A Note on Supplements
In our constant endeavor for health and longevity we come across many supplements that we’d like to try. If you’re lucky, you get one that actually works and gets you the results that you are going for. A skeptical attitude pays off when looking at all the supplements available out there and when you find one that works it’s really great to be able to tell someone how it helped you and what actually happened when you took it. In my experience these instances only come along once in a while because the majority of the supplements out there are formulated so they don’t absorb optimally or they’re just put together wrong.
Collagen: Your Body’s Secret to Youthful Resilience
Let’s cut to the chase: hydrolyzed collagen should be a staple for anyone aiming to boost their overall health, particularly for athletes who put their bodies through the wringer. The primary reason is its high concentration of glycine—an amino acid abundant in small mammals but less so in larger ones. As a result, the bigger the animal, the less efficiently its body synthesizes glycine.
So, why is this an issue? Glycine plays a vital role in collagen production, which is responsible for maintaining youthful skin and supple, flexible tissues. Our ligaments, bones, and tendons all benefit from an ample supply of collagen, and glycine is crucial, making up a third of its composition.
Moreover, glycine helps to stabilize blood sugar levels (particularly useful for type 2 diabetics) and enables the body to utilize the powerful antioxidant glutathione. This relationship with such a potent antioxidant highlights glycine’s significance in detoxification.
Collagen and Glycine: A Powerhouse of Benefits
Incorporating hydrolyzed collagen in your routine can help improve sleep quality if taken in doses of 3-4 grams before bedtime. Glycine and collagen also work harmoniously with antioxidants like vitamin C, which aids in delivering glycine to soft tissues. If you’re an athlete, consider incorporating natural sources of collagen, such as animal skin, bone broth, and organ meat, into your diet, alongside collagen supplements to ensure your joints and tendons remain strong and healthy.
Great Lakes Gelatin offers competitive pricing and extensive information on their products and processes.
Closing notes and Toxicity
Both collagen and glycine are safe to consume, with minimal concerns regarding their potential risks. Although some sources mention an increased risk of kidney stones, this claim lacks reliable clinical or empirical evidence. By incorporating collagen into your routine, you’ll reap the benefits of overall health improvement and glycine’s protective properties.
For further information on glycine, head to examine.com’s Glycine page, where you’ll find a wealth of scientific data on its benefits and research.
Stay healthy,
J
