Blog
5 Ways to Play Like a Kid This Summer
Summertime and the livin’ is easy. No matter how many years removed you are from your childhood’s carefree, barefoot adventure, there’s something nostalgic about the season that brings out the giddy, energetic kid in all of us. From picnic-perfect dishes and lawn games to beach trips and summer clothing (hello flip-flops!), these are perennial symbols of summer that take us back to simpler times, like building sandcastles and enjoying barbecues with family, friends and neighbors. These recurring, summertime trips down memory lane are really healthy for us, according to a study showing that feeling nostalgic activated the reward center of the brain. Brain scans of participants revealed that brain regions associated with memory and reward lit up when shown photos related to common childhood experiences.* With so many opportunities for enjoyment, you don’t have to plan too hard to make this summer your healthiest yet! Here are a few ways to let go and tap into your inner child (and get healthy without trying): Get in the water Summer isn’t complete without time spent in the water, whether the beach, a lake or river. The number of calories you can burn swimming is deceptively high for such a gentle, low-intensity activity. In 30 minutes, you can burn about 200 calories at only a moderate pace. Take it up to a vigorous pace and burn about 350 calories. If you prefer to be on the water instead of in it, head to a recreational area where kayaks, canoes and standup paddle boards are available for rent. Hop on your bike Remember when you could spot the action in your neighborhood by where all the bikes were parked? The bicycle is summer’s official mode of transportation and also the healthiest, most fun way to get around. Instead of driving to run local errands, do them on your bike. For longer treks, gather the family for a ride on a rail trail or easy nature trail. But before you roll out, layer-on the sunscreen for skin protection against the summer sun’s intense UV rays. Overexposure can cause free radicals that break-down skin’s collagen structure, leading to premature sagging, wrinkling and dry, leathery texture. To maintain firmness and elasticity, add Collagen + Elastin to your summer skincare routine. It helps strengthen your skin’s collagen structure and elastin fibers with 2 key proteins found in skin. Enjoy cool foods This time of year, it’s easier to fill-up on lighter fare you may not typically crave in winter months, like big, leafy salads and a variety of tropical fruit and berries. Studies out of the University of Massachusetts and University of Georgia revealed that daily caloric intake naturally decreases by about 200 calories during summer. Fruit and veggies are full of nutrients and fiber, and their high water content also fill you up faster. Too hot to cook? Set-up a picnic-style spread of hummus, whole grain crackers, uncured deli slices, potato salad, sliced veggies and fresh fruit, like refreshing watermelon. Skip soda and enjoy unsweetened tea instead. For a refreshing pick-me-up in the morning or during the day, try this delicious, easy-to-make Iced Mocha Coffee recipe made especially for Body Kitchen. Stock-up on ice pops There’s nothing like waiting for the ice cream truck to roll down the street on a hot day! Summer is just not the same without cool, refreshing treats. While you may no longer have the same affinity for the artificially colored and flavored treats that ice cream trucks are known for, you can treat yourself to a small scoop of real ice cream made with pure ingredients, such as cream, milk and natural flavors. If your grown-up digestive system no longer has the same tolerance for dairy, you’re not alone. About 65% of people experience lactose intolerance.* And it can develop later in life, because as we age, we produce less lactase, the enzyme that breaks down sugar found in dairy. But that doesn’t mean you’ll be left out in the cold. You can still indulge in this cherished summer pastime by enjoying fruit bars and sorbets made with real fruit. Play ball! Summer weekends are made for barbecues and cookouts with family and neighbors, so it’s easy to pull together teams for a friendly game of anything – volleyball, kickball, softball – whatever gets everyone moving. If you have children, this is especially great for role modeling an active lifestyle while building memories that last a lifetime. By the close of summer, your photo album and memory bank will be full of memories to carry with you all year long, and you may even find yourself healthier and a few pounds lighter!
