helping you stay healthy all season long. By prioritizing immune health through proper nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, stress management, and targeted supplementation, you can fortify your body's defenses and enjoy a healthier winter season.

Have you ever stopped to ponder the intricate dance between your mind and body? It's fascinating, isn't it? The way one day it’s a miss-matched tango and the next a well-choreographed waltz. With our time spread between all the various facets of our lives it is easy to overlook the profound connection between our thoughts, emotions and, ultimately, our physical health but it is a relationship worth exploring and nurturing. Understanding the Mind-Body Connection: Picture this: Your mind and body are like best friends who never leave each other's side. They communicate constantly, influencing each other in ways we're only beginning to understand, and one cannot exist without the other. Stressful thoughts? Your body feels it. Positive vibes? Your body thrives on them. It's a beautiful, albeit complex, dance that shapes our well-being in more ways than we realize. Studies have shown that chronic stress, negative thinking patterns, and unresolved emotional issues can contribute to a wide range of health problems, including cardiovascular disease, digestive disorders, and weakened immune function. The Power of Positive Thinking: Let's talk about the magic of positivity, shall we? Positive thinking isn't just some fluffy concept – it's backed by science. Studies show that cultivating a sunny outlook can do wonders for your health. Positive thinking has been linked to lower levels of stress hormones, reduced inflammation, and improved immune function. Practices such as mindfulness meditation, gratitude journaling, and visualization techniques can help shift our focus towards more positive thoughts and emotions. Nurturing Your Mental Well-being: Self-care isn't selfish – it's a vital part of nurturing your mind-body connection. Whether it's practicing mindfulness, getting your sweat on, or simply savouring a moment of stillness, find what works for you. And hey, if you need a little extra support, that's where we come in. Life Health is here to provide you with natural supplements designed to support your holistic well-being. Product Suggestions from Life Health: Let's talk supplements, shall we? Our lineup is carefully crafted to support your mental and emotional wellness journey. From stress-busting ashwagandha capsules to soothing L-theanine, we've got your back. Because when it comes to nourishing your mind and body, every little bit helps. So, what's the takeaway here? Simply put, your thoughts matter. By embracing positivity, practicing self-care, and nourishing your body with the right supplements, you can unlock the full potential of your mind-body connection. Here's to a happier, healthier you!

Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule: One of the most effective ways to improve sleep quality is to establish a consistent sleep schedule. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body's internal clock and promotes better sleep-wake cycles. Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Create a relaxing bedtime routine to signal to your body that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep. This could include activities such as taking a warm bath, practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation, or reading a book. Optimize Your Sleep Environment: Make sure your sleep environment is conducive to quality rest. Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet, and invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows that provide adequate support. Consider using blackout curtains, white noise machines, or earplugs to minimize disturbances. Limit Exposure to Screens Before Bed: The blue light emitted by screens such as smartphones, tablets, and computers can interfere with your body's natural sleep-wake cycle. To improve sleep quality, limit screen time before bed and avoid using electronic devices at least an hour before you plan to sleep. Watch Your Diet and Hydration: Avoid consuming caffeine, alcohol, and heavy meals close to bedtime, as they can disrupt sleep patterns. Instead, opt for light, nutritious snacks and stay hydrated throughout the day. Life Health's Magnesium & Zinc supplement can support relaxation and promote restful sleep. Consider Natural Sleep Aids: If you're struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep, consider natural sleep aids like melatonin or herbal supplements such as valerian root or chamomile. Life Health offers a range of sleep support supplements, including Ashwagandha and Advanced Sleep capsules, formulated to promote relaxation and support healthy sleep pattern. s.

