In the pursuit of wellness, collagen often takes centre stage for its remarkable benefits in promoting skin health and joint function. As the most abundant protein in the body, comprising about 30% of the total protein content, collagen serves as the primary structural component of connective tissues, earning it the nickname “the glue” that holds our bodies together. But beyond its cosmetic prowess, recent research suggests that collagen may wield unexpected powers in another vital aspect of wellbeing: sleep hygiene.
Collagen, composed of fibre-like protein molecules made up of amino acids, plays a pivotal role in maintaining the health and mechanical properties of the skin. However, its influence extends far beyond skin. Within the intricate web of collagen lies a high concentration of glycine, a crucial amino acid with profound implications for sleep quality.
Studies have revealed a compelling link between glycine consumption and improvements in sleep. Research suggests that consuming approximately 3 grams of glycine about an hour before bedtime can lead to notable enhancements in sleep onset and quality. Individuals who incorporate glycine-rich collagen into their nightly routine often report an easier time falling asleep and experiencing deeper, more restorative rest.
The mechanism behind glycine’s sleep-inducing effects lies in its ability to modulate neurotransmitter activity in the brain. By acting as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, glycine helps calm the nervous system, promoting relaxation and facilitating the transition into a state of restful slumber. As a result, individuals who supplement with glycine-rich collagen may find themselves waking up feeling more refreshed and energised, thanks to the improved quality of their sleep.
However, the benefits of collagen extend beyond its immediate impact on sleep hygiene. Ageing, stress, inflammatory foods, excessive UV light exposure and inadequate sleep all contribute to a decline in collagen production, compromising the structural integrity of connective tissues. Fortunately, dietary interventions offer a promising avenue for slowing this process and preserving collagen levels.
Collagen Types
With 28 different types of collagens found in the body, Type 1 collagen reigns supreme, constituting around 90% of the total collagen content. By prioritising a nutrient-rich diet that supports collagen synthesis, you can mitigate the effects of ageing and lifestyle factors on collagen production. Incorporating collagen-rich foods and supplements into one’s daily regimen provides essential amino acids—such as proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline—that fuel the body’s natural collagen synthesis process, maintaining the health of connective tissues and supporting overall wellbeing.
The journey to optimal sleep hygiene may begin with a simple addition to your nightly routine: a dose of glycine-rich collagen. My go-to is the Cell Squared Beef Bovine Collagen Peptides Powder, sourced from 100% grass-fed and finished cows in the pristine Gulf Region of Australia. With its CellTomic™ ultra-low molecular weight, this collagen ensures optimal absorption of all 18 amino acids, including glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. Notably, their Type I and III collagen offers a rich source of protein, providing essential nutritional support for various aspects of health, including skin, gut, muscle, bone, and digestive system health. It’s also sustainably created right here in Australia, win win!
By harnessing the power of collagen to promote relaxation and enhance sleep quality, you can unlock a world of restorative benefits that extend far beyond the realm of beauty and aesthetics. So, the next time you’re crafting your wellness to-do list, consider bumping collagen consumption to the top—and prepare to experience the transformative effects of sound, rejuvenating sleep.
About Steph
With a passion for spreading a positive message about real food and the incredible effect it has on health, fertility and longevity, Steph launched The Natural Nutritionist in 2011 and is on a mission to inspire others to make health a priority in their lives.
In the pursuit of wellness, collagen often takes centre stage for its remarkable benefits in promoting skin health and joint function. As the most abundant protein in the body, comprising about 30% of the total protein content, collagen serves as the primary structural component of connective tissues, earning it the nickname “the glue” that holds our bodies together. But beyond its cosmetic prowess, recent research suggests that collagen may wield unexpected powers in another vital aspect of wellbeing: sleep hygiene.
By Steph Lowe, BSpExSc GDipHumNutr NSA. The Natural Nutritionist & Cell Squared‘s Nutrition Expert
The Science
Collagen, composed of fibre-like protein molecules made up of amino acids, plays a pivotal role in maintaining the health and mechanical properties of the skin. However, its influence extends far beyond skin. Within the intricate web of collagen lies a high concentration of glycine, a crucial amino acid with profound implications for sleep quality.
Studies have revealed a compelling link between glycine consumption and improvements in sleep. Research suggests that consuming approximately 3 grams of glycine about an hour before bedtime can lead to notable enhancements in sleep onset and quality. Individuals who incorporate glycine-rich collagen into their nightly routine often report an easier time falling asleep and experiencing deeper, more restorative rest.
The mechanism behind glycine’s sleep-inducing effects lies in its ability to modulate neurotransmitter activity in the brain. By acting as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, glycine helps calm the nervous system, promoting relaxation and facilitating the transition into a state of restful slumber. As a result, individuals who supplement with glycine-rich collagen may find themselves waking up feeling more refreshed and energised, thanks to the improved quality of their sleep.
However, the benefits of collagen extend beyond its immediate impact on sleep hygiene. Ageing, stress, inflammatory foods, excessive UV light exposure and inadequate sleep all contribute to a decline in collagen production, compromising the structural integrity of connective tissues. Fortunately, dietary interventions offer a promising avenue for slowing this process and preserving collagen levels.
Collagen Types
With 28 different types of collagens found in the body, Type 1 collagen reigns supreme, constituting around 90% of the total collagen content. By prioritising a nutrient-rich diet that supports collagen synthesis, you can mitigate the effects of ageing and lifestyle factors on collagen production. Incorporating collagen-rich foods and supplements into one’s daily regimen provides essential amino acids—such as proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline—that fuel the body’s natural collagen synthesis process, maintaining the health of connective tissues and supporting overall wellbeing.
The journey to optimal sleep hygiene may begin with a simple addition to your nightly routine: a dose of glycine-rich collagen. My go-to is the Cell Squared Beef Bovine Collagen Peptides Powder, sourced from 100% grass-fed and finished cows in the pristine Gulf Region of Australia. With its CellTomic™ ultra-low molecular weight, this collagen ensures optimal absorption of all 18 amino acids, including glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. Notably, their Type I and III collagen offers a rich source of protein, providing essential nutritional support for various aspects of health, including skin, gut, muscle, bone, and digestive system health. It’s also sustainably created right here in Australia, win win!
By harnessing the power of collagen to promote relaxation and enhance sleep quality, you can unlock a world of restorative benefits that extend far beyond the realm of beauty and aesthetics. So, the next time you’re crafting your wellness to-do list, consider bumping collagen consumption to the top—and prepare to experience the transformative effects of sound, rejuvenating sleep.
About Steph
With a passion for spreading a positive message about real food and the incredible effect it has on health, fertility and longevity, Steph launched The Natural Nutritionist in 2011 and is on a mission to inspire others to make health a priority in their lives.
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