What is collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body, making up around 30% of total human protein content. It helps build strong fibres and connective tissue in the body and is commonly referred to as the ‘glue’ holding the body together as it ensures the integrity, elasticity and regeneration of our connective tissues.

Nutraviva Collagen Hydrolysate is a 100% pure protein source. When protein is digested by the body it is broken down into amino acids that are used by the body to produce energy and synthesise new proteins for body growth and repair. Within the body proteins are in a continual process of being degraded (natural aging processes, illness, disease) and resynthesised, which is why protein is such an important food source to include in a nutritious healthy diet.

 

What are amino acids?

Amino acids are the building blocks for protein synthesis in the body. There are over 700 known amino acids, in the human body there are 20 amino acids that are considered important for health and wellness. Nine of these amino acids are ‘essential’ to the human body and cannot be made by the human body thus must come from food. Five others are ‘conditionally essential’, meaning they under ideal healthy circumstances the body can make these amino acids however lifestyle, metabolism errors and food nutrition can all impact on availability.

Collagen hydrolysate is particularly rich in proline, glycine, hydroxyproline and hydroxylysine.

• Proline protects your blood vessels, supports cardiovascular health, and provides joint cushioning. It is important for proper functioning of joints and tendons a vital component of collagen.
• Glycine helps in the production of DNA, creatine formation, muscle growth, and energy regeneration. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Recent studies suggest that glycine also has a role in supporting the central nervous system.
• Hydroxyproline is necessary for the repair of damage to tissues and collagen stability within the body.
• Hydroxylysine promotes collagen formation and the uptake of nutrients in the body.

Collagen hydrolysate and gelatin also contains Alanine, Arginine, Aspartic Acid, Glutamic Acid, Histidine, Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Methionine, Phenylalanine, Theanine, Tyrosine and Valine, all with various roles in the maintaining health and wellness.

 

Why is vitamin C an important cofactor for collagen?

Collagen relies upon the presence of Vitamin C for stimulating collagen synthesis and gene expression, stabilising collagen in the body and assisting in antioxidant protection against UV-induced photodamage; therefore vitamin C is referred to as a collagen ‘co-factor’.

Vitamin C improves the negative impact of skin hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage and aging. Preclinical studies demonstrate that vitamin C has the potential to accelerate bone healing after a fracture, increase type I collagen synthesis, and reduce oxidative stress.

Poor wound healing, fragile skin and loss of connective tissue are indicators of a vitamin-C-deficiency within the body. Optimum vitamin C levels within the body support can be enhanced by a healthy, balanced diet incorporating vegetables and fruit high in vitamin C such as guava, capsicum, kiwifruit, citrus, broccoli, kale and tomato. Vitamin C supplements can also help boost levels if nutrients levels are low, or if injury and illness are present in the body.

 

Not all collagen products are equal

The benefits of collagen supplementation include:

• Healthy Ageing
• Beauty Nutrition and Skin Care
• Weight Loss and Management
• Sports Nutrition
• Joint and Bone Health

At Nutraviva we pride ourselves on our high-quality premium products and provide a range of certification options.

Nutraviva Collagen Hydrolysate is 100% all-natural grass fed and finished, pure, unblended hydrolysed collagen powder with no binders, fillers or additives. We have a range of certification options including kosher and halal certified collagen hydrolysate, as well as a HASTA batch tested product for athletes. Nutraviva Collagen Hydrolysate contains smaller peptides compared to those found in intact proteins allowing them to be absorbed by the body more rapidly maximising delivery to cells. 

Nutraviva Marine Collagen is 100% naturally organic, wild caught and sustainably sourced from North Atlantic cod skin. It has a low molecular weight, optimised to stimulate collagen production within the cells making it highly regarded for beauty nutrition. We use Nutraviva Marine Collagen as the basis for our Simply Beautiful range incorporating crucial co-factors into the formula to support skin, hair, and nail health.

 

 Disclaimer: As with any dietary choice, it's essential to strike a balance. A varied and balanced diet, coupled with a healthy lifestyle, is key to overall well-being. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with your Doctor or healthcare professional regarding your individual health needs before making any changes to your health routine or starting any new dietary supplements.