With the overwhelming amount of outside influence in today's world, many of us have developed unhealthy relationships with food. We often eat on the go, mindlessly consuming whatever is convenient rather than nourishing our bodies with intention. However, by practicing mindful eating, we can cultivate a deeper connection with our food and ultimately improve our overall well-being. What is Mindful Eating? Mindful eating is the practice of paying full attention to the experience of eating and drinking, both inside and outside the body. It involves being present in the moment, acknowledging our thoughts and feelings, and making conscious choices about what and how we eat. Instead of rushing through meals or eating out of habit, mindful eating encourages us to savor each bite, appreciate the flavors and textures, and listen to our body's hunger and fullness cues. Benefits of Mindful Eating: Improved Digestion: By slowing down and chewing food thoroughly, mindful eating aids digestion and allows our bodies to better absorb nutrients. Weight Management: Mindful eating helps prevent overeating by increasing awareness of hunger and fullness signals, leading to more balanced food choices and portion control. Reduced Stress: Taking the time to enjoy our meals mindfully can lower stress levels and promote relaxation, as we focus on the present moment rather than worrying about past or future concerns. Enhanced Satisfaction: By savoring each bite and fully experiencing the flavors of our food, mindful eating can increase satisfaction and enjoyment of meals, leading to greater overall contentment. Greater Self-Awareness: Mindful eating encourages self-reflection and awareness of our eating habits, emotional triggers, and relationship with food, empowering us to make healthier choices aligned with our goals and values. Tips for Practicing Mindful Eating: Eat Slowly: Take your time with each meal, chewing slowly and savoring the taste, texture, and aroma of your food. Eliminate Distractions: Turn off screens and put away electronic devices while eating to fully engage in the experience without distractions. Tune into Hunger Cues: Pay attention to your body's hunger and fullness signals, eating when hungry and stopping when satisfied. Engage Your Senses: Use all your senses to appreciate the colors, smells, sounds, and textures of your food, fostering a deeper connection with each meal. Practice Gratitude: Before eating, take a moment to express gratitude for the nourishment your meal provides, cultivating a positive mindset around food. By embracing mindful eating practices, we can transform our relationship with food and nourish our bodies and minds in a more holistic way. Let's commit to being present at the table, honoring our bodies' needs, and cultivating a greater sense of well-being through the power of mindful eating.

PRIORITIZING WELLNESS IN A BUSY WORLD Often, we speak about the fast-paced world, the hustle and bustle, the constant grind and often we lose ourselves to all of trying to constantly keep up, often neglecting one of the most important things in the world; our well-being. However, self-care is of monumental importance for maintaining our physical, mental, and emotional health, especially amidst the chaos of our busy schedules as it affects everything from our health to our relationships with ourselves and others. In this blog post, we'll explore the art of self-care and provide practical tips for incorporating it into your daily routine, allowing you to thrive even in the eye of life's hurricane. Understanding Self-Care: Self-care is different for everyone, whilst it may be a vacation for some it may be a mid-morning baking session for others, self-care in its essence is anything that that nurtures and nourishes our bodies, minds, and souls. It's about taking intentional steps to prioritize our well-being, even when faced with competing responsibilities and obligations. Contrary to popular belief, self-care is not selfish or indulgent; rather, it's a vital component of maintaining balance and resilience in our lives. Practical Tips for Prioritizing Self-Care: 1.       Establish boundaries: Set clear boundaries, both at work and in your personal life. For long many people-pleasers have found themselves burnt out, depressed, unappreciated and exhausted by saying yes to millions of tasks that add up to an overwhelming mountain of work. It perhaps is time to learn to say no in order to preserve and protect your time and energy. 2.       Make time for yourself: Schedule regular "me time" sessions where you can engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it's reading a book, practicing yoga, or taking a leisurely walk in nature, carve out moments for self-reflection and rejuvenation. 3.       Practice mindfulness: Cultivate mindfulness by staying present and fully engaged in the present moment. Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or body scans into your daily routine to reduce stress and enhance overall well-being. Try set an hour aside where you take digital detox, avoid being distracted from the present moment best you can. 4.       Prioritize sleep: As children, we were encouraged (forced) to take naps. Whilst, as adults we may not have the luxury of the mid-afternoon nap it is advised that for our physical and mental well-being we make the most of the sleep we do get. Create a calming bedtime routine that extracts the most amount of relaxation possible in those hours of rejuvenation. Try incorporating our advanced sleep supplement that aids sleep, should you require extra assistance with this step. 5.       Nourish your body: Pay attention to your dietary habits and fuel your body with nutritious foods that support optimal health. Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. 6.       Stay active: We cannot downplay the importance of your body’s need to move. Find activities you enjoy, whether it's going for a run, attending a fitness class, or practicing outdoor activities like hiking or swimming, keeping the body active has been scientifically proven to assist in benefiting your well-being. 7.       Connect with others: Is there anything better than the love of those around you? Cultivate meaningful connections with friends, family, and community members who uplift and support you. Nurture your relationships through regular communication, quality time together, and acts of kindness and appreciation. Self-care is a fundamental aspect of maintaining overall health and well-being, especially in today's crazy fast-forward time warp of a life. By prioritizing self-care and incorporating practical strategies into your daily routine, you can cultivate a greater sense of balance, resilience, and fulfilment in your life. Remember, self-care isn't a luxury; it's a necessity for thriving in an increasingly busy world. So, take time to nurture yourself and prioritize your wellness—it's the greatest gift you can give yourself.

