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Embrace Nostalgia For Your Healthiest Summer Ever
Summertime and the livinâ is easy. No matter how many years removed we are from our last âschoolâs out for summerâ barefoot adventure, thereâs still something about the season that brings out the giddy, energetic kid in all of us. From special dishes and activities to places and clothing (hello flip-flops!) that we reserve only for this time of year, we love these symbols of summer for taking us back to simpler times building sandcastles at the beach and to the people with whom we shared fun memories. 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 donât 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 while boosting your health: Get in the water Summer isnât 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 paddleboards 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 summerâs 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 sunâs intense UV rays. Overexposure can cause free radicals that break-down skinâs collagen structure, leading to premature sagging, wrinkling and dry, leathery texture. To maintain firmness and elasticity, add Total Beauty to your summer skincare routine. It supports the collagen structure with 3 proteins found in skin while fighting free radicals. Enjoy cool foods This time of year, itâs 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, quinoa salad, sliced veggies and fresh fruit. For dessert, donât miss our brand new high-protein chocolate chip cookie recipe made with 20 grams of Original Body Boost Collagen. Itâs mom-tested and kid-approved, so these delicious, hearty cookies are great for camp lunchboxes and beach snacks. Stock-up on ice pops Thereâs 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 older self no longer has the same tolerance for dairy, youâre 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 doesnât mean youâll 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 itâs easy to pull together teams for a friendly game of anything â volleyball, kickball, softball â 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.  Air quality can be poor during high heat months though. To protect your lungs and respiratory health against pollution, toxins and other environmental factors, take Mega NAC + Quercetin. This powerful natural detox helps flush-out impurities and supports production of glutathione, the bodyâs #1 antioxidant. 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!Â
How To Improve Your Gut Health With Collagen Supplements
Science is continuously revealing new ways that your gut influences your overall health. Research has found that immune system function relies heavily on your gut microbiome, and those gut health problems can lead to many problems. In addition, scientific inquiry indicates that collagen peptides may potentially improve gut health. Read on to learn more about the benefits of collagen for the gut. What Is Gut Health, Anyway? Gut health is the term for the condition of your stomach. The organ does more than just digest food. Your stomach is actually an ecosystem home to more than 100,000 trillion microorganisms. Many of them are healthy bacteria called probiotics, but others are harmful. In a person with good gut health, the beneficial and detrimental bacteria are well balanced. The term gut health also refers to the condition of the stomach lining. When the lining is fully intact, the stomach is sealed off from the rest of the body. However, if bacteria damage the lining, you could develop leaky gut syndrome. This condition occurs when the body doesn't digest food properly, leading to symptoms like bloating and widespread inflammation. Why Is Collagen Good for Gut Health? Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. You must often see it discussed when skin health arises because the protein provides support for the tissue. When levels of collagen drop, skin loses its elasticity and becomes more prone to sagging, fine lines, and wrinkles. In addition to its role in skin health, collagen is also an essential component of other connective tissues in the body, including the stomach lining. As you age, collagen production naturally slows. UV energy and pollutants can also destroy existing collagen fibers. Plummeting collagen levels can make it difficult for your body to maintain your stomach lining properly. As a result, people sometimes take collagen supplements. These supplements supply collagen peptides that your body can break down into amino acids for digestive health and use in other parts of the body. Benefits of Collagen for Gut Health Although research into the benefits of collagen is still ongoing, early findings suggest that it may aid in the following: Gut Lining Repair Collagen contains a number of