Taking Control of Your Seasonal Allergies and Respiratory Function with Supplements
If you suffer from hay fever, the arrival of allergy season can bring many unpleasant symptoms. While over-the-counter medications are available to control them, many people prefer a more natural approach. If you're one of them, this article will inform you about how the best allergy supplements can provide immune support and potentially reduce your symptoms. What Causes Seasonal Allergies? Seasonal allergies happen when the body mistakes proteins called allergens for a threat to your system. With seasonal allergies, mold, and pollen are the most common allergens, however, other things such as dust mites and pet dander can trigger allergy symptoms in some people as well. When you encounter something you're allergic to, your immune system goes into overdrive, creating antibodies known as immunoglobulin. These illness-fighting antibodies bind to the mast cells in the body, releasing a chemical called histamine. As histamine floods the body, an immune response leads to inflammation that prompts symptoms of seasonal allergies. What Are the Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies? Allergies or allergic rhinitis that occur seasonally can cause the following symptoms: Stuffy or runny nose Sneezing Itchy ears Itchy throat Itchy nose Itchy eyes Eye redness Watery eyes Healthcare providers diagnose seasonal allergies through skin tests and blood tests. Allergy testing can help you determine what specific allergens trigger your symptoms. How to Control Seasonal Allergies Naturally Controlling seasonal allergies naturally can involve self-care and supplements. Follow these tips to reduce symptoms this allergy season. Avoid Triggers Once you know the allergens cause your symptoms, you can take steps to reduce your exposure to them. For example, plan outdoor activities for the afternoon when pollen levels are lower if you're allergic to grass, weeds, or tree pollen. Pollen count reports can be beneficial for determining when it's best to stay indoors during allergy season. Promote Indoor Air Quality Controlling the number of allergens in the indoor air may help improve your symptoms. Use air conditioning throughout allergy season and consider investing in a dehumidifier to reduce the presence of mold and mildew—clean surfaces regularly with soap and water to reduce dust. Vacuum often with a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter and install HEPA filters in your heating and cooling system to remove fine particulates from the air. Try Supplements Dietary supplements that contain certain natural substances may make a difference in your allergy symptoms. Quercetin and N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (NAC) are generally considered two of the best supplements for allergies. Quercetin is an antioxidant found in grapes, berries, broccoli, onions, and other fruits and vegetables. Studies have found that Quercetin may act similarly to antihistamine medications commonly taken for seasonal allergies. The antioxidant may stop mast cells from releasing histamine and other inflammatory chemicals, making allergy symptoms less likely. NAC is a form of the amino acid l-cysteine. It's not found in many foods and is not typically a part of a regular diet. In the body, NAC serves as a precursor to l-glutathione. Sometimes called the master antioxidant, l-glutathione helps fortify the immune system against germs that cause illnesses and lessens the effects of damaging free radicals in pollutants and ultraviolet energy. Some evidence suggests that l-glutathione may help regulate the immune system to benefit people with allergies. Since NAC can be turned into l-glutathione, a supplement that contains the amino acid may help the body produce more l-glutathione. NAC may also be directly beneficial for allergy symptoms, as studies show that it could act as a mucolytic agent that breaks down mucus. When you experience inflammation due to allergies, your body naturally produces more mucus to protect tissues in your nasal passages and airways. Because NAC may help control mucus, it could ease symptoms like a runny nose and help you breathe easier to support healthy respiratory function. Discover Body Kitchen Mega NAC + Quercetin Body Kitchen Mega NAC + Quercetin makes it simple to benefit from both NAC and Quercetin. The supplement delivers both doses beneficial for supporting liver health and immune system function in clinical studies. The NAC and Quercetin also provide antioxidant protection to reduce the oxidation damage caused by free radicals contributing to aging. The effectiveness of allergy support supplements depends on your body using the key ingredients that they contain. That's why we include Bioperine in Body Kitchen Mega NAC + Quercetin. Derived from black pepper extract, Bioperine makes the NAC and Quercetin in our supplement easier for your body to absorb and utilize them. In clinical studies, it was shown to boost nutrient absorption and bioavailability by at least 30%. Learn more about Body Kitchen Mega NAC + Quercetin and order a bottle today.
How Do I Get Healthy-Looking Hair, Skin & Nails?
Your hair, skin, and nails dramatically impact your appearance. By prioritizing skin, nail, and hair health, you can look and feel better while lowering the likelihood of developing problems such as dry skin, premature signs of aging, hair thinning, and frequent nail breakage. Follow these tips to get healthy-looking hair, nails, and skin. Adopt a Healthy Regimen Your hair, nails, and skin require ongoing care to look their best. Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo designed for your hair type a few times weekly and follow up with a nourishing conditioner. Carefully choose polishes for your nails in order to limit the harsh chemicals applied and avoid artificial tips and treatments that damage the underlying nail. Use strengthening treatments and moisturize your cuticles and nails with body lotion after washing. A complete daily skin care regimen is also important. Begin with cleansing, then follow up with a toner and a moisturizer to support a healthy-looking complexion. Also, apply body lotion from head to toe after you bathe or shower while your skin is still slightly damp. Stay Hydrated Getting enough water and other fluids daily is essential for your hair, skin, nails, and overall health. Your healthcare provider can advise you on the amount to drink daily to support beauty and well-being. Protect Yourself Exposure to the sun's ultraviolet energy can damage hair, skin, and nail cells. To protect yourself, adapt the following regimen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 to your face daily. When outdoors for an extended period, apply 1 ounce of sunscreen to cover all exposed skin areas, including your hands and nails. