Collagen has always been big in the East. By using the whole animal as opposed to discarding the collagen-rich parts, their diets are naturally enriched with collagen potent food and is also widely incorporated in food and beverages. It took a while for the culture to reach us here in the West but as we saw the beneficial effects not only before our eyes in hair, skin and nails but also internally to our joints and gut health; it seems this new adopted culture is here to stay.
It’s important to note that not all collagen is created equal. To delve deeper into the booming world of ingestible and topical collagen, we talk to Kelly Dobson, Creative Lead of New Zealand’s key collagen brand, Adashiko.
Adashiko is meticulous when it comes to sourcing and processing to ensure high performing efficacy. The collagen comes from their pharmaceutical company in Japan who have the most advanced technique for developing collagen in the world and the quality is second to none.
First, they hydrolyse the collagen and refine it into a tiny molecular weight known as a Dalton size. Adashiko’s marine collagen is processed right down to 3000 Da to make it bioavailable for our body. This is when the magic happens. The collagen is absorbed into the body and is offered to where it is needed first. If there is an injury, skin ailment, or if you suffer from a leaky gut or arthritis, it is quick to focus on repairing compromised body parts.
Collagen forms the building blocks of our lives and is responsible for all important structural tissues in the body. It makes up 25-35% of the total protein content in our bodies and plays an essential role in the health of joints, ligaments and tendons, bones, teeth, skin, blood vessels and digestive system.
While there are 28 different types of collagen, Type 1 collagen is the principal type that is found in our bodies and what you will predominantly find in collagen products to visibly improve skin, hair and nail health. After the age of 25, collagen stores begin to decline in the body. Replenishing it with a premium pure collagen supplement is such an easy way to maintain full body health, glowing radiant skin and a youthful healthy appearance. It boosts skin cell turnover, which is how we see a dramatic reduction of inflammation in dermatitis and eczema as well as faded scarring. Also, as collagen is a protein that is safe for all ages, children who suffer from sensitised skin problems can benefit hugely from taking collagen.
“We believe in a holistic approach to health and beauty which means it comes down to how you treat yourself as a whole. Everything works synergistically from diet to moving your body, stress factors and so on. Balance is important here,” Kelly Dobson, Adashiko Creative Lead says.
In line with this vision, their affordable skincare collection offers thought out formulas sans all the unnecessary additives such as fragrance, colouring, and preservatives. With a tiny molecule size of 500 Da, the collagen is absorbed into the skin and it also acts as a humectant to keep skin hydrated and plump.
To boost the effects of a collagen-infused lifestyle, it’s important to include protein-rich foods like meat, eggs, fish, seafood, beans and dairy to supply your body with a range of amino acids needed to make collagen. Bone broth and gelatin is an incredibly easy way to increase your collagen intake.
While a healthy diet is all well and good, it’s also critical to note that unhealthy habits need to be broken. Smoking, alcohol, sugar, saturated fats and inflammatory foods need to be completely cut and supported with a positive stress-free lifestyle and regular exercise.
Collagen boosting foods to snack on:
- Kiwis
- Berries
- Almonds
- Avocados
- Carrots
- Dark Green Vegetables