amino acids, including glycine and proline. Both are needed by the immune system to repair damaged tissues throughout the body. A collagen supplement may give your body more glycine and proline to assist with gut lining repair. One study also showed that collagen helped repair stomach ulcers caused by excessive acid production in the stomachs of mice. Relief From Leaky Gut Symptoms Collagen may diminish leaky gut symptoms in more than one way. By supporting gut lining repair, the protein may address the condition's underlying cause. In addition, it supports the production of glutamine, an antioxidant that your body manufactures. Glutamine's job is to defend the body from free radicals that cause oxidative stress. Antioxidants have been shown to ease widespread inflammation, another symptom of a leaky gut. Improvements in Digestion Research shows that collagen may improve digestion and absorption of nutrients. Collagen is highly attracted to both water and stomach acid found in the gut. Its digestive system may make it easier for food to pass through to be fully digested. Improved digestion may alleviate symptoms like nausea, indigestion, and diarrhea. Types of Collagen If you're considering a collagen supplement for gut health, it's important to understand that there are three types of collagen: Collagen Type 1 is found in the lining of the digestive system as well as bones, skin, hair, and nails Collagen Type 2 found in cartilage Collagen Type 3 found in skin, muscles, and blood vessels Collagen supplements can contain collagen from one of two sources: Marine collagen is derived from shellfish and other sea life rich in type I and II collagen. Grass-fed bovine collagen is derived from cows and is rich in type I and III collagen. Which Collagen Is for Gut Health? For gut health, the best collagen supplement contains type I collagen. Both marine and grass-fed bovine collagen usually feature it. A product that provides collagen from both sources, like Body Kitchen Youthful Beauty Advanced Capsules and Body Kitchen Original Body Boost Collagen Capsules, may be more beneficial. Be sure to check the number of actual dipeptides supplements provide per serving. Products with higher levels give you more of the vital building blocks of collagen. How Much Collagen Per Day for Gut Health? Scientific research has yet to develop an exact dosage of collagen for supporting gut health. The best approach is to choose a high-quality supplement and follow the directions for use provided by the manufacturer. Also, consult your medical provider before taking any new supplement.
IMPROVING MEMORY & CONCENTRATION WITH POLYPHENOLS
It doesn't matter how dedicated you are to something or how committed you are to completing a task - if your mind isn't on the matter at hand, you can't achieve it. Many people find that cognitive function is a major limiting factor in their lives. They may find it hard to recall information, remember faces, or focus on tasks for long periods. If these issues sound familiar, getting antioxidant support from polyphenols may help you overcome the mental barriers to success. WHAT ARE FREE RADICALS AND WHY DO THEY MATTER? The reason why polyphenols benefit the mind is because of how they interact with free radicals. All-day long, you are bombarded by these reactive particles found in pollution and ultraviolet (UV) energy, which can lead to oxidative damage of cells in your brain and body. To defend against the threat of free radicals, your body produces the antioxidant glutathione. When it comes in contact with free radicals, glutathione breaks them down into harmless components. In an ideal world, your body's natural master antioxidant alone might be enough to keep oxidation in check. Unfortunately, pollution levels and damage to the ozone layer mean that our bodies need extra protection. This is where your diet comes into play. Antioxidants from your foods can bolster your defenses against free radical damage. WHAT ARE POLYPHENOLS? Polyphenols are more than 8,000 types of micronutrients found in plants. These natural compounds give fruits and vegetables their colors and flavors, and when you eat foods that contain them, your body can put those polyphenols to use. