If you think you should be supplemented with collagen, you are right!  

I can testify to the amazing results of Verisol Hydrolyzed Collagen, the benefits of this oral powder supplementation beautifies my skin, strengthens my nails and hair, supports my joints by decreasing stiffness and pain which was affected by my Lupus. 

All collagens are not the same, so do not be fooled by labels or unverified consumer likes on products. As an RN and certified health coach, I am completely committed to doing my due diligence in researching product claims in the supplementation and cosmetic world.  As a member of consumer Labs (an independent company that researches products) and following various clinical trials, I understand which forms of collagen deliver the best benefits. I believe and can attest that oral supplementation of hydrolyzed collagen in a powder form is a MUST! As of today, my research and product use for topical collagen has not gained my support, but I am always open to new knowledge in this area. 

So, what’s the Gist of it all!   What is Collagen and why do you need it? Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body. It accounts for about 30% of total protein. It is the primary building block of your body’s skin, muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments and other connective tissue. Collagen’s key role is to provide structure, strength and support throughout the body. 

As you age, collagen begins to decrease starting at the age of 30. That’s right 30! There is no specific blood test to measure collagen levels, but there are signs and symptoms which include skin that’s wrinkled, crepey or sagging, hallowing in around your eyes and face, stiffer less flexible tendons and ligaments, joint pain and gastrointestinal problems due to thinning in the lining of the digestive tract. 

Even thou after the age of 60 collagen readily decreases there is no need to Panic! It is never too late to start taking collagen. I am 66 plus years and love my collagen and all its benefits. 

Collagen is essential for midlife and beyond years. Data shows that those 55+ see dramatic benefits from collagen across the board, skin and especially in their bones, joints, hair and overall inflammation. 

There is significant evidence of less joint pain with collagen consumption, from athletes to aging population. There are several auto immune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma and dermatomyositis that are known to damage collagen, due to the body’s immune system attacking its own connective tissue. I have Lupus and endure a high level of physical activity and found collagen supplementation has greatly decreased my joint pain along with creating radiant skin. If you have a medical condition, I always advise you to discuss with your medical, holistic or functional medicine provider questions and /or concerns regarding supplementation.  

It is not an overnight success but with the right hydrolyzed collagen you will begin to see results within two weeks. Remember anything worthwhile takes a little time. It is so easy to drop an unflavored tablespoon in your morning coffee, tea, or beverage and let the repair work begin. As part of my daily healthy skin and body care, I include the amazing Besha collagen peptides in my morning coffee. There is no taste, no clump, it’s easy peasy. I have tried several collagen peptides over the years, but this one has given me the best results and number 1 rated by consumer labs. I receive so many compliments on my skin and hair and I feel I owe a lot of it to Besha!  I was sharing my prized find to strangers and friends who were excited by their personal results that I decided to add it to my retail therapy shop, where the proceeds benefit charitable organizations eliminating hunger worldwide.

How can I naturally rebuild collagen? 
First supplement, my suggested collagen peptide supplement is listed below. The only 4 foods high in collagen are certain organ meats, meat on a bone, eggs and bone broth.  One of my favorite winter afternoon drinks is bone broth. (In fact I had a cup writing this blog) Bone broth has one of the highest levels of collagen, so you may opt for a cup of bone broth instead, of choosing that afternoon coffee. I love Kettle and Fire bone broth, the Thai and lemongrass is my favorite. I also love Dr. Kelly’s bone broth for on-the-go packets. The to go packets are great for traveling. So to be clear organ meats, meat on a bone, eggs and bone broth contain actual collagen and should not be confused with vegetables and fruit that boost collagen production or promote synthesis in your body. Enjoying a nutrient rich Mediterranean diet will not only support collagen but contribute to overall health.

It is important to avoid habits that damage and decrease collagen such as poor sleep, over sun exposure, smoking and eating too much sugar, which can further emphasize signs of aging. Collagen can function as an antioxidant and fight damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals form in the body in response to stress, environmental pollutants, smoking, alcohol, poor diet and many other factors. If there’s too many free radicals the body enters a state of oxidative stress, which can lead to cell DNA damage and many chronic diseases, as well as advanced aging. According to the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, oxidative stress is harmful to hair follicles and is one of the reasons why elderly adults are sensitive to excessive hair loss. As such, collagen supplementation could have a beneficial effect on hair growth and maintenance.

WHY hydrolyzed collagen and what does it mean?
It means the collagen has been broken down into smaller easy to process particles (called peptides) allowing for better absorption. Another term is hydrolysate which refers to hydrolyzed. Not to bore you, but clinical trials validate the results, products will deliver. 

The most Important DATA is clinical trials. The best evidence supporting the use of collagen in aging skin is Verisol  (Gelita AG) a collagen peptide made of hydrolyzed porcine-derived (from pigs). VERISOL has a unique patented characteristic that delivers superior results compared to other collagen peptides. “Pre-clinical trials with human skin fibroblasts have demonstrated, that not all collagen peptides have the same stimulatory effect,” states Lipp. The most notable study focused on crow’s feet, wrinkles around the eyes of women ages 45 to 65. At four weeks of treatment 2.5 grams of Verisol daily, eye wrinkle volume was reduced by 7.2% and in eight weeks 20.1%.  These results are outstanding. 

The results are clear: VERISOL®️ has been proven in clinical studies to noticeably improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, improve skin surface structure, and even reduce cellulite. VERISOL®️ has also been clinically tested to improve hair thickness and support nail growth, unlike most collagens on the market.

I have chosen the Besha verisol collagen peptide due to, it is the highest quality collagen you will find in the market. Its collagen peptides are a patented formula developed in a German lab and scientifically tested to rejuvenate from within. Besha collagen peptides are digested and absorbed by the body quickly for maximum benefits. It improves hair, skin, nails, joints, ligaments and tendon health. Besha collagen peptides are soluble in hot or cold liquids, smoothies and even baked goods. My second choice is the Sports research organic Collagen, love the cocoa flavored as a substitute for hot chocolate. 

Collagen benefits inner health and outer beauty. The facts and results speak for themselves. As more clinical studies are conducted, it is becoming more evident the crucial role of collagen for the young and old and its value to healthy living. I believe it’s like Vitamin D3, as more people discover its benefits, it will become a staple in our daily lives. My suggestion is to try it and allow 30 to 60 days to see the results, I believe you will be happy you did. You can always send me an email if you have any questions, I am here to support.    

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