Collagen constitutes between 25-30% of all the protein in the human body. It is a major structural protein which forms molecular chains that strengthen the tendons and large strong sheets which support the skin and internal organs. It is also a major element of our hair and nails, whilst mineral crystals added to collagen make bones and teeth.

Structurally, collagen is composed of three chains, which are wound together in a tight triple helix. Each chain is over 1,400 amino acids long and a repeated sequence of three amino acids, proline, glycine and lysine make up this sturdy structure. Vitamin C is vital for the cross-linking of the three chains and this is what gives the structure its strength.

Collagen constitutes 1-2% of muscle tissue and accounts for six percent of the weight of strong, tendinous muscles. Known as ‘the glue that holds the body together’, it provides an essential structure to our bodies, protecting and supporting the softer tissues and connecting them with the skeleton. Collagen in healthy tissue is very strong and, on weight basis, is almost as strong as steel.

The good news is that supplements, such as Collagen Hydrolysate by Xenca, can help to alleviate the symptoms of ageing and wear and tear. It is worth noting that the Xenca collagen products have been certified as safe for use by elite athletes by the world renowned HFL Sports Science Laboratory. These products are already being used to aid recovery from injury and hard training sessions.

Increasingly more people with conditions, such as osteoarthritis, are deriving benefits from Collagen Hydrolysate in terms of pain relief and increased mobility in joint function.

Nigel Dacombe
Associate Shareholder
wellbeingsynergy.co.uk

The post Slow down the wear & tear of ageing! appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

So decide, how do you want to age?

Your posture is a good indicator of how well you will age
When you have good posture your nerves and body will be able to work and function the way they are supposed to. However, with most of us now spending nine hours a day sitting down, our sedentary modern lifestyles are fast becoming a serious threat to our health. These prolonged periods of inactivity not only increase our risk of obesity, they also affect our body shape and posture which can, in turn, lead to a whole range of health problems. It is therefore no surprise that sitting has been blamed as the new smoking!

Poor posture over time changes the shape of your spine and affects your health!
Modern technology sees many of us hunch over our smartphones and sitting slumped in front of a computer for hours. It’s these commonly adopted positions that can lead to a loss of the essential cervical (neck) curvature. Another change often seen is a thoracic hyperkyphosis, which is sometimes referred to as ‘Dowagers Hump’ This is an exaggerated curve backwards of the middle of the back. These changes in the shape of your spine can impair mobility and balance as we age and increase the risk of falls and fractures. It is known that those with a hyperkyphotic posture have a forty-four percent greater risk of mortality than those without! The increased risk of death presented by a body mass index greater than 30 is of a similar value. A lack of physical activity, a poor diet, a stressful lifestyle, as well as smoking and regular alcohol consumption will also contribute to a decline in your health as you age.

Poor Posture leads to decreased health and independence as we age
For many years Chiropractors have assisted their community by not only keeping people pain free, though also in helping everyone develop a healthy lifestyle. By detecting joints of the spine that are not moving properly and irritating the adjacent nerves, Chiropractors can restore function to those areas and remove the irritation to the nervous system.

Research shows that better posture equals greater independence and health status as we age
This realignment helps assist your body to heal, to achieve its optimum potential, improve overall posture and create a lifestyle full of vitality. To show how important this is, studies have shown that those with better posture have a greater independence and better health status as they age. Therefore posture and health are intrinsically linked.

Change your future with Chiropractic and ultimately stand taller, move better and live better! Also, maintain regular physical activity, a natural, balanced diet, a lifestyle of minimised stress, as well as avoiding smoking and regular alcohol consumption.

Rachel Hodson, MChiro D.C BSc(Hons) is a Chiropractor at Equilibrium Health Centre, 16 Station Street, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 2DB
01273 470955
rachelhodson81 @gmail.com

Useful links:
united-chiropractic.org
equilibrium-clinic.com
leweschiropractor.uk

The post How do you want to age? appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.