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Why I Love Collagen Peptides

February 22, 2018 by Hillary 5 Comments

Alternate Title: Former Vegetarian Obsessed with Beef Collagen

I’ve been meaning to chat about collagen peptides on the blog, and since I just ordered another tub of Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides (I used the last scoop in my coffee this morning), I figured I’d talk about why I have been supplementing my diet with collagen peptides, and why I love ’em!

First things first. What is collagen!? It’s definitely a buzzword in the wellness world these days, popping up everywhere — even in almond flour chocolate chip cookies (yes please)!

What is collagen?

“Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and helps give structure to our hair, skin, nails, bones, ligaments and tendons in our body. Thanks to collagen, we’re better able to move, bend and stretch. Collagen is also behind helping hair shine, skin glow and nails stay strong.  

As we age, and the more stress we put on our body, the greater the impact on collagen production. Getting collagen in a balanced diet can help our bodies regenerate what’s been lost or broken down.  

Collagen is a protein made up of amino-acids: glycine, proline, hydroxyproline, and arginine, all of which help our body’s connective tissue, skin, hair, nails, as well as gut health stay as healthy as possible. 

Collagen protein is different than whey and casein protein because of these high levels of amino acids. Muscular growth, joint health and an overall glowing appearance can be partially attributed to the amino acid blend in collagen that can’t be found anywhere else.” — Vital Proteins

What are collagen peptides?

“Peptides are gelatin proteins broken down into their constituent peptide chains through an enzymatic process. This allows our collagen peptides to not “gel” in cold liquids. Heating them will not alter their nutritional value. The peptides have the advantage of mixing well into both cold and hot liquids without them “gelling.” You may add our peptides to cold and hot beverages alike, such as a smoothie, juice, water, tea or coffee, as well as a variety of foods like pancakes or oatmeal to boost the protein content.” — Vital Proteins

Why do I personally use collagen peptides?

While I still eat a mostly plant-based/vegetarian diet (though I could care less about “labeling” myself a vegetarian), I am clearly not a full-fledged vegetarian currently like I have been at other points in my life. I’m basically adding beef to my coffee, people.

After struggling with digestive issues for most of my mid to late-twenties, I came to the conclusion that perhaps my preferred way of eating – sans meat – is not actually what my body prefers; after all, it knows best! In other words, maybe it would feel better using different fuel (i.e. less grains and starches and more protein and vegetables). While I am definitely no carnivore, I am consuming poultry here and there, fish (as always), bone broth, and collagen peptides.

I started using collagen peptides several months ago per the recommendation of my naturopath in support of healing my leaky gut. While healing my gut is still my number one focus, I supplement my diet with collagen not only to repair my intestinal lining, but for the skin benefits as well. As I approach thirty(!), skin care is more important to me than ever. Oh hey, fine lines, I see you!

“Collagen is super hydrating to the skin because it adds nourishment into the deep depths of our skin that are impossible to reach through topical skincare, healthy lifestyle, etc.! Upon ingestion, collagen is absorbed in our small intestine and then delivered to our skin through the bloodstream. Once we strengthen the collagen network in our skin from the inside out, it can better hold in water and hyaluronic acid (also key for glowy skin + keeping moisture in).” — The Balanced Blonde

So, for me, a healthy gut and healthy skin (which are entirely correlated in my opinion) are my main motives behind using collagen. I also love that it makes it super easy for me to get in an extra dose of high-quality, easy digestible protein. Each serving of Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides contains 18g of protein.

Why I Love Collagen Peptides #stayvital @vitalproteins

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How do I use collagen peptides?

I add 1 scoop of unflavored collagen peptides to my hot black coffee every morning. Beef in my coffee!? I swear, you can’t taste it. It doesn’t alter the flavor or texture whatsoever.

In the afternoons, I’ll often make an iced matcha or golden milk (turmeric) latte. These have been hitting the spot as I acclimate to 85 degree days in February – hi, Florida weather!

For the iced matcha, I’ve been using the Vital Proteins Matcha Collagen — a new product with only three ingredients: collagen peptides, matcha, and coconut water powder. I simply mix it with unsweetened almond milk, a splash of pure maple syrup, and then blend it with my immersion blender to make it frothy. And I do the same for a golden milk latte, though I substitute the matcha for this Gaia golden milk powder.

What results have I noticed?

I can not say that I’ve noticed a wildly significant improvement with my digestion. I still struggle with my SIBO symptoms. However, I have noticed a shift in the appearance of my skin. It feels more hydrated and supple (perhaps the Florida humidity has something to do with that!). My SIBO-related eczema has also been noticeably calmer, so perhaps it is having an effect on my GI tract after all. I have been consistent with supplementing for only about 6 weeks or so, so I am excited for future results with continued use.