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF POLYPHENOLS FOR THE BRAIN? Polyphenols are powerful antioxidants that fight oxidative damage. Studies show they may provide many benefits for the brain, including: Reducing inflammation of the brain tissue, lining, and nerves to improve the transmission of signals Inhibiting the formation of plaque associated with memory loss from dementia and Alzheimer's Lowering the likelihood of cellular damage due to free radical activity Enhancing the growth and development of brain cells In simple terms, antioxidants may: Enhance concentration Improve memory as you age Increase your ability to focus Support your ability to learn new things Lead to improvements in recall Antioxidants also offer benefits beyond the brain. They have been shown to reduce the risk of some forms of cancers, fight widespread inflammation and support heart health. FOODS THAT IMPROVE MEMORY & CONCENTRATION Eating foods that are rich in polyphenols is one way to support brain health. Some antioxidant powerhouses to add to your diet include: Almonds Apples Artichokes Asparagus Bail Black beans Blackberries Blueberries Broccoli Carrots Cauliflower Cherries Chestnuts Chocolate, Dark unprocessed Cinnamon Cloves Cranberries Cumin Flax seeds Ginger Grapefruits Grapes Grapeseed oil Hazelnuts Kiwis Lemons Lentils Oats Olive oil Onions Oranges Oregano Parsley Peaches Pecans Plums Raspberries Rosemary Sage Soy milk Soy yogurt Spinach Strawberries Tea Tempeh Thyme Tofu Vinegar Walnuts White beans Wine Each of the foods on this list contains various polyphenols. To provide the best dietary support for cognitive function, strive to eat multiple foods from this list every day. COGNITION AND MEMORY BOOSTING SUPPLEMENTS WITH POLYPHENOLS Although there are many delicious ways to add polyphenols to your diet, you may still struggle to consume enough healthy foods to get adequate antioxidant support. It is not always possible to cook meals at home with today's hectic lifestyles, and even taking along healthy lunches and snacks to work may prove difficult. If you know your diet falls short from a nutritional standpoint, dietary supplements may help to bridge the gap. Choosing one rich in polyphenols can give you the antioxidant support you need. Some cognition and memory-boosting supplements to consider include: Blueberry extract Cocoa bean extract Grape seed extract Just as it's essential to consume a variety of polyphenols through the foods you eat, smart supplementation involves getting antioxidant support from more than one source. You could take multiple supplements, but that can quickly become complicated and expensive. EXEED Mind from Body Kitchen offers a simpler solution. This supplement contains Memophenol, a blend of whole grapes and whole blueberries. It also features cocoa bean extract and other ingredients shown to increase mental acuity. In addition, the supplement treats you to the benefits of Lutemax 20/20 and zeaxanthin, two carotenoid antioxidants. Studies have shown that these plant-based nutrients help to protect the eyes from free radicals and blue light damage. If you want to enhance concentration and memory through supplements, talk to your doctor first. Although dietary supplements are safe for most people, they may cause side effects or interact with medications. The instructions for taking Focus Daily Clarity appear right on the bottle. You should follow the directions for use for best results unless your medical provider advises you differently
ABOUT THE ADAPTOGENIC AYURVEDIC HERB ASHWAGANDHA
Health and wellbeing go hand in hand. While health refers to the state of the body, wellbeing relates to the mind, describing emotional balance and optimal cognitive function. Increasingly, people are using adaptogenic herbs to support wellbeing and achieve their mental health goals. Among the adaptogenic herbs, ashwagandha stands out for its long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine. There is a wealth of scientific evidence that attests to its benefits. Read on to learn more about ashwagandha. WHAT IS ASHWAGANDHA? Ashwagandha is an herb sometimes referred to by its scientific name Withania somnifera, or by its nicknames winter cherry and Indian ginseng. It is a shrub that grows in India and Southeast Asia, easily identifiable by its yellow flowers. For centuries, practitioners of Ayurveda have used its roots and leaves to address symptoms of many conditions. The name ashwagandha comes from the Sanskrit word for "smell of the horse" and relates to the herb's powerful aroma and the belief that it enhances physical strength by acting as an adaptogen. WHAT IS AYURVEDIC MEDICINE? Ayurveda or Ayurvedic medicine is a natural healing tradition that dates back more than 3,000 years. It emerged in India, and its name means knowledge of life. Ayurvedic practitioners believe that problems with the body's condition or Prakriti occur when the forces that form it, known as doshas, become imbalanced. In India, Ayurveda is a trusted medical practice with practitioners receiving training from institutions approved by the government. Treatments in Ayurvedic medicine do not typically include traditional western interventions like medication. Instead, practitioners recommend modifications to diet, massage, yoga, meditation, and Ayurvedic herbs like ashwagandha. WHAT ARE