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours, or more frequently, if you're swimming or sweating. Wear a hat to limit your hair and scalp's exposure to the sun. Use Supplements Specific vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients have been shown to support skin elasticity, strengthen hair and nails, and support healthy hair growth. Taking supplements increases your body's natural supply of these nutrients and vitamins for hair growth, nail support, and healthy skin. Some essential hair, skin, and nails supplements to consider include: Hydrolyzed Collagen Collagen is the protein most commonly found in the human body. In addition to serving as a vital component for connective tissue, collagen also promotes skin firmness by supporting overall body tissue. A hydrolyzed collagen supplement contains collagen protein that is broken down into building blocks called collagen peptides to help your body absorb the protein, convert it into amino acids and use the nutrients to produce more collagen. Elastin Elastin is another crucial structural protein. Its job is to promote skin elasticity. With its stretchy fibers, elastin helps skin return to its shape when you smile and frown. When elastin becomes damaged, due to free radicals, the environment or when production naturally slows with age, fine lines and wrinkles are more likely to occur. Keratin Keratin is the protein that makes up hair and nails. In addition, it's a component of the skin, blood vessels, and urinary tract. Studies show that keratin supplements may support hair growth and stronger nails. B Complex Vitamins The B vitamin complex is a group of essential vitamins that play a role in many processes. Biotin, niacin, pantothenic acid, and vitamin B6 all contribute to healthy hair, nails, and skin in some way. Deficiencies in these nutrients have been linked to issues regarding skin moisture retention and hair loss. Supplements can ensure that you get enough of these vital vitamins to support healthy hair, nails, and skin. Hyaluronic Acid Hyaluronic acid, or HA, is a substance that the body produces. It acts as insulating fluid for the joints and helps draw moisture into skin tissue to keep it supple and resilient. Can I Get the Benefits of Multiple Supplements without Taking Multiple Supplements? As you can see, many hair, skin, and nail supplement options exist, but you can still buy dozens of products in order to reap the beauty benefits. Body Kitchen Total Beauty is an all-in-one-supplement that delivers clinically effective doses of collagen, elastin, and keratin proteins as well as hyaluronic acid, biotin, pantothenic acid, niacin, vitamin B6, and other beneficial nutrients. The formula makes it easy to take a more complete approach to supplementation.
Which Supplement Can Help Hydrate My Skin While Supporting a Healthy Body?
You may have heard the saying that beauty comes from within. The idea comes from the beautiful aspects of your unique personality and the fact that healthy skin starts with providing your body with the nutrients needed to support and maintain skin cells. This concept misses the point that the same elements that support skin elasticity and optimal hydration levels can also positively impact the rest of your body. The right supplement can contribute to healthier skin and greater overall health and well-being. Do Any Supplements That Support a Healthy Body While Also Supporting Healthy Skin? It's possible to support overall health and healthy skin simultaneously with the proper supplement. Body Kitchen Collagen Enrich Skin + Joints contains a blend of ingredients that promote firmer, better-hydrated, and more youthful-looking skin while aiding in joint health and overall well-being. Its multi-action benefits come from its unique blend of collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid, trans-resveratrol, and silica. Read on to learn more about each of them. What Are Collagen Peptides? Collagen is the most plentiful protein in the human body. It contributes to skin elasticity and firmness by providing support for the upper layers of skin that you can see. In addition, it's a vital component of connective tissues like cartilage and ligaments. As we age, collagen production naturally slows down, affecting skin texture and joint health. Collagen supplements can give your body the raw materials needed to continue producing collagen. The highest quality products like Body Kitchen Collagen Enrich Skin + Joints feature collagen peptides, which have been broken down into building blocks so that the body can digest, absorb, and use it more efficiently. What Is Hyaluronic Acid? Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance that helps to insulate the joints. People often take it on its own to enhance joint mobility and aid in overall joint health. However, hyaluronic acid isn't just beneficial for connective tissue. The substance is also commonly used to help with skin hydration. Hyaluronic acid acts as a humectant, a substance that draws moisture into the skin and helps to lock it away. As a result, it can help restore and maintain a healthy skin barrier to reduce the risk of dryness. When you increase skin hydration, the tissue is better able to retain its shape as it stretches with your movements. This means that hyaluronic acid can play a role in helping you have more resilient skin due to its moisture retention benefits. What Is Trans-Resveratrol? Years of scientific research point to the fact that external factors contribute to the aging process. Namely, high-reactive particles called free radicals have been shown to damage cells and drive aging. These particles are all around us in ultraviolet energy and pollution. Our body produces substances called antioxidants to help counteract the effects of free radicals, and we can bolster these efforts by increasing our intake of antioxidants through food and supplements. Trans-resveratrol is one of the most widely researched antioxidants. Resveratrol is found in wine grapes and is shown to support heart and brain health due to its anti-inflammatory benefits. In addition, evidence suggests it may reduce cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and improve blood glucose control. While it potentially benefits the body, resveratrol may also help shield skin cells from the damaging free radicals that help give rise to lines and wrinkles. What Is Silica? Silica is a mineral that is present in many parts of the body. It's naturally found in foods, but many people don't get enough from diet alone. Research indicates that it may promote stronger, healthier hair and support cardiovascular health, healthy digestion, bone health, and cognitive health. For skin, silica helps stimulate cells called fibroblasts that release the form of collagen necessary to maintain healthy tissue. Promote Overall Health and Healthy Skin with Body Kitchen With the Body Kitchen Collagen Enrich Skin + Joints supplement, you don't have to prioritize your beauty goals over your health goals or vice versa. Each serving delivers collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid, trans-resveratrol, and silica to promote joint mobility, provides antioxidant protection, enhances skin's moisture retention, and supports collagen production. The ingredient blend makes our supplement 30 times more effective than conventional collagen. You only need two veggie capsules daily to reap all the potential benefits of the exclusive formula. Ask your healthcare provider if the Body Kitchen Collagen Enrich Skin + Joints supplement is right for you, and order a bottle online today.