Why do I love Vital Proteins brand?

I used another brand of peptides for a couple of months before trying Vital Proteins. I didn’t expect there to be such a difference from brand to brand, but I will say that I immediately noticed how well Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides dissolved into liquids, hot or cold. The peptides are also completely flavorless, which makes them very versatile when adding to beverages and recipes. And because the quality of food (and supplements) is of utmost importance to me, I love that Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides are sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine hides, which ensures a natural, high quality, and sustainable source of nutrients.

Of Possible Interest

  • What’s the deal with collagen? — The Balanced Blonde
  • What is Collagen & Should You Be Taking It? — Eating Bird Food

 Do you supplement with collagen? Have you noticed any changes?

Disclosure: I received complimentary products from Vital Proteins. As always, opinions are entirely my own.
This post contains affiliate links. Thank you for your support!

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Filed Under: Nutrition Tagged With: #stayvital, Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies, Collagen Peptides, Matcha Collagen, Vital Proteins

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“Anxiety is a symptom, not a diagnosis.” - Dr. “Anxiety is a symptom, not a diagnosis.” - Dr. George Papanicolaou

It’s no secret that I suffer from chronic anxiety and panic attacks. Or at least I don’t intend it to be. Because while there can be a lot of shame and embarrassment around both of these, I know I’m not alone in my experiences. While I’ve leaned toward the more anxious side most of life, my bothersome anxiety has steadily increased since my mid-twenties - some periods being worse than others. 

It’s not a complete surprise that my mental health has taken a dip during my first full gloomy Seattle winter — in the height of a pandemic. 

Here are some ways I have been nurturing my body & mind as I work with a team of practitioners to work on understanding the **root causes** of my panic, and to live with more ease. 

» no coffee (not even decaf)

» meditating regularly - I’m using @insighttimer 

» gentle movement

» weekly therapy sessions

» attempting cold showers (this is hard for me!): if you’re interested, you can research how this impacts the nervous system

» working with a naturopathic doctor to focus on gut + hormone health

» trying a new Rx - a decision that took years of consideration

» lastly, opening myself up to vulnerable conversations/sharing my story and my experiences in efforts to reduce any shame and connect with others 

I am not my anxiety. 

[image: a photo I snapped to send to my mom of my naturally red palm holding my Rx on the first day I took it]
This rare blue sky day in February is having me da This rare blue sky day in February is having me day dreaming about long, light-filled summer days... they’ll be here soon. 

#pikeplacemarket #seattlewashington
Leavenworth, WA • Where To Eat🍴 I was expect Leavenworth, WA • Where To Eat🍴

I was expecting all things beer, brats and pretzels in Leavenworth (not really my jam) 🍺🥨🧀, and while there’s plenty of it, I was delighted to find plenty of delicious eats for my “foodie” taste. 

We went to all of these 3 places more than once during our quick stay - highly recommend! 

☕️ @argonautespressobar: Located at one end of Front Street, this adorable coffee bar has delicious espresso drinks, breakfast items, and the best view! 

🥐 @tumwaterbakery: Incredible pastries, avocado toast on artisanal bread that’s a feast for your eyes... and I’m eager to go back and try their wood-fired pizza! 

🍜 @yodelinbroth: Literally some of the best food I’ve had (ever!), and that’s saying a lot. I had the Yodelin soup with housemade wild PNW halibut bone coconut curry broth, udon noodles, heaps of veggies and wild salmon - it was nourishing to my core as we ate it outside in 30 degree weather. I even bought some of the broth to recreate this meal at home, yum! 

#nutritionnuteats #leavenworthwa
winter wonderland getaway ✔️ We had snow much winter wonderland getaway ✔️

We had snow much fun exploring the picturesque Bavarian town of Leavenworth, WA for a much-needed mid-week getaway to the mountains. 🏔

We stayed in a cozy little cabin @logecamps right on the Wenatchee River (one day I’ll be back to stay at the stunning @phleavenworth), played in Enchantment Park, took a drive to Lake Wenatchee, and discovered some of the best food downtown (I’m saving my food recs for another post).

Nestled between the snow-capped Cascade Mountains with the river running through town, it’s quite magical in the middle of winter. ❄️ I’m already dreaming of heading back for some summer adventures!
I’m sure Koba is wondering why we ever lived in I’m sure Koba is wondering why we ever lived in Florida for two years.

#takemetothemountains #snowday
dog [noun] companion, loyal comforter, playmate, f dog [noun] companion, loyal comforter, playmate, forgiving, loving, energetic, protective, best friend.
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