Collagen, its everywhere but how do you choose and what is the most effective? Thank you @outsidemagazine @cleaneatingmag @the_globalglutton for having me as your expert. Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body and it gives skin, bones, tendons, and cartilage their structure. . As we age, our body’s natural production slows down. We lose flexibility, bone density decreases, and skin loses elasticity. Collagen powders are typically from bovine connective tissue. But what if you are living a pescatarian or green lifestyle? . Enter Marine Collagen,(MC) which is made from fish skin and scales. “Many people prefer MC because it is easier to take for religious purposes, has fewer issues like mad cow disease, and is better for the environment,” says Dr. Elizabeth Trattner, A.P.,DOM a Doctor of Chinese and Integrative Medicine. “It isn’t a mammal, and skin and scales are perceived as waste, but this is what is used in marine collagen.” . "Beyond ethical, environmental, and religious reasons, it also happens to offer greater health benefits." “MC is usually hydrolyzed or partially broken down for better digestion,” “It’s bioavailable, which means it’s easier to assimilate and absorbs into the system easier, as well.” . Trattner says it can help boost health in the following areas: . Improving wound healing and tissue regeneration. Mitigating signs of skin aging by improving elasticity and hydration. Reducing hair loss. MC promotes hair growth and decrease hair shedding. Increasing bone density by improving bone formation and decreases degradation. Decreases joint pain by the anabolic effect on cartilage. . MC is generally well-tolerated, but “It can cause a sense of fullness and heartburn, and should not be used if allergic to fish or shellfish,” says Trattner. Look NSF/USP/UL for 3rd party certifications, that avoid heavy metals & ensures it is from 100% fish. “Results take a while and people don’t notice much until 6 to 12 weeks,” Trattner concludes, recommending a scoop or two in your coffee or smoothies. “I usually tell patients to look at their pedicure to see if it is growing out faster.” Fave MC: Holi Mane by @agentnateur or @furtherfood