In our fast-paced lives, juggling various responsibilities often leaves us seeking ways to enhance cognitive function during the day and promote restful sleep at night. The interplay between vitamins and minerals is a key factor in achieving this delicate balance. Here, we explore the best cognitive function vitamin combinations available at Life Health that can contribute to cognitive wellness and support rest. 1. B-Vitamins for Cognitive Clarity: B-vitamins, play crucial roles in brain function. These vitamins are involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which regulates mood, and dopamine, which impacts motivation and reward. Life Health's B-Complex supplement ensures a comprehensive intake of these essential nutrients. Suggested Combination: Vitamin B Complex 2. Magnesium and Vitamin D for Calmness: Magnesium is known for its calming effects on the nervous system, contributing to relaxation and improved sleep quality. It works synergistically with Vitamin D, which also plays a role in mood regulation. Life Health offers Magnesium and Vitamin D supplements for overall cognitive function and sleep support. Suggested Combination: Magnesium + Vitamin D 3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Vitamin E for Brain Health: Omega-3 fatty acids, are essential for brain health and cognitive function. Pairing these with Vitamin E can offer antioxidant protection to brain cells. Life Health provides high-quality Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Vitamin E supplements. Suggested Combination: Omega-3 Fatty Acids + Vitamin E 4. Zinc and Vitamin C for Immune Support: A strong immune system is essential for overall health, including cognitive function. Zinc and Vitamin C work together to support immune health, ensuring that the body functions optimally. Life Health offers Zinc and Vitamin C supplements for this purpose. Suggested Combination: Zinc + Vitamin C Remember, before starting any new supplement regimen, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it aligns with your individual health needs. Additionally, obtaining nutrients through a balanced diet remains the foundation for overall well-being. Combine these suggested vitamin pairs thoughtfully, considering your specific health goals and lifestyle, to enhance cognitive function and promote restful sleep for a healthier, more balanced life.

Our bodies are complex systems that require a variety of nutrients to function optimally. While a balanced diet can provide many of the necessary vitamins and minerals, it can be challenging to get all the essential nutrients from food alone. This is where supplements come in – they can help fill any nutritional gaps and support overall health and wellbeing. Vitamins and minerals are essential micronutrients that play critical roles in many bodily processes, including metabolism, immune function, and bone health. They also act as antioxidants, helping to protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals. When we don't get enough of these nutrients, we may experience a range of health issues, including fatigue, weakness, and an increased risk of chronic diseases. Here are some of the reasons why supplementing with vitamins and minerals can be important for optimal health and wellbeing: 1. To fill nutritional gaps As mentioned, it can be challenging to get all the necessary nutrients from food alone. Many people have busy lifestyles and may not have the time or resources to prepare well-rounded meals. Moreover, factors such as soil depletion, food processing, and cooking methods can all affect the nutrient content of our food. Taking a daily multivitamin or other targeted supplements can help fill any nutritional gaps and ensure that your body is getting the nutrients it needs to function optimally. 2. To support immune function Vitamins and minerals play an essential role in maintaining a healthy immune system. For example, vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting properties, while zinc helps support the production of immune cells. Studies have shown that supplementing with certain vitamins and minerals can reduce the risk of infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems. 3. To support bone health Calcium and vitamin D are critical for bone health, as they help support the formation and maintenance of healthy bones. However, many people don't get enough of these nutrients, which can increase the risk of osteoporosis and other bone-related conditions. Taking a calcium and vitamin D supplement can help ensure that your bones are getting the support they need. 4. To support overall wellbeing In addition to their specific roles in various bodily processes, vitamins and minerals can also help support overall wellbeing. For example, B vitamins are known for their ability to boost energy levels and reduce stress, while magnesium is essential for muscle relaxation and can help promote restful sleep. By supplementing with these nutrients, you can support your body's natural processes and help promote optimal health and wellbeing. While supplements can be beneficial for many people, it's important to note that they should not replace a healthy diet. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats should always be the foundation of good nutrition. However, supplementing with vitamins and minerals can help ensure that your body is getting the nutrients it needs to function at its best. In conclusion, supplementing with vitamins and minerals can be an important component of a healthy lifestyle. By filling any nutritional gaps and supporting various bodily processes, these nutrients can help promote optimal health and wellbeing.