ADAPTOGENS? Many believe that Ashwagandha belongs to a class of herbs known as adaptogenic herbs or adaptogens. An adaptogen is a type of herb thought to defend the body from the effects of stress. Still, generally, the specific method of action of various adaptogens is said to counteract some of the physical changes that occur when the body is under prolonged periods of stress. People often take adaptogens to enhance physical performance. This is because adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha may help increase strength and boost endurance by minimizing the effects that physical exertion has on the body. There is also some evidence to suggest that adaptogens may enhance the results achieved from workouts. One study found that men who took 600 mg of the herb per day saw more significant muscle mass gains from a strength-training regimen after eight weeks than those who didn't. ADAPTOGENS' BENEFITS FOR STRESS AND ANXIETY Adaptogens aren't just for athletes and fitness buffs. Research indicates that adaptogenic herbs may reduce symptoms of mental stress and anxiety. In the case of ashwagandha, scientists speculate that the herb may lower levels of a chemical called cortisol, which becomes elevated in people suffering from chronic stress. In an 8-week clinical trial, people taking 250 to 600 mg of ashwagandha daily had significantly lower cortisol levels in blood samples. Another small study revealed that individuals taking 240 mg of the herb every day had fewer anxiety symptoms than those treated with a placebo. ASHWAGANDHA PROMOTES MENTAL WELLBEING Although more research is needed, early findings indicate that ashwagandha may help ease the symptoms of a number of mental health disorders to promote well-being. They include: Schizophrenia Bipolar disorder Depression People with these disorders may benefit from taking an ashwagandha supplement as a part of an overall treatment plan that includes therapy and prescription medications. ADAPTOGENS AND NOOTROPICS Adaptogens have become one of the most popular types of nootropics. A nootropic is a supplement taken to alter the brain's activity positively. Sometimes, people call this practice "brain hacking." Some studies point out that ashwagandha is one adaptogenic herb that may work well as a nootropic by supporting executive function, shortening reaction time, boosting cognitive task performance and expanding attention span. In one study, 50 adults who took 600 mg of ashwagandha every day for eight weeks saw improvements in memory, attention span, and the speed at which they processed complex information sets. Some scientists also believe that adaptogens like ashwagandha may act as an antioxidant and protect the brain from damage due to free radicals that have been linked to Alzheimer's disease and dementia. MAY SUPPORT SLEEP Research also suggests that ashwagandha may help support sleep. This separates it from stimulants often used to enhance cognitive alertness function, which can interfere with sleep. One study revealed that seniors taking 600 mg of ashwagandha for 12 weeks could stay asleep better and feel more alert in the morning than those who didn't. A systematic review of clinical studies concluded that ashwagandha had a modest impact on sleep quality, particularly in people who struggled to sleep because of anxiety and stress.
Almond Butter Chocolate Chip Collagen Cookies
Can you bake with collagen powder? One unique property of collagen protein is that it easily incorporates into baked goods as a dry ingredient. It doesnât change the taste or texture of the recipe but adds protein. These cookies offer additional protein from the almond butter and eggs with minimal added sugar. More protein, fiber, and healthy fat combined with less sugar helps keep blood sugar stable, making it a nutritious choice for a sweet treat. Enjoy! Prep time: 10 minutes Bake time: 12-14 minutes Makes: 16 cookies Recipe Ingredients: 1 cup almond butter (creamy and well mixed) 1/3 cup coconut sugar 4 scoops Body Kitchen Original Body Boost Collagen ½ teaspoon baking soda 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ cup dark chocolate chips Recipe Directions: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, mix the almond butter, coconut sugar, collagen, baking soda, eggs, and vanilla until well combined. Stir in the chocolate chips. Note: the dough will be a little sticky. Drop the dough by the heaping tablespoon onto the parchment paper-lined cookie sheet and shape gently into a circle. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until the edges start to slightly brown. Let the cookies cool completely. Store leftovers in a covered container in the fridge. Nutrition facts (1 cookie): 160 calories, 7 grams protein, 12 grams fat, 9 grams carbohydrate, 2 grams fiber