Bulletproofing Your Immune Health with Elderberries
Whether you're concerned about cold and flu season or general immune health, you can take steps to bolster your immunity against germs. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and getting enough sleep are good starting points for promoting immune system health and the right elderberry supplement can support your efforts by acting as an immune booster. Read on to find out how. What Are Elderberries? Elderberries are purple berries derived from the Sambucus nigra plant, dating back as far as 400 BC. The juicy berries are often used to produce pies, tarts, jellies, and wines and have been used as a folk remedy for various ailments in parts of North America, Europe, Asia, and North Africa for centuries. What Impact Do Elderberries Have on the Immune System? One of the traditional uses of elderberry is to ease cold and flu symptoms and to reduce the risk of infections. Elderberries are full of antioxidants and vitamins that may boost your immune system. Based on anecdotal evidence that berries may boost immunity, scientists have studied elderberries to determine the compounds that they contain. According to research, polyphenols called anthocyanins likely benefit elderberries for immune health. These compounds are known antioxidants that fight the effects of oxidizing free radicals found in sunlight and air pollutants. Antioxidants may boost immune system health by aiding in the fight against reactive free radicals. Their actions may lessen the burden on the immune system, making it more available and better able to defend the body from germs, such as viruses and bacteria. Evidence suggests that compounds in elderberries may directly inhibit viruses from multiplying, enabling you to recover more quickly when you get sick. In one study, air travelers who took elderberry twice daily before long flights experienced less severe and shorter periods of cold symptoms if they later fell ill. Another found that taking elderberry within 48 hours of the first cold and flu symptoms reduced the duration and severity of the illness. What Are the Other Benefits of Elderberry? In addition to potentially providing immune support, elderberry may provide other benefits, including: * Relief from inflammation: Multiple studies indicate that antioxidants are anti-inflammatory compounds that decrease inflammation. As a result, they may be beneficial for individuals who suffer from chronic inflammation due to medical conditions. * Cardiovascular support: Research shows that flavonoids, like the ones found in elderberries, may reduce blood pressure and low-density lipoprotein (LDL cholesterol) levels, as well as lower the risk of developing heart disease. * Mood and cognitive support: In one animal study, mice that were given elderberry extract performed better in swimming and tail suspension tests and had better mood markers than those that didn't receive the extract, opening the doors to the possibility that elderberries may provide emotional and cognitive health benefits. Do Elderberries Cause Side Effects? Only certain parts of the elderberry plant are edible, so experts typically recommend taking supplements rather than consuming whole fruit if you're new to elderberries. Side effects from elderberry supplements are uncommon but can include digestive issues such as nausea and vomiting. Some people may be allergic to elderberries and are unable to take supplements safely, and elderberry extract may interact with some medications such as diuretics and laxatives. As a result, it's recommended to speak with your healthcare provider before trying an elderberry supplement for immune support for the first time. How to Choose an Elderberry Supplement When shopping for an elderberry supplement, it's essential to understand that not all products are the same. As you compare your options, consider the following: * Dosage: How much elderberry extract do you get per serving, and is the amount a clinically effective dose? * Source: Does the product contain whole elderberries that your body can readily use or is it strictly derived/made in a laboratory? * Standardization: Is the product standardized to provide a certain amount of anthocyanins per serving? * Purity: Does the product contain genetically modified ingredients (GMOs)? * Dietary concerns: Do you need a product that will complement a specific eating plan such as a vegan diet? Body Kitchen Nordic-Elder Shield Supplement contains a clinically studied, optimized, and patented form of whole Sambucus nigra extract. One serving delivers 27 grams of fresh elderberries (more than eight times the amount found in the leading competitor). Plus, the standardized form has 600 percent more anthocyanins, so you get more beneficial immune booster compounds from the berries. Our supplement is free of GMOs and is gluten and vegan-friendly to suit your dietary needs.
