Your Body Ages Rapidly in Your 40s and 60s: Here’s How to Slow It Down

Is there a certain time in your life to consider taking collagen daily? Collagen, a pivotal protein in our body, supports various aspects of our health, including skin vitality, joint functionality, and muscular strength. Let's explore when to consider collagen supplementation and its myriad of benefits. As a Naturopathic Doctor, I often engage with patients curious about what collagen supplementation entails, what the benefits are, and why it might be right for them. Ultimately the age you start is up to you, but knowing when collagen starts to decline in the body may help you choose when to start. The Onset of Collagen Decline Our body's collagen production typically begins to diminish in our mid-20s, accelerating around age 40, and significantly drops by our 60s. This natural reduction in collagen affects not only our physical appearance, such as decreased skin elasticity, but also the functional integrity of our joints and muscles. Understanding Collagen Production Decline Collagen’s reduction impacts the body's structural support, manifesting in changes in skin texture, joint discomfort, and a decrease in muscle mass. It's not just a cosmetic concern; it's a matter of maintaining bodily strength and mobility. Joint stiffness, reduced mobility, and an overall decrease in muscle strength, are common concerns as we age, and can impact our bodies ability to withstand injury. Research has shown that this decline is due to both intrinsic aging processes and environmental factors like UV exposure and pollution (Shuster et al., 2005). Delving into the Science of Collagen Supplements Research highlights the effectiveness of collagen supplements in addressing these age-related changes. For instance, a study published in 2019 demonstrated how collagen peptides improve skin hydration and elasticity (Bolke et al., 2019). This study highlighted that regular intake of collagen led to noticeable improvements in skin moisture and elasticity, suggesting its potential as a proactive measure against aging. Another study in 2021 highlighted collagen's role in promoting muscle mass and reducing joint pain in individuals across a wide range of ages (Khatri et al., 2021). These findings are significant as they illustrate that hydrolyzed collagen, which is more readily absorbed by the body, can significantly replenish depleted collagen levels, improving many aspects of health, from skin appearance to joint and muscle function. Naturopathic Recommendations on Collagen Intake In my practice, I recommend considering collagen supplementation around the age of 25 to 30. This proactive approach can support not only skin health but also joint functionality and muscle mass, contributing to overall well being. When advising patients, I consider their dietary patterns and overall health profile. Products like Enhanced Collagen Original by Organika is often my go-to recommendation due to ease of incorporation into daily routines and being an excellent source of protein. For pescatarians, Marine Collagen Powder by Organika is a suitable alternative. These supplements can easily be added to morning smoothies, oatmeal, coffee and even water. I recommend a holistic approach to health As always, a holistic health strategy is paramount, and collagen supplements should be part of a balanced lifestyle inclusive of a nutritious diet and regular exercise. Consultation with a healthcare professional before beginning any new supplement regimen is essential to ensure it aligns with individual health needs and goals. In conclusion, understanding the onset of collagen decline and its effects is crucial for maintaining overall health and wellbeing. With the right knowledge and approach, collagen supplementation can be an effective tool in managing the signs of aging and supporting the body's structural integrity. In health, Dr. Courtney Clayson-Russell