Lion's Mane: A Fascinating and Nutritious Mushroom Lion's Mane, also known as Hericium erinaceus, is a mushroom with a unique appearance that resembles a lion's mane. This mushroom is not only visually impressive but is also highly valued for its potential health benefits. Lion's Mane mushroom has been used in traditional medicine for centuries in China, Japan, and Korea. It has been claimed to have numerous medicinal properties, such as enhancing cognitive function, reducing inflammation, and improving gut health. Here are some of the potential health benefits of Lion's Mane: Enhances cognitive function: Lion's Mane mushroom contains compounds that may stimulate the growth of nerve cells and enhance the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that promotes the growth and survival of neurons. Studies have shown that Lion's Mane can improve cognitive function, including memory and focus. Reduces inflammation: Chronic inflammation is associated with many chronic diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Lion's Mane mushroom has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and prevent chronic diseases. Boosts immune system: Lion's Mane contains polysaccharides that have been shown to enhance the immune system by stimulating the production of immune cells. Supports gut health: Lion's Mane contains prebiotic properties that can improve gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. May have anti-cancer properties: Some studies suggest that Lion's Mane mushroom may have anti-cancer properties, including the ability to inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells. There are several ways to consume Lion's Mane mushroom, including as a supplement, in teas or coffees, or in cooked dishes. Supplements are a convenient and easy way to consume Lion's Mane, and they are available in various forms, such as capsules, powders, or extracts. While Lion's Mane is generally considered safe, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any new supplements, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications. In conclusion, Lion's Mane mushroom is a fascinating and nutritious food that offers many potential health benefits. While more research is needed to fully understand its health effects, including this mushroom in your diet may help support overall health and well-being.

Choline is a nutrient that plays a crucial role in the functioning of the human body. It is an essential nutrient that must be obtained through diet or supplements because the body cannot produce it in sufficient amounts. Choline is a type of B vitamin and is involved in many important processes in the body, including brain development, nerve function, liver health, and muscle movement. Sources of Choline Choline can be found in a variety of foods, including eggs, meat, fish, dairy products, and some vegetables. Egg yolks are particularly rich in choline, providing about 115 mg per egg. Beef liver is also a good source of choline, providing over 300 mg per 3-ounce serving. Other sources of choline include salmon, chicken, broccoli, and peanuts. Functions of Choline Choline has several important functions in the body. It is a precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is involved in many aspects of cognitive function, including memory, learning, and attention. Choline also plays a role in the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine, a key component of cell membranes. Choline is also important for liver health. It helps to transport fat out of the liver and prevent the buildup of fat in the liver, which can lead to liver damage. Choline also plays a role in muscle movement and can help to prevent muscle damage and fatigue. Choline and Pregnancy Choline is particularly important during pregnancy, as it is involved in brain development. Studies have shown that mothers who consume higher amounts of choline during pregnancy have children with better cognitive function than those who consume lower amounts. Choline supplementation during pregnancy has also been shown to reduce the risk of neural tube defects. Choline and Cognitive Function Choline has been studied for its potential role in improving cognitive function in adults. Some studies have suggested that choline supplementation may improve memory and attention in healthy adults, particularly in combination with other nutrients such as vitamin B12. Choline and Cardiovascular Health Choline has also been studied for its potential role in cardiovascular health. Some studies have suggested that choline intake may be inversely associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease, particularly in women. Conclusion Choline is an important nutrient that plays a critical role in many aspects of human health. It is essential for brain development, nerve function, liver health, and muscle movement. Choline can be obtained from a variety of foods, including eggs, meat, fish, dairy products, and some vegetables. Choline supplementation may be beneficial for some individuals, particularly pregnant women and those looking to improve cognitive function.