Almond Butter Collagen Brownies
Who says brownies can’t make you beautiful? This version is packed with skin-enhancing nutrition, including our Youthful Beauty Advanced Collagen with resveratrol and hyaluronic acid.
How Collagen Powder Works
Like a catchy country hit that climbs the pop charts, collagen powder is an undeniable crossover hit, widely popular as both a health supplement that helps rebuild joints and muscles, and a skincare essential that supports younger-looking skin as well as healthy hair and nails. Something else remarkable about collagen powder is the wide audience it serves. From young 20-somethings taking charge of their skin health to the 50+ and fabulous who want to look good and feel it, collagen powder is one of the most versatile dietary supplements you can use to maintain your youthful spirit, inside and out. While the health benefits of collagen are well-known, how collagen powder works is not. So let’s break it down. Collagen protein basics Collagen is one of three structural proteins and the most abundant in your body, accounting for 30% of its total protein. It’s pivotal to forming skin, joints, muscles, tendons, bones and connective tissues. Your body produces collagen by breaking down the dietary protein you eat into amino acids that are then used to form new proteins, including more collagen. Collagen is uniquely high in three particular amino acids: glycine, protein and hydroxyproline. This is the cycle by which all proteins are made, regardless of whether you get your protein from a steak, scrambled eggs, mixed bean salad or bone broth. In fact, dietary sources of collagen are mostly limited to sipping bone broth or eating roasted bone marrow, both of which are scarcely consumed in the Western diet – and why collagen powder is so attractive. Collagen powder “feeds” the collagen in your body If bone broth or roasted marrow is not your thing, a high-quality collagen powder offers an easy, effective and convenient “shortcut” for increasing your collagen intake. Depending on the type and source, one scoop of collagen powder can deliver anywhere from 2.5 grams to about 20 grams of collagen. Collagen powder opens up the supply chain of raw materials you need to produce and repair collagen-dependent tissues in your body. It gives you a boost of those three amino acids that are essential to forming collagen. Some collagen powders combine collagen with protein for an all-in-one solution. Our Youthful Beauty Advanced is one of them, offering a protein-packed solution by combining 10 grams of collagen powder PLUS 10 grams of protein to feed every tissue in your body, from skin radiance to lean muscle mass. Not only is it convenient, it delivers a full 19 amino acids, including the three key collagen builders. Collagen powders look the same… but are they? When you open a tub of collagen powder, or any powder supplement for that matter, it probably doesn’t stand out in any memorable way. But there are substantial differences that you should know about. Source of protein Like whey, casein or egg protein powder, collagen powder is animal-based protein, because it contains super-high, concentrated levels. Plants simply don’t contain much collagen to aid human health. Common sources of collagen are bovine, porcine, avian and marine. It’s also common to blend sources and types of collagen. Youthful Beauty Advanced features our exclusive Peptide Fortified Collagen that combines grass-fed bovine collagen and fish collagen peptides to deliver the best of both. Additionally, this multi-source approach yields a product that delivers high-absorption collagen peptides with the amino acid punch of traditional protein. Quality It goes without saying that you want high quality for what you put on or in your body. When it comes to collagen powder, “high quality” means that it’s powerful enough to be absorbed. Because it won’t work if you can’t digest it. You’ve likely heard about collagen peptides or hydrolyzed collagen (BTW, there’s no difference). The molecules are perfectly diced-up fragments of whole collagen protein that maintain its tissue-building goodness and are easy to absorb. That’s why Youthful Beauty Advanced doubles down on these powerful peptides with two specially bonded amino acids that offer 30X greater concentration of key peptides. Quality also means that you get the purest, most concentrated form of collagen that’s not diluted with unnecessary fillers and additives. Targeted formulas Just as skincare moisturizers vary according to specific needs, there’s as much variety in collagen powders, which is why at Body Kitchen we offer a range of collagen products to serve your unique needs, preferences and lifestyle. Some collagen powders keep it simple with formulas that only include hydrolyzed collagen or peptides. Other formulas may include co-factors, such as vitamin C and minerals that your body uses to support natural collagen production. There are also comprehensive collagen powder formulas that include additional health boosters for targeted support for improving skin health, joint mobility, digestion, etc. That’s why we created Youthful Beauty Advanced. Part nutritional supplement, part serious skincare, this popular formula targets the signs of collagen breakdown including wrinkles and loss of elasticity your skin needs for a beautifully healthy glow. In addition to high-quality, high-absorption collagen, it also includes hyaluronic acid to help plump and hydrate skin, and two powerful fruit antioxidants – resveratrol and amino acids from black currant – to fight wrinkles and sun damage. Now that you know how collagen powder can help you maintain a healthy, youthful body inside and out, you’re ready to shop with confidence! Get an exclusive discount on Youthful Beauty Advanced Collagen Powder here or check out other expertly formulated collagen products at bodykitchen.com.
