My Anti-Aging Secret Weapon

Most of us over 25 have some kind of skin regimen we follow in hopes of holding back the hands of time just a bit longer. I love my daily facial massage of coconut oil, followed by doTerra Frankincense essential oil, but I am sensible enough to know that no matter what I apply topically, good skin and well-being definitely start from the inside out. Which is why I try to hydrate adeqately, eat a diet rich in dark leafy greens, high-quality protein, healthy fats and get my beauty sleep.

Many of us have heard drinking bone broth may be one of the most nourshing things you can add to your diet. Why? Bone broth is made from bones which are filled with collagen. Collagen is the precursor to gelatin. Dietary sources of gelatin-rich broths have almost disappeared from our modern diet, but not so long ago humans used to eat lots of gelatin-rich broths, soups, and things like headcheese and calves feet. Collagen and gelatin are made from amino acids which are the building blocks of protein. Collagen is the key structural protein found in our bodies which is intergrally involved in the producton of strong hair, nails, tendons, bones, muscle and keeping your skin smooth.

I fell in love with collagen hydrolysate several years ago and now I am sharing this unique superfood with you. I just recieved 8 pounds of grass fed beef collagen and we will have it on our shelves this week!! I don't go a day without it and I have seen and felt huge improvments in my health since I started taking it. The list is long with accolades for collagen but here are a few of my favorites!

1. Collagen For Joint And Bone Strength

A high percentage of our bone mass is made up of collagen. It has significant control over how strong or weak our joints are. The body's natural ability to repair supporting connective tissue (bone, ligaments, cartilage, skin, hair and nails) diminishes after the age of 25. Collagen provides the source in supplying additional amounts of amino acids like glycine, lysine, and proline. These are specifically needed by the body to build connective tissue structures and to regulate the functions of the cells. Hydrolyzed collagen is the same collagen found naturally in bones, skin, and cartilage. It is a bioactive product containing 90% protein easily assimilated by the human body. It promotes rapid cell growth produces synovial fluids to first lubricate joints, then build tissue. This leads to less aches and pains, increased range of motion, ability to increase strength and intensity of exercise.

2.Collagen Helps Your Digestive System

A healthy digestive system is the base for a happy and energetic life. A weak digestive system can result in feeling sluggish and lethargic. This can demotivate you and additionally cause or agrivave stomach pains, creating a cycle where you don't feel like exercising. Collagen can contribute to a healthier, less agitated system as it soothes and repairs the intestines with the help of the amino acid glycine. This builds a smoother protective guard in the digestive track. Think of spackle for your leaky gut!

3 Collagen For Weight Loss

The purified, high-protein content of hydrolysed collagen is known to be an effective, natural appetite suppressant, in which many clinical studies have proven the satiating effect to promote weight loss. Additionally, unlike some weight-loss-promoting products, hydrolysed collagen contains no fillers, hormones, acids and is not produced with any forms of harsh processing that may affect the normal functioning of your body. Hydrolysed collagen has also proven to show a decrease in fats, avoiding clogging of the arteries and increased organ support. Individuals can therefore benefit from losing weight by consuming edible collagen, due to a lessened desire to snack and helping the body feel naturally fuller for longer… without the nasty side effects!

BONUS: Got cellulite/loose skin? Consuming Collagen protein may reduce both the elasticity of loose skin and the visible appearance of cellulite. This is due to the collagen molecule being responsible for making the connective tissue in your skin, therefore it's able to thicken the skin and camouflage any irregularities! I can say that I have totally noticed my mommy skin become firmer and less raisin like (TMI)!

4. Collagen For Muscle Growth And Improved Cardiovascular Performance

Collagen is a powerful molecule that promotes a multitude of benefits consuming Hydrolysed Collagen in your daily routine can be done through smoothies, protein shakes, mixed into pancakes, coffee, tea, protein bites etc. It has the incredible ability to aid the promotion of a natural source of creatine in the body – this is an amino acid essential for building new muscle post-exercise and provide bouts of energy. The arginine within the hydrolyzed collagen also promotes and maintains increased muscle mass, therefore it helps to increase physical performance through repeated bouts of exercise.

5. Collagen For Strong Hair, Nails & Teeth

Peeling and splitting nails could be from a lack of collagen in your diet. Collagen protein is also the building block for your figernails, hair and teeth. It is necessary for keeping each strand of hair strong and thick. You may not see immediate results with your hair as you increase collagen in your diet but it will impact the fresh healthy hair that's growing, so over time you will see an improvment.

Tooth health is directly related to diet and proper nutrition, to really cure tooth decay you have to heal all parts of the teeth not just clean the enamel with brushing. Like our skin, the teeth have to heal from the inside out too. Gelatin helps us absorb more nutrients by healing our guts. This provides the building blocks for repair and regeneration.

The benefits go on, but the truth is adding hydrolysate collagen to your daily diet is super easy and can even be the reason to get up in morning!

My favorite way to get my morning dose of collagen.

Three Leaves version of BulletProof Coffee

Brew your favorite flavor of Bella Rosa coffee (I use a 4 cup french press)

In a 1/2 gallon mason jar (or other glass jar) add

3 tablespoons organic coconut oil (great for thyroid health too)

1/2 cup full fat canned coconut milk ( I use BPA free Native Forest)

1/2 cup filitered water

1 teaspoon vanilla

1-2 tablespoons of grass fed collagen hydrolysate

Pour the hot coffee over all the goodness and give it a good buzz with a staff mixer (imersion blender).

Serves 2 adults about 2 cups each

OMG! it's creamy (without dairy), filling, warm, and so delicious!

The tasteless powder can be mixed into hot, warm, or cold liquids, added to soups, smoothies, juices or protein bars. With 13g of protein in two tablespoons it is great for picky eaters, elderly, kids. people training or recovering.

Come by Three Leaves Larder this week and give it a try for yourself! Wednesday 3-6 Thursday 11-2