There is no doubt you have heard about this powerful protein called Collagen; and how it has rapidly become one of the most sought-after supplements on the wellness market and interest is expected to continue rising. Which raises a big question, Why Collagen? What is so special about the product and is there something we need to know? Today, I am going to be chatting all about Collagen - it’s benefits, as well as it’s possible cautions and if this is something, we should be looking at investing in as we get older. What is Collagen? Collagen is one of the bodies most abundant proteins, contributing to 25 – 35% of the whole body’s protein content. It is consisting of amino acids bound together to form a triple helix of elongated fibril known as a collagen helix. It is mostly found in connective tissue and is always working hard to support Tissues, ligaments, bones and so much more! Did you know There are also at least 16 types of collagen, with four of them being the main types of collagen: Type I - 90% of the body’s collagen and is made of densely packed fibres. It provides structure to skin, bones, tendons, fibrous cartilage, connective tissue, and teeth. Type II - Consists more loosely packed fibres and found in elastic cartilage, which cushions your joints. Type III - Supports the structure of muscles, organs, and arteries. Type IV - Helps with filtration and is found in the layers of your skin. Therefore, in simple terms Collagen is the glue that helps hold the body together and as you age, your body produces less and lower quality collagen. It is said that from birth to the age of approximately 20, our collagen levels gradually increase, and from 20 - 25 an optimum level of collagen is maintained. However, after the age of 25 research and studies have shown drastic drops in collagen and therefore, Collagen Supplements are encouraged. Which bodes the question when should one take a collagen supplement? - This depends entirely on the individual, as you can take collagen supplements as early as you would like. However, it has been said that for an effective anti-aging plan, an individual can begin after the age 21. Now, let us take a closer look at some of these benefits that this super protein offers. Collagen’s Benefits: Because it makes up so many critical parts of our bodies, collagen is not only beneficial but essential to maintaining good health. Bone health: Did you know your bones are mostly made of collagen? And as you age, your bones become less dense and more brittle, breaking more easily, and taking longer to heal. Therefore, Studies have shown that daily collagen supplements can help make your bones denser and slow the aging process, which makes them brittle. Resulting in it assisting your body to produce new bone. It is just as essential as Calcium for health bone health, formation, and maintenance! Skin health: Collagen is the most abundant protein in skin, making up an impressive 75-80% of the organ. Along with elastic tissue, collagen is found in the dermis, or middle layer, of skin that gives it its fullness and plumpness. Collagen can improve skin moisture, tone, and increase overall hydration and elasticity. Collagen products have also been known to have antioxidant properties, which aid in protecting the skin by limiting the production of free radicals, which can damage skin cells. Therefore, these powdery drinks could help repair damaged skin, since antioxidants promise environmental protection and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as the texture of the skin. It is also interesting to know that some studies have been conducted in 2016, had shown that collagen peptide supplements increase skin hydration after eight weeks and increase collagen density in the dermis after four weeks. Topical creams, such as vitamin A-based retinoids and peptides, can assist in boosting the production of your skin's natural collagen. Hair Health: While more men go bald, many women also experience hair loss or thinning as they age. There can be many reasons behind hair loss, However, one significant cause for hair loss is the lack of collagen. If there is a decline in collagen, the hair begins to lose its suppleness and thickness, including the health of the scalp. Collagen aids hair health by providing the necessary nutrients, strength and moisture required to sustain healthy hair. Collagen also improves blood circulation thereby sending sufficient nutrients to the hair follicles and reducing hair loss, as well as boosting hair growth and fullness. Along with this Collagen also improves moisture content of the hair and aids in preventing fizziness, breakage and splits ends. Collagen can help greying hair – Collagen provides a constant dose of essential amino acids to the hair follicle leading to a stronger structure. The follicular structure is responsible for providing your hair with its colour and if the collagen levels are high, this will automatically reduce greying. Collagen peptides are also much easier to digest, and therefore offer quicker results than compared to other hair loss pills. Nail Health: Another incredible benefit of Collagen is improved nail growth and texture due to collagen peptide powder providing the amino acid, arginine. Collagen peptides contain 18 of the 20 amino acids. Arginine is one of them. Although there are five amino acids in collagen peptides that have more mg per serving than arginine, it is this amino acid that promotes nail growth as it helps supply the nail bed with nutrients and better blood flow. Researchers