Collagen is a multi-tasker that stretches beyond skin deep, extending to promoting healthy bones and joints, supporting the gut lining, and promoting wound healing. Let’s dive in further and discuss the vital role collagen plays throughout the rest of the body.
What is the most abundant protein in the body? If you said collagen, you are correct! It accounts for 30% of the body’s protein and provides structure or strength to skin, muscles, bones, connective tissue and the digestive tract. The word collagen originated from the Greek word kólla, meaning “glue”—aptly named since collagen weaves throughout our body acting as the intracellular cement that holds us together.
Sleep is considered to be the third pillar of health, alongside exercise and nutrition. Yet, 1 in 3 Americans do not get the recommended amount of quality sleep on a daily basis, and only 32% of Americans consider their sleep “excellent” or “very good.”1 Sleep is an essential part of our lives, taking up a third of our day, and getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for overall health and wellbeing.
While we can’t always change the stressors in our lives, we can control how we prepare for and manage stress. Beyond common effective ways to combat stress including physical activity, deep breathing and connecting with people, don’t overlook support from therapeutic botanicals. Saffron and echinacea are two herbs that show efficacy in supporting a range of effects of stress by promoting relaxation, a positive mood and emotional balance.