NATURAL WAYS TO BOOST YOUR MOOD
A study performed in 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic found that just 14% of Americans said they were happy. Economic, social, and emotional factors can all contribute to unhappiness. While it may not be possible to avoid your stressors, practicing self-care can make you more emotionally resilient and set you up for better moods. Read on to learn how to improve mood naturally. GET MOVING When you're feeling down, you may not believe you have the energy to exercise. However, powering through a workout can lead to significant benefits. Exercise is one of the most effective natural ways to boost mood. Walking 5 to 10 minutes can release feel-good chemicals called endorphins that boost mood. In addition, exercise has also been shown to combat stress and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. ADOPT AN AFFIRMATION PRACTICE Make this a habit: before your roll out of bed in the morning, grab your phone and browse websites that feature motivational quotes. Find one that resonates with you and will suit the events of your day. For example, if you have a difficult task to complete at work, find one about perseverance or overcoming obstacles. If you know you're going to be seeing someone who stresses you out, pick a quote about patience or calmness. Once you have selected a quote, take a screenshot for easy reference. Make it your affirmation for the day. Return to the quote whenever you feel stressed, overwhelmed, or in a slump. Read it a few times and reflect on its meaning for a quick pick-me-up. EAT WELL A well-balanced diet can help ensure that neurotransmitters in your brain are appropriately balanced and that the rest of your body is nourished and able to function at its best. Foods rich in folate like blueberries, dark chocolate, and leafy greens may support a better mood. MEDITATE Meditation allows you to turn inward and forget about your surroundings. Studies also show that it can increase alpha waves. Alpha brain waves are one of the five types of waves that your brain produces. They are associated with being awake and alert but still in a relaxed state. When you first wake up in the morning and have yet to complete any task, alpha brain waves are what dominates your thinking patterns. Meditation may make it possible for you to return to that fresh, relaxed state at any time of day. FIND REASONS TO BE GRATEFUL Giving thanks reminds you of the positive things in your life, so look for reasons to be grateful all day. You can mentally acknowledge random acts of kindness, relish beautiful weather and celebrate your blessings and successes. Keeping a gratitude journal allows you to go back and reflect on potential sources of happiness on days when you're finding it hard to be thankful. SET A SCREEN-FREE TIME Social media may seem like a good way to stay connected, but increasingly, scientists are discovering that it can have negative consequences on mental health. You don't need to give up Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and other sites permanently, but limiting your time on them can go a long way toward improving your mood. Establish a no-screen time where you put your phone out of sight. Turn off sound notifications and lose yourself in an activity that you enjoy. REAP THE BENEFITS OF ADAPTOGENIC SUPPORT Mood-boosting supplements can complement the benefits of other get-happy techniques, increasing your ability to balance your mood. Adaptogens are especially powerful for balancing mood. These natural herbs are shown to lessen the effects of stress on both the mind and body. Evidence suggests that adaptogenic herbs may support recovery after exercise and enhance physical and mental endurance. BEST ADAPTOGENS FOR STRESS AND ANXIETY If you're looking for natural ways to boost energy and mood, consider adaptogens that research shows offer benefits for anxiety relief and stress reduction. Ashwagandha is one of the best options. For centuries, practitioners of Ayurveda have used extracts from the root of this plant to address symptoms of stress and anxiety. Also known as Indian ginseng, the herb has been shown to reduce the amount of the stress hormone cortisol produced by the adrenal glands and hasten energy production in the mitochondria, the powerhouses contained in the body's cells. Ashwagandha is generally safe for most people, but it does pose a risk for allergic reactions, side effects, and drug interactions. As a result, you should talk to your doctor before trying it for adaptogen benefits. Supplements that combine ashwagandha with other ingredients shown to support a balanced mood may improve outcomes. Body Kitchen Stress Release also contains magnesium, l-theanine, and GABA, all of which have been shown to help relax or combat stress.