have also stated in past studies; that the peptides (which are broken down collagen molecules) contain free amino acids. To which provide the building block for the formation of dermal extracellular matrix (ECM is three-dimensional network consisting of extracellular macromolecules and minerals, such as collagen, enzymes, glycoproteins, and hydroxyapatite that provide structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells.) proteins for the epidermal structure and act as bioactive messengers, activating different signalling pathways and stimulating dermal and epidermal metabolism. Joint Health: As you age, so do your joints. This means the cartilage in your joints begins to dissolve and this means articular cartilage no longer functions effectively. This contributes, in part, to the joint stiffness and the movement limitations characteristic of patients with osteoarthritis. However, Researchers have stated that Collagen Peptides (partially broken-down collagen) can aid in cartilage maintenance and act as a mild pain reliever for those with osteoarthritis and improve joint function. Collage Peptides have been recommended as they can be better absorbed by as much as 95%, and then distributed to tissues throughout the body. Once these collagen pieces reach the skin or cartilage, they stimulate repair and rejuvenation of tissues through: Directly activating fibroblasts and chondrocytes, stimulating them to increase their production of collagen and other connective tissue components. Or Immune system cells recognize the collagen fragments and activate a process that stimulates fibroblasts, further energizing their production of collagen and other connective-tissue proteins. It is important to note that it may take up to three to five months of daily treatment before you see these improvements. Muscle Health: Collagen peptide powders also provide some protein. Not as high an amount as a Whey or vegan protein but acombination of collagen and strength training could potentially help increase muscle strength, aid in repairing muscles and may even speed up recovery time from injuries. Therefore, making Collagen the perfect post-workout drink! General Health: Collagen can help your body burn fat. So if you’re looking to support your New Year’s fitness goals, include collagen in your game plan! Collagen also supports heart health, gut health, and healthy liver function. Supplementing with this power-packed supplement is a great way to support your body and promote healthy aging. Hydrolysed Collagen Peptide Supplements: Collagen really is an incredible little protein, helping us in many ways we might not even realise and personally I absolutely love taking it as a supplement. There are many collagen Supplements out there that are good. However, Life Health SA’s Collagen Pro Range is one I cannot live without. I take both their Capsules and their Superfood as I enjoy taking both, But I have trailed each individually and they both provide incredible results. Life Health SA’s Collagen Pro Superfood does provide more added vitamins and minerals to assist general health and does contain more collagen. Life Health SA’s Collagen Pro Capsules have added aminos and Vitamin C. A single serving of 2 Capsules provides you with: 1000mg of hydrolysed collagen peptides / 100mg of Vitamin c / 50mg of Essential Amino Blend. I take 2 Capsules nightly to aid my body through rejuvenating during my sleep cycle. Life Health SA’s Collagen pro Superfood (Blueberry Flavour – A Plain version is launching hopefully in March) contains added Protein, Vitamin C, B1, B2, B5, B6 and an essential amino blend. A single serving of 1 scoop (17g) provide you with: 10000mg Hydrolysed collagen peptides / 250mg Vitamin C / 60mg Essential amino blend / 6.1mg B5 (100% Daily Value) / 1.36mg B6 (100% Dv) / 1.33mg B2 (100% DV) / 1.17mg B1 (100% DV). I take 1 scoop with 200-300ml of water and drink it post – workout or during my workout. Nutrients that increase collagen production: All collagen starts off as procollagen. Your body makes procollagen by combining two amino acids — glycine and proline. This process uses vitamin C. Vitamin C. Large amounts are found in citrus fruits, bell peppers, and strawberries. Proline. Large amounts are found in egg whites, wheat germ, dairy products, cabbage, asparagus, and mushrooms. Glycine. Large amounts are found in pork skin, chicken skin, and gelatine, but glycine is also found in various protein-containing foods. Copper. Large amounts are found in organ meats, sesame seeds, cocoa powder, cashews, and lentils. In addition, your body needs high quality protein that contains the amino acids needed to make new proteins. Meat, poultry, seafood, dairy, legumes, and tofu are all excellent sources of amino acids. Things that damage collagen: Perhaps it’s even more important to avoid the following collagen-destroying behaviours: Eating too much sugar and refined carbs. Sugar interferes with collagen’s ability to repair itself. Minimize your consumption of added sugar and refined carbs. Getting too much sunshine. Ultraviolet radiation can reduce collagen production. Avoid excessive sun exposure. Smoking. Smoking reduces collagen production. This can impair wound healing and lead to wrinkles. Some autoimmune disorders, such as lupus, can also damage collagen. DISCLAIMER: If you are considering taking a Collagen Supplement although side effects a rare, and you have a chronic disease, are taking chronic medication, Breastfeeding or Pregnant - Please consult a Doctor prior to doing so.