The Perfect Collagen Smoothies

As mentioned above, you can add any protein powder of choice. I personally like to add collagen and I wanted to explain why (and what the health benefits are). So before we get to the Banana Berry Smoothie recipe, here are a few benefits of the amino-acids found in collagen and why one might want to add this supplement to their diet.The short chain amino acids found in collagen peptides are easy to digest, highly-bioavailable (meaning your body can make full use of them), and they're a rich source of important amino acids such as glycine, proline, and glutamine. These amino acids are necessary for detoxification, immune function, healthy digestion, bone health, skin health as well as growth and repair of tissue, tendons, joints and muscles. Promotes healthy skin, hair, and nails. Collagen is a building block for the largest organ of the body, your skin. As we age collagen production naturally decreases, causing wrinkles and thinning skin. Supplementing with collagen daily can improve skin hydration, fine lines, and overall appearance of skin. It also supports the growth of hair and nails. Maintains a healthy gut barrier and supports good digestion. Glutamine and glycine, two amino acids abundant in collagen, are essential for healthy digestion. Glutamine is the preferred fuel for cellular reproduction in the gut, and it supports the healing and growth of new cells and tissues that make up the intestinal tract. Glycine contributes to the production of bile salts which help to digest fat and promote adequate gastric secretion in the stomach, necessary for the breakdown of food. Enhances the immune system. Glutamine, found in collagen, is a key amino acid for a healthy and strong immune system due to its involvement in several immune functions. Glutamine also speeds healing following an injury, stress, surgery, and most major illnesses thanks to its involvement in cellular turnover, cell repair, and the stimulation of immune cells. Improves joint and bone health. Collagen is essential for maintaining and building cartilage. Your body can produce its own collagen with proper hydration and nutrition; however, as you age your ability to produce the collagen essential for supple cartilage decreases, consequently increasing your likelihood of developing osteoarthritis or pain caused by bone rubbing on bone. Supplementing with collagen is an easy way to support joint health by providing the body with the collagen it needs to build and maintain cartilage in your joints. Collagen also contributes to bone health by supporting healthy bone and mineral density. Detoxification. Glutamine and glycine are important for liver health and supporting your body's natural detoxification pathways. Both of these amino acids are necessary for the production of glutathione, which is the antioxidant that's required by the liver to properly do its job.