Tips For Healthy Aging
Thanks to advancements in medicine, life expectancies have risen over the last few decades, with the average American now living to 77 years of age. No matter how old you are, leading a healthy lifestyle can prevent premature death and help you remain active and independent as you age. Follow these tips for healthy aging to support health and well-being as you grow older. Staying Active As We Age As we age, our energy levels often decrease, making it challenging to find the motivation to exercise. However, pushing through the fatigue and staying active can lead to enormous health benefits by: Assisting with weight management Improving mood Promoting strong bones and muscles Enhancing sleep Reducing risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that seniors get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every week and perform muscle-strengthening exercises at least twice weekly. Moderate intensity exercise doesn't have to mean hitting the gym. Seniors can take brisk walks, play a sport, swim, or even dance to stay active. Fitness classes can make exercise more fun. Many gyms, community centers, and senior centers offer them year-round or as special events for the annual observance of National Senior Health and Fitness Day in October. Keeping Up with Regular Medical Appointments Medical problems become more likely to occur as we age, and the key to managing them is often getting treatment early. If you develop a serious condition like heart disease and type 2 diabetes, ongoing medical care can significantly reduce your risk of health complications. As a result, seniors should attend all follow-up and check-in appointments that their doctors recommend. Healthy seniors should also visit their doctors for check-ups at least once every two years. Eating a Well-Balanced Diet Some seniors experience a loss of appetite or are hesitant to cook healthy meals because of the time involved or because they live on their own. Although this is understandable, turning to frozen dinners packed with sodium and consuming fast processed foods can undermine efforts to stay healthy. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has devised the My Plate approach to nutrition to make eating healthy easier at any age. To follow it: Fill half of your dinner plate with fruits and vegetables. Put whole grains in one fourth and then keep lean protein in the other fourth. Use healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats sparingly and add one low-fat dairy product to each meal if you wish. Seniors who struggle to eat well can talk to their doctors about supplements and meal replacements. Maintaining Social Connections Isolation is a serious concern for seniors. Being alone can contribute to depression and anxiety and could put seniors in a dangerous position if they get sick or have an accident. Maintaining social connections by joining organizations and attending community activities and events can help support mental health and ensure that older adults have someone looking out for them. Seniors can also make connections through social media like Facebook. Getting Enough Rest Sleep is essential to health and well-being at any age. While sleeping, your body repairs cells, and your immune system fights off germs. People who don't get enough sleep may be at an increased risk for various medical conditions, including obesity and heart disease. People aged 61 to 64 need seven to nine hours of sleep every night, and after the age of 65, you should strive to sleep for seven to eight hours nightly. Importance of Joint Health & Mobility Joint mobility is a serious concern for seniors. Osteoarthritis is the number one cause of disability in seniors and affects 70 to 90 percent of people over 75. Individuals who suffer from reduced joint mobility are at an increased risk for serious fall accidents and may not be able to continue living in their own homes due to their difficulties safely navigating their homes. When you consider what arthritis can do to seniors, it's easy to understand why so many people wonder how to keep joints healthy as you age. Exercise and diet can both help, and often, medical professionals recommend joint health supplements for added support. Many products are marketed as joint health supplements, making it challenging to decide which to choose. Seniors should be on the lookout for ones that contain proven ingredients, such as elastin and collagen. Taking elastic and collagen for joints helps supply the body with building blocks for cartilage to counteract the wear and tear caused by osteoporosis. Although collagen and elastic supplements like Body Kitchen Pro-Elastin and Body Kitchen Collagen Enrich can't cure arthritis, they may ease its symptoms and support joint health when taken as directed.
Which Is Better? Liquid vs. Powdered Collagen