Elastin’s Role in Healthy Lung Function
Lungs are to breath what joints are to mobility. And without elastin, lungs would be unable carry out their duties effectively. Every time you breathe in and out, whether you’re exercising, sleeping or simply flowing through your day, elastin in lungs and related tissues is in full engagement. Strong yet stretchy, elastin fibers provide your lungs with the flexibility to expand and contract like a balloon. And as with other critical proteins in the body, demand for elastin protein is high, both to support normal and healthy lung function, and to help counter the day-to-day stress of aging and pollution. In fact, the loss of lung elasticity is so detrimental to your quality of life that there’s a connection between impaired elastic recoil of lungs and respiratory conditions such as emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.* Let’s explore elastin’s role in healthy lung function and what you can do to support your lung health as you age. What is Elastin? Elastin is a fibrous protein of the extracellular matrix (ECM) – a web of large molecules known to relay and monitor the functions of tissues and cells. It starts with tropoelastin, the precursor, or parent, to elastin formation. ECM cells release it in soluble units that fill the spaces of the web.* Once released, an enzyme called lysyl oxidase strings together the incoming units into polypeptide chains that form amino acids, the building blocks of elastin protein.* The assembly process continues as these fully formed stretchy proteins form coil-like elastin fibers that can stretch and recoil with ease. What Does Elastin Do? All elastic tissue in the body contains high levels of elastin protein, which is roughly 1,000 times more flexible than the rigid protein, collagen.* This defining feature is what enables lungs, as well as blood vessels, skin, the heart and bladder to retain their expand-and-contract functionality and tensile strength.* Function of Elastin in Lungs Lungs are fundamental to the respiratory system, the mechanism by which fresh air enters your body, circulates oxygen through the bloodstream, and carbon dioxide waste gets expelled. Every time you breathe in and out, from shallow chest breathing to calming diaphragmatic breathing, a network of elastic tissues in respiratory organs and muscles engage to make it possible. Elastin protein is fundamental to the architecture and function of lungs. There are three separate elastin fiber systems that develop independently in the lung, each carrying out a different function. And all three continue forming through adolescence into early adulthood when production of elastin protein naturally diminishes.* As you’ll read about next, this contributes to loss of lung elasticity. Lung Facts That’ll Take Your Breath Away* # breaths per minute: 12-15 breaths # breaths per day: 17,000 # breaths per year: 6 million The basic act of breathing occurs in a series of steps: Step 1: Inhalation With every respiration, your diaphragm muscle is the first to respond. Situated between your chest and abdomen, the mound-like diaphragm muscle tightens and shifts downward to create more space for your lungs to fill and maximize lung capacity. The contraction creates energy that gets stored in elastic tissue.* Step 2: Gas Exchange The air travels to tiny sacs called alveoli. The alveoli are at the end of bronchial tubes and in these bubbles are where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged. Oxygenated air is toted off to the bloodstream by miniature veins bordering the alveoli. And a special membrane that surrounds the alveoli also supports your health in part by blocking liquid in the capillaries from entering.** Step 3: Exhalation When you exhale, the energy stored in the elastic tissue upon inhalation is released when the lung recoils and carbon dioxide waste – a byproduct of respiration – is forced out.* Importance of Lung Capacity Healthy “young” lungs with well-functioning alveoli sacs have the ability to maximize the volume of air they can take in with ease. When you take a deep breath in and can no longer inhale further, you have reached your total lung capacity – roughly 6 liters, or a little more than 1 ½ gallons, which varies according to age and gender. Maintaining proper lung capacity is crucial to lung health, because it speaks to the organs’ ability to hold an optimal amount of air in support of oxygen circulation, detoxification and other vital processes. Lungs peak in maturity between the ages of 20 to 25, then gradually lose functionality past the approximate age of 35.* Every cell, tissue and system in the body undergoes changes as a result of aging, and the respiratory system is no exception to the rule. In fact, the high concentration of elastin protein in the lungs, diaphragm muscle and other elastic tissue naturally assures that over time the elastic recoil of lungs and supportive tissues and ligaments will degrade. In addition to diminished functionality that comes with natural aging, loss of lung elasticity is characteristic of excessive pollution, harmful fumes and unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as smoking and vaping. How to Improve Lung Capacity If you mitigate the effects of aging and environmental pollution in favor of maintaining lung health, healthy activity levels and high quality of life, there are steps you can take every day that can make a significant impact: Avoid smoking Cigarette smoking, especially tobacco, is the leading risk factor for lung cancer, and can also lead to other lung diseases, such as emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to the CDC. The damage to airways and alveoli can be extensive, contributing to inflammation that makes breathing difficult.* Typically, smokers’ lungs are compared to non-smokers’ lungs as references for the differences between healthy and unhealthy lungs:* Healthy Lungs Have… Normal diaphragm muscle function Normal lung size A pink color No inflammation Whereas, Unhealthy Lungs Have… Compromised diaphragm muscle function Overextended lung size A gray/black tint Inflammation To attest to the lungs’ remarkable ability to heal, studies show that within 2 weeks to 3 months of quitting smoking, healthy lung function increases and circulation improves.