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Autumn 2024 - MarchCOLLAGEN Collagen is exclusive to the animal kingdom, there is no equivalent in the plant kingdom. However, certain vegetables (leafy greens), fruits (berries and citrus) and proteins (egg whites) support the body’s natural production of collagen. Collagen, a major structural protein already present in our body tissues, provides crucial support to build and preserve bone strength and muscle mass, reinforce joint and gut health and revitalise skin. Whilst our bodies produce collagen naturally, they are also able to use the amino acids from protein and collagen rich foods such as bone broth and meat (from cattle, pigs, chicken, fish). These foods contain peptides, which are short strings of amino acids that make up the building blocks of proteins in the body, such as collagen and keratin (keratin is needed for healthy hair and nails). Collagen cannot enter the bloodstream directly; it must be broken down into peptides so that it can be absorbed through the gut. Scientists believe that collagen improves firmness, suppleness, and moisture content of the skin and that it has a softening effect on wrinkles. Since women are believed to lose around 30% of their skin’s collagen in the five years following the onset of menopause, this could be of interest to post-menopausal women. Collagen trials are unable to provide conclusive evidence that it was the collagen component that made the difference since the trials often include other ingredients such as minerals, antioxidants, co-enzyme Q10 and hyaluronic acid. They believe collagen works in harmony with other substances (such as hyaluronic acid and elastin) to help maintain skin elasticity, volume, and moisture to achieve a plumper, glowing complexion. Other benefits ascribed to collagen include a reduction in joint aches and pains, improved gut and heart health and a reduced risk of artery disease. Collagen supplements are hydrolysed because the collagen peptides dissolve more readily in water and facilitate easier digestion and absorption. As with all supplements, we advise that you discuss collagen supplementation with your healthcare provider. A frank discussion specific to your state of health and physiological condition should be explored before deciding for or against collagen supplementation. Should you decide to proceed, be patient regarding results. It will take around eight weeks before you experience the results you desire. Available at Dis-Chem • Nutriwomen Laserlift Collagen 5 Ampoules • Dose and Co Marine Collagen Unflavoured • Collagen Lift Red Carpet • Biogen Collagen with Peptan References: www.uclahealth.org / www.health.harvard.edu / www.everydayhealth.com Text Sandie Cormie CONTENTS | 28 BETTER BEAUTY https://bit.ly/3SX4NCP https://bit.ly/3SRrzfo https://bit.ly/3SRrHeS https://bit.ly/434VsxtPage 27Page 29

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A HAIR AFFAIR HAIR LOSS IN MEN IS EXTREMELY COMMON, BUT CATCHING IT AND TREATING IT EARLY CAN OFTEN SLOW DOWN THE PROCESS DRAMATICALLY. Text Georgia South CONTENTS | 30 BETTER BEAUTY https://bit.ly/49oa9Ox

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G ENERALLY SPEAKING, WE LOSE 50 TO 100 HAIRS DAILY, BUT DON’T EVEN NOTICE IT BECAUSE THE LOST HAIRS ARE CONSTANTLY BEING REPLACED BY NEW ONES. BALDNESS IS ONLY NOTICEABLE WHEN WE LOSE MORE HAIRS THAN ARE BEING REPLACED OR IF NEW HAIRS STOP GROWING. BY THE TIME WE NOTICE HAIR LOSS ON THE HEAD, OFTEN HALF THE ORIGINAL HAIR VOLUME HAS ALREADY BEEN LOST. Truth is that hair loss is far more common in men than in women, and men can be affected as early as their teens. Interestingly, it’s said that 20% of men in their twenties are afflicted by male pattern baldness; 30% in their thirties and so on through life. Most commonly, baldness starts on the crown at the back of the head, as a receding hairline, or on top of the head. However, over 95% of all male hair loss is caused by male pattern baldness. FACT OR FICTION? WHAT CAUSES MALE PATTERN BALDNESS? Called Androgenic alopecia, male pattern baldness is genetic and affects ‘Bald men have higher levels of testosterone and are more virile.’ Actually, men with male pattern baldness usually have lower circulating levels of testosterone. more than half of men over 50 years old. It’s definitely the most common reason for men losing their hair as they age. Are there other causes of hair loss in men? Yes, there are. Environmental causes, chronic stress or stressful events, and various medications for arthritis, gout, high blood pressure, acne, heart disease, depression and cancer can also be causes of hair loss. Thyroid and hormonal issues, scalp psoriasis and infections, as well as autoimmune conditions can all cause hair loss in men – and women too. Other causes could relate to diabetes, lupus, iron deficiency, poor nutrition, celiac disease, syphilis and hair pulling disorder, amongst others. HOW CAN HAIR LOSS BE TREATED? There are various tools to treat hair loss, from lifestyle changes to hair transplants, diet modifications and laser treatments. There are some natural treatment options to consider too. CONTENTS | 31 BETTER BEAUTY https://bit.ly/48z0Km3