As we age, our skin wrinkles, thins out, and may lack that ‘youthful lift’. Our joints become stiff and wear and tear can occur with any activity. Although aging is inevitable, thanks to research we continue to find more ways to add ‘grace’ to the aging process. Nowadays, fillers and Botox are a pricey, and sometimes a risky route many individuals will take to sustain youthful looking skin. Creams, lotions and serums can be priced in the thousands, with promises to reverse aging. It can all add up and become not only incredibly expensive, but in some cases not as effective as promised. What if I were to tell you that beyond a balanced daily diet and lifestyle, certain supplements can have a HUGE impact on the way your skin ages and your joints feel? Collagen is an important component of our skin and other tissues, and it needs a few key ingredients to stay strong, plump and glorious. Hyaluronic acid is one of those key ingredients! Hyaluronic Acid Hyaluronic acid (HA), is a naturally occurring substance in your body. HA attracts and holds onto water molecules, and in turn, acts as a natural lubricant for the joints and an internal moisturiser for the skin.1 More than half of our natural HA is found in skin tissues,2 and the rest is abundant in our joints, blood vessels, eyes and more.1 As we age, our natural stores of HA decrease, and this is seen in features of our skin such as wrinkles, which become more noticeable due to the loss of moisture.1 Supplementing with Hyaluronic Acid Taking a HA supplement daily is a targeted way to help with the health of your skin while aging, as well as keeping our joints in tip top shape! HA, alongside collagen supplementation, is a dynamic duo that will promote growth and stability in your tissues. The collagen in your skin needs to be well hydrated to maintain good flexibility, which allows it to avoid being easily broken down. Supplementing with HA is a good daily practice as it degrades quickly in our body3, so replacing it is key. Shop Hyaluronic Acid Summing it up Adding HA alongside a collagen supplement is a great way to boost the overall health of your skin and joints. Eating a diet rich in nutrients, and low in processed foods/sugar, will only compliment this process further. Just like any other supplement regime, it is always a great idea to talk to your healthcare provider before making any major changes. Be happy, be healthy and age gracefully! Amy Wilson References Papakonstantinou E, Roth M, Karakiulakis G. Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging. Dermato-endocrinology. 2012 Jul 1;4(3):253-8. Reed RK, Lilja K, Laurent TC. Hyaluronan in the rat with special reference to the skin. Acta Physiologica Scandinavica. 1988 Nov;134(3):405-11. Fraser JR, Laurent TC, Engström‐Laurent A, Laurent UG. Elimination of hyaluronic acid from the blood stream in the human. Clinical and experimental pharmacology and physiology. 1984 Feb;11(1):17-25.

How often do we think about the health of our brain? Do we have the potential to think more clearly and improve our memory? What can we do to help prevent age related diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Dementia? There is so much we can do to keep our brain healthy and being ‘mindful’ now will help us out in our later stages of life. There are many avenues in which you can help support your overall cognition: Exercise your brain Yes, you can exercise your brain! When you do this, you challenge it to make new connections and strengthen old connections. There are some simple activities you can do to exercise your brain and keep it sharp and healthy. Reading, doing word puzzles and crosswords are great exercises for your brain. You can also try using your non dominant hand to write with or perform everyday tasks, such as moving your mouse on your computer. These are simple yet effective exercises for your thinker! If exercised consistently, it can have a profound effect on the health of your brain. Supplementation When it comes to the health of our brain, Lion's mane is great for cognitive support. Lion's mane is known is a nootropic, which is a substance that may help improve memory, enhance creativity and basically support overall brain functioning. Mushrooms, especially Lion's Mane, are great for whole body support, but when it comes to supporting your brain, this mushroom is the king of cognition! Eating right, exercising and getting good quality sleep are some of the most important things you can do for your brain health. Eating right Too much sugar in the diet can have harmful and lasting effects on the brain over time. We are now seeing a rise in what experts call type 3 diabetes. This is a condition like type 2 diabetes, but the brain is the organ that is resistant to insulin. Having type 3 diabetes is thought to lead to diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Long story short, too much sugar can cause a lack of clarity, fatigue and early progression of age-related brain disease. Complement a healthy diet with exercise Exercise brings fresh blood flow to the brain and with that, vitamins and minerals. Exercise also helps control blood pressure which is key in preventing stroke. Sleep Good sleep quality is possibly the MOST important avenue to help protect your brain and keep it healthy. Your body repairs during sleep, especially your brain! There is so much evidence emerging on the importance of a good night sleep and the effects it has on the brain. Extra late nights may be worth ‘rethinking’ and enhancing the quality of your sleep should be priority. When thinking of your overall health goals, don’t forget to include your brain in your health regime. Always talk to your Naturopathic Doctor or healthcare provider before making any major changes in your daily regime, such as strenuous exercise or supplementation.