* Exercise Physical activity is of great importance to lung capacity, because it places beneficial stress on your lungs, as well as your heart, to increase the supply of oxygen your body needs. This training makes lungs stronger and promotes healthy lung function, such as efficiently releasing oxygen into the bloodstream and recovering from damage caused by toxins and pathogens. Diaphragmatic Breathing Practice controlled breathing in the form of diaphragmatic breathing, also called abdominal breathing or belly breathing. The purpose of diaphragmatic breathing is to improve relaxation and decrease the demand for oxygen by slowing the breath, which in turn helps reduce blood pressure. It engages and strengthens the diaphragm muscle, which improves your ability to fully empty your lungs. Diaphragmatic breathing is widely used in rehabilitation in individuals struggling with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).* Connection Between Elastin and Emphysema Emphysema and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) The loss of lung tissue elasticity is characteristic of a number of adversarial and potentially long-lasting conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease encompasses a set of respiratory conditions that advance with time, and includes both chronic emphysema and bronchitis.* Notably, emphysema results from inflamed alveoli, whereas bronchitis results from inflamed bronchi, both of which have been shown to follow habitual smoking as toxins wreak havoc on elastic tissue.* The connection between elastin and emphysema is so strong that there’s a connective tissue disorder called elastolysis or Cutis laxa, which translates to ‘lax skin’. While rare, individuals with this skin condition can develop emphysema.* If the body’s ability to produce elastin protein is impaired, other organs and elastic tissues may be at risk of losing elasticity.* The Loss of Elastic Recoil of Lungs in the Development of Emphysema Like elastolysis, emphysema is tied specifically to a loss of elastic recoil of lungs.** And, because elasticity is a factor of so many organs and connective tissues in the body, this attests to the importance of maintaining strong and supple elastin fibers throughout the respiratory system. In the U.S., emphysema affects over 3 million people.* A preventable respiratory condition, emphysema is characterized by poor elastic recoil, leading to airflow obstruction, diaphragm muscle dysfunction and other impairments that affect normal breathing. Common signs and symptoms include chest tension, shortness of breath, frequent coughing with mucus and wheezing, especially during exercise or daily activities.* Elastin Supplements for Lung Health Making daily improvements to your health, such as eating more fruits and vegetables, or being active every day, are typically associated with specific health benefits related to skin or heart health. But lung health is typically taken for granted. The good news is that many daily habits and routines that promote these facets of health can also profoundly benefit healthy lung function, and that includes elastin supplements. As you now know, elastin protein is essential for maintaining the tensile strength and resiliency of stretchy elastic fibers found in the lungs, heart, blood vessels and skin. And elastin supplements offer an excellent boost for helping to keep your natural elastin factories operating optimally than through diet alone. When you take elastin supplements for lung health, you support elastin synthesis at every step of the process, starting with nourishing cells to release the elastin protein precursor, tropoelastin. These links are then used to create polypeptide chains that form amino acids, the building blocks of what ultimately becomes the elastin protein that makes up elastic fibers you want to maintain. Benefits of elastin supplements for lung health While elastin supplements are relatively new to consumers, the science and technological advancements behind the best quality elastin ingredients are not. In fact, many of the same processes used to hydrolyze, or break-down large elastin protein molecules into digestible, easy to absorb polypeptides are similar to its sister protein, collagen. Available in capsule and drink powder forms, these potent elastin peptides can help: Support elasticity of the lungs Support healthy lung function Fortify elastin protein Protect elastic fibers from breakdown Neutralize free radicals that can cause inflammation Sources of Elastin Supplements Marine-derived elastin protein is the main source of elastin supplements. Fish are rich in elastin, which is processed and hydrolyzed to yield concentrated, biologically active peptides that can be absorbed and utilized to activate natural elastin production. Elastin peptides have been recognized as a promising ingredient for benefiting respiratory health, blood vessels and skin.** So, a high-quality elastin supplement made with marine elastin peptides can not only support lung health, but also skin elasticity and vascular health. And, clinical studies on fish elastin polypeptides show their ability to activate fibroblasts (your elastin factories) to promote elastin protein production.* This allows you to regenerate and replenish elastin protein that’s lost due to cellular wear and tear, aging and environmental factors. Elastin Supplements for Lung Health Dosage Recommendations Clinical studies on marine elastin ingredients range from low-dose usage of 10-30 mg daily to 1,000 mg daily. Elastin supplements are very well tolerated at daily doses of up to 1,000 mg, an amount that supplies abundant levels of the components of tropoelastin, polypeptide chains and amino acids needed to help strengthen elastin fibers. So, the next time you steadily breathe in and out during your morning run, force out a lion’s breath in yoga class, or de-stress with meditative diaphragmatic breathing, remember to show gratitude for your lung health. Are you curious about using elastin supplements for lung health but don’t know where to start? Go to BodyKitchen.com for science-backed and clinician-approved information about what is elastin protein and how it supports your best health, from skin elasticity to healthy lung function. As the industry leader in elastin supplements, Body Kitchen has developed top-quality elastin supplements that support your body’s production of elastin protein to help you fight aging, inside and out, with clinically studied elastin polypeptides you won’t find anywhere else.
