Collagen supplements have surged in popularity in recent years with many different brands and variations available on shelf, each offering its own set of results and promises. Selvan Naicker, Brand Manager for OsteoEze® suggests that before joining the collagen trend it is essential to consider whether your body needs it, and if so, what benefits are you seeking from the supplement? Additionally, understanding which type of collagen will best suit your needs is crucial. As with the rise of any trend, many people are left questioning whether they should take collagen and how to choose the right one for their goals.
“Collagen is a vital protein found in your body, providing structure to skin, bones, and joints,” explains Naicker. “When it comes to your joints, collagen helps to maintain their strength, flexibility, and overall health. However, as we age, the natural production of collagen slows down, leading to a loss of this essential protein, which can negatively impact your joint health.”
Aging is a natural occurrence, and as we age our collagen production naturally decreases, starting in our mid-20s. By the time we are in our 40s and 50s, collagen levels can significantly decline, contributing to stiffening of joints and leading to conditions like osteoarthritis, where the cartilage that cushions the joints wears down. Hormonal changes can also accelerate the loss of collagen, especially during menopause. Oestrogen plays a role in maintaining collagen levels, and as oestrogen production decreases, collagen levels follow suit, making joints more susceptible to pain and injury.
“Although we cannot stop the natural decrease in collagen production, we can manage unnatural causes that can have the same effect,” comments Naicker. He continues by saying simple changes to our lifestyle can help slow down unnecessary collagen loss, and at the same time allow for our bodies to stay in great shape for longer.
Changing our diet is an important step when it comes to slowing down collagen loss. Naicker highlights the below dietary changes that can make a difference:
Incorporating food into your diet that supports collagen production. Food containing vitamin C, proline (found in egg whites and dairy), and glycine (present in chicken skin and gelatine) are excellent additions to your diet.
Food rich in antioxidants such as berries, leafy greens and nuts can help to neutralise free radicals, protecting your body’s collagen from damage. Free radicals caused by environmental factors such as pollution, smoking and poor diet can weaken the collagen in the joints over time. Reducing alcohol consumption is also essential, as excessive drinking can impair collagen synthesis and reduce nutrient absorption.
Keeping your body hydrated is important for collagen production. Cartilage is primarily composed of water. Dehydration can lead to stiff joints and reduced collagen production. Drinking water throughout the day can help to keep your joints lubricated and support overall collagen health.
If you find that you are prone to inflammation, an anti-inflammatory diet can help provide relief. Increase foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids in your diet such as fish and flaxseed and stay away from foods high in processed sugars and refined carbohydrates.
Naicker says,
“along with the changes to your diet, using a supplement that contains the correct collagen types for joint health can provide you with extra support when managing the decline of collagen around your joints.”
There are 28 types of collagens, with the most common types being I, II, III, IV and V, each having its own function in the body. There is also a lesser-known collagen type, type X which plays a significant role in bone formation and joint health. When it comes to joint health, the best collagen combination in a supplement would be type I, V and X. OsteoEze® Platinum+’s formulation contains Ovomet® which includes type I, V and X collagen to help protect the tendons around the joints improving elasticity, joint mobility, and function. OsteoEze® Platinum+ also reduces discomfort caused by exercise and helps to relieve pain and stiffness from seven days.
Regular exercise also helps to maintain joint flexibility and promote collagen production, but it is important to listen to our bodies. Only partaking in high-impact activities can accelerate joint wear and tear. Adding in low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, or yoga into your exercise regime will help keep your joints moving without over-stressing them. Strength training is also beneficial, as it strengthens the muscles surrounding your joints, reducing strain.
“Losing collagen in your joints is a natural part of aging. But by making proactive choices – such as eating a collagen-boosting diet, staying active, and managing inflammation – you can slow down collagen loss and protect your joints for the long term,” concludes Naicker.
Maintaining these healthy habits can help you stay flexible, reduce joint pain, and enjoy an active lifestyle well into your later years.
S0 OSTEOEZE® PLATINUM PLUS. Per capsule: Ovomet® Eggshell membrane 300 mg. D.3.5 Connective Tissue Medicine: Other - Health Supplement. This unregistered medicine has not been evaluated by the SAHPRA for its quality, safety or intended use. Nativa (Pty) Ltd. www.nativa.co.za. 260 Cradock Avenue, Lyttelton, Centurion, 0157, Gauteng, South Africa. Customer Care Tel Number: +27 860 628 482. Customer Care e-mail: health@nativa.co.za.
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