You may have heard that taking collagen peptides can support more youthful-looking skin and healthier joints. Although there is a wealth of research that suggests taking collagen has health and beauty benefits, choosing a supplement isn't always simple. When you begin to research your options, you'll find that there are multiple forms of collagen available. Liquid and powder collagen are two of the most popular options, which leads to the question "is liquid or powder collagen better?" Read on to explore the answer. Benefits of Collagen Peptides Collagen peptides are the building blocks of the structural protein collagen. It is the most abundant protein in your body and is a key component of joint cartilage and skin. As you age, collagen production slows down, contributing to lost skin elasticity and a breakdown of cartilage. Exposure to free radicals in ultraviolet energy and pollution can also damage collagen and make the problem worse. Collagen peptide supplements give your body key materials that can be used to increase your body's supply of collagen. People take collagen powder and liquid to diminish the appearance of fine lines, promote firmer skin and support healthy joints. Types of Collagen There are three main types of collagen found naturally in the human body: Collagen Type 1 present in bones, skin, hair, nails, tendons and the lining of the digestive system Collagen Type 2 present in cartilage Collagen Type 3 present in skin, muscle and blood vessels If you're most concerned about skin health, collagen type 1 and 3 are most important for you, while collagen 2 is the type required by people hoping to support joint health. Most collagen supplements contain collagen from one or two sources: Marine collagen from shellfish and other sea life; typically contains collagen types I and II Grass-fed bovine collagen from cows; typically contains collagen types 1 and III What Is Liquid Collagen? As the name suggests, liquid collagen is a form of collagen supplement that comes in liquid form. You can buy standalone liquid collagen to take like a liquid medication or to mix into smoothies and drinks. Pre-made beverages that contain collagen are also available. These are sometimes called "collagen waters." What Is Powdered Collagen? Powdered collagen is hydrolyzed collagen. This means that the collagen fibers have undergone a process that breaks it down into its peptide chains and stabilizes it. Powders are usually mixed with water, beverages, shakes or smoothies. Powdered Collagen vs. Liquid Collagen Whether powdered collagen or liquid collagen is better depends on your specific needs. To choose the right supplement for you, consider the following. Amount of Collagen Per Serving Both liquid and powder collagen can be easily absorbed by the digestive system. However, collagen powder delivers more collagen peptides per serving than liquid collagen. As a result, when comparing liquid vs. powder collagen absorption on a serving-to-serving basis, powders often come out on top because they provide more of the beneficial key ingredient to start with. Source of Collagen Most liquid collagen supplements are made from marine collagen and therefore are lacking in type 3 collagen, which is important for skin health. Powdered collagen may contain grass-fed bovine or marine collagen. The best products on the market feature both types of collagen, giving you the most complete profile to support healthy joints and skin. Added Ingredients Liquid collagen products are much more likely to contain artificial flavorings, additives and preservatives than collagen powders. This is especially true of ready-to-drink collagen waters and beverages because manufacturers need to add ingredients to give sips a pleasant taste. Although additives do not necessarily mean a liquid collagen product is unhealthy, people striving to cut processed foods out of their diet as much as possible may prefer collagen powder. Ease of Use Whether liquid or powder collagen is more convenient is a matter of personal opinion. Some people find liquid collagen to be easier to use on the go because they can simply open a bottle and sip. However, people who travel frequently may prefer collagen powder because it takes up less space in a travel bag and is less likely to cause spills. Do Collagen Powders Work? Scientific studies indicate that collagen powders generally do work to increase levels of collagen in the body. However, not all collagen powder supplements are the same. When choosing a product, be sure to compare the number of dipeptides per serving. The more concentrated a product is, the greater the collagen absorption is likely to be. Keep in mind that no supplement will deliver results overnight. Studies indicate that noticeable changes in skin texture and improvements in joint health may become apparent within 8 to 12 weeks of using a collagen powder.  References: https://bodykitchen.com/collections/shop/products/youthful-beauty-collagen-powder  https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/liquid-collagen-vs-powder https://www.indigocollagen.com/blogs/indigo-blog/liquid-collagen-vs-powder Â
Your Warm Weather Guide for Better Sleep
Have you noticed a change to your sleep patterns now that thereâs more daylight? With sunlight spilling in through your bedroom windows earlier, you may find yourself waking up before youâre fully ready. And with dusk falling later in the evening and more daylight to do more, thereâs a good chance your bedtime is getting delayed too.  