Is Vitamin K2 Really Necessary?
You've likely heard that calcium is essential for bone health, but it's not the only nutrient that contributes to strong, healthy bones and helps fight bone loss. Vitamin K also has a role to play. Read on to learn what vitamin K is and how it could make a difference if you take calcium supplements. What Is Vitamin K2? Vitamin K is one of the fat-soluble vitamins that your body needs to function correctly but can't produce enough on its own. There are two main categories of this vitamin: vitamin K1 and vitamin K2. Vitamin K1 is necessary for normal blood clotting, while vitamin K2 helps distribute calcium throughout the body. Found in green vegetables, some fruits, meat, eggs, cheese, and soybeans, vitamin K1 is relatively easy to get via foods, with most people getting enough vitamin K1 from their food intake. Vitamin K2 is a different story. Bacteria in the colon produce small amounts of this vitamin, and it's found in fermented foods. You're more likely not to get enough vitamin K2 through diet alone, especially if you have a digestive disorder like Celiac disease or ulcerative colitis. What Are the Benefits of Vitamin K2? The most significant benefit of vitamin K2 is that it helps direct calcium absorbed from supplements and food to where it needs to go. One of its jobs is to switch on osteocalcin, a protein that deposits calcium into bones. Vitamin K2 helps the body maintain strong bones by assisting with this process. For older adults at risk for bone loss, vitamin K2 is critical due to its bone health benefits. In your skeleton, calcium is vital, but in other areas of the body, calcium can cause problems. Specifically, calcium deposits in the arteries in your cardiovascular system can pose risks to your health. Called arterial calcification, a build-up of calcium in the arteries changes the makeup of the walls of the blood vessels. The deposits cause the walls to stiffen and lose flexibility. If this continues over time, you can develop atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries. Hardening of the arteries can make it more difficult for blood to circulate through the body properly. As a result, it can cause blood pressure to rise. In addition, atherosclerosis can make it more likely for cholesterol to accumulate in the arteries, leading to blockages. Due to the effects of the condition, people with atherosclerosis are more at risk for serious health problems like cardiovascular disease, heart attack, or stroke. Vitamin K2 may provide some protection against atherosclerosis. When there's excess calcium in the body, the vitamin turns on the matrix GLA protein, which binds to calcium before it can become deposited in the arteries. Simply put, vitamin K2 helps more calcium end up in your bones and less calcium find its way into your arteries. Does Vitamin K Cause Side Effects? Based on clinical studies, vitamin K supplements are safe for most people. However, supplements can interact with certain medications. The most severe drug interaction occurs in people taking blood thinners like warfarin. Increasing or decreasing vitamin K intake could cause bleeding or blood clots. In addition, some antibiotics and other medications may interact with vitamin K. As a result, it's a good idea to talk to your medical provider before you begin taking a vitamin K2 supplement to support bone and heart health. Should I Take Vitamin K2 If I'm Taking Vitamin D3? Taking calcium supplements only does a small amount of good if your body can't correctly put the mineral to use. The human body needs vitamin D for calcium absorption, so medical providers often recommend that people take one form of the vitamin called vitamin D3 with their calcium supplements. Vitamin K2 can complete a supplementation plan by helping ensure that calcium gets distributed properly once absorbed to promote bone and heart health. Body Kitchen Vitamin D + K2 makes it simple to reap the benefits of both vitamin D3 and K2. Our supplement contains menaquinone 7, the form of vitamin K2 that has been shown to remain active in the body for longer. Unlike some other vitamin D3 and K2 supplements on the market, our capsules are vegan and contain no GMOs, and a daily serving is just one capsule to make supplementation even easier.