Your circadian rhythmâthe bodyâs natural response to light and dark over a 24-hour cycleâinfluences physical, mental and behavior changes. This biological timekeeping is built into a cluster of cells found in the brain, as well as in the retinas of the eyes and liver, that together activate sleep-wake activities, such as digestion, temperature regulation and cellular repair. This is how your body is designed to function, that is, when undisturbed by modern stimuli, such as busy schedules, packed vacation itineraries, and perhaps the biggest threat of allâelectronic devices. When you combine something as natural as early sunrises and late sunsets with unnatural external influences, say, staying up âtil 11:00 scrolling through social media, you can count on losing desperately needed hours of sleep! Summer sleep vs. winter sleep Thereâs a reason why you feel energized and ready to take on more activities during warm weather months. Belgian researchers found that attention and concentration peaked around the longest day of the year (summer solstice), but dwindled during the shortest (winter solstice)âa difference of over 3 hours between the two events. When you take a closer look at how our biological cycles and daily routines change seasonally, itâs easy to see why despite feeling more cheerful during spring and summer, you may also experience sleep deprivation. Less melatonin production Healthy slumber relies on production of the sleep hormone, melatonin. The process of producing it starts with your retinas, which detect light and signal to your brain to keep your body and mind going. In theory, as sunlight wanes, your body should start to wind down in preparation for a good nightâs sleep⌠except that in spring and summer when sunlight is stretched to its max, this process gets pushed out. In June, the sun sets past 8:30 pm! Add artificial light, especially blue light from devices and LED screens right before bedtime, and you can bet you wonât be counting sheep for awhile. Too hot to sleep You probably know the unpleasant feeling of tossing and turning late at night in a hot, muggy bedroom, unable to get comfortable enough to fall asleep. Science reveals that too-warm temperatures are not conducive to creating a healthy sleep environment. Your core body temperature naturally drops by about 2-3 degrees at night to help you fall asleep easier, which is further supported as the temperature of the air drops. But when the air temperature and humidity donât drop, youâll struggle to fall asleep. The ideal sleeping temperature is about 65 degrees F, so turn down your air conditioner and wear light, breathable pajamas to get the rest you need. Too many summertime cocktails All the extra sun exposure and increase in skinâs natural synthesis of vitamin D will naturally put you in good spirits, leading to being more active and social⌠which invites good spirits of a different kind. According to the Journals of Studies on Alcohol, boozy behavior is highest in the summer. Summer weather may make you feel like youâre on vacation, but your body is clocked in and needs full nights of uninterrupted sleep to keep you healthy. Late at night when alcohol wears off, it has a wakening effect that can disrupt your ability to fall into a deep state of recuperative sleep, when the body repairs itself and gets rid of toxic cellular waste. Collectively, the effects of over-imbibing can lead to fitful sleep, a groggy morning (among other unpleasant side effects), skin dehydration and an increase in destructive free radical activity. To counter this destructive cellular activity, boost your intake of antioxidants from dark colored fruit. Cherries, citrus, apples, blueberries and blackberries are high in quercetin, a powerful plant pigment that combats free radicals. Body Kitchen Mega Quercetin supplies a whopping 1000 mg of plant-based quercetin, unlike synthetic ingredients found in many other quercetin formulas. Sleeping beauty The concept of âbeauty sleepâ is not conjecture. Every aspect of healthâfrom skin to heart to memoryâdepends on the cellular cleanout that occurs overnight to function optimally, which can only happen when youâre sleeping soundly. And when it comes to fighting skin aging wrinkles and sagging, a few hours of sleep per night wonât cut it. Formation of collagen and elastin is part of skinâs repair process and can only occur when you sleep, ideally for 7-9 hours. Collagen and elastin are your âanti-gravityâ proteins, with collagen helping to keep skin smooth and firm, and elastin working to minimize sagging and maintain elasticity. To give collagen and elastin formation a boost, add a scoop of collagen peptides to your smoothies and beverages. Peptides are literally the smallest forms of collagen, so theyâre easily digested, absorbed and used to synthesize new skin and connective tissue. Try Body Kitchen Youthful Beauty Collagenâeach serving has 20% more skin-firming collagen peptides, PLUS resveratrol and black currant antioxidants to fight unstable free radicals that can develop as a result of insufficient sleep. Natureâs sleep aid You might think that your sleep-wake cycle would automatically adjust to the change in seasons and temperatures, and it would, absent the onslaught of external stimuli. But our modern world and high-tech lifestyles operate on their own schedule. If youâre having trouble winding down and sleeping, itâs okay to nudge your body toward balance without going to extremes. Try magnesium, Mother Natureâs sleep aid. The same mineral that supports strong bones and blood pressure is also a known natural relaxant and mood balancer. Magnesium supports the parasympathetic system, which is involved in helping to relax muscles and calm an active mind. Thatâs why Epsom salt baths are so soothing. For faster benefits, try Body Kitchen Unwind. Our pure and natural magnesium is in powder form for quicker absorption. Add it to water or caffeine-free, herbal tea 30 minutes before bedtime to help you sail away into slumber. Youâll find it in this monthâs recipe, our soothing Unwind Nightcap. Â
