How extra collagen helps your body (Part I) | How extra collagen helps your body (Part II)

How extra collagen helps your body (Part II)

In a recent article, we discussed the extra cellular matrix of the connective tissue of the human body. We learned that a family of cells, known as fibroblasts, secrete a matrix of macromolecules, i.e. polysaccharide chains of glycoaminoglycans (GAGs) and proteoglycans. The GAGs and proteoglycan molecules form a gel-like substance, which helps the body resist compressive forces and allows rapid diffusion of nutrients, hormones and metabolites between blood and tissue. In addition, the extra-cellular matrix can expand and contract, which can inhibit and prevent admission of toxins, poisons, and some viruses and bacteria.

In a recent article in the Journal of Applied Nutrition, Mathias Rath, M.D., discussed the extra-cellular matrix of the vascular wall. The article promotes the hypothesis that atherosclerosis is a cellular micronutrient deficiency. (Atherosclerosis is a common form of arteriosclerosis in which fatty substances form a deposit of plaque on the inner lining of arterial walls.)

In the Journal of Applied Nutrition, Mathias Rath, M.D. explains that mechanically stressed organs such as the heart, skin, and vascular walls activate a compensating mechanism that provides lipoproteins which "patch" the defect in an attempt to enhance and support structural stability, thus beginning the formation of atherosclerotic plague. Dr. Rath's research supports strongly, the hypothesis that atherosclerosis is a cellular micronutrient deficiency disorder.

The natural healing process of the blood vessels, heart and skin is collagen synthesis and remodeling of the extra-cellular matrix. The significant contribution of Dr. Rath's research is that an abundance of the amino acid proline and lysine, from collagen, act as a Teflon-like layer around the lipoprotein plaque particles and detach them from their anchor sites in the vascular wall and initiate the reversal of plaque deposits. Further, collagen supplementation, when coupled with Vitamin C, stimulates the natural repair process to rebuild and reinforce the vascular wall.

In Spain, Portugal, and Italy, glucosamine sulfate has been the treatment of choice since the early 1980's. Glucosamine is required for the synthesis of GAGs. The synthesis of glucosamine, coming from glucose and glutamine in the body, tends to be slowed and diminished in later life. Long-chain GAGs, such as chondroitan sulfate, have inhibitory actions and processes against enzymes which cause degenerative joint diseases. Repair of the extra-cellular matrix, which is destroyed in arthritis, needs collagen supplementation coupled with glucosamine sulfate for reversal. In a study by R. Luke, Ph.D., it was found that 95 per cent of all patients treated with bovine collagen and glucosamine sulfate had reversal of arthritis compared to 72 per cent in patients taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis affecting more than 40 million Americans. It is characterized by joint degeneration, loss of cartilage, alterations of subchondrial bone and damage to the extra-cellular matrix. There is a 35 per cent incidence of weakness in the knees as early as age 30. Its incidence increases dramatically with age, affecting 80 per cent of all persons over the age of 50.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the common medical treatment but these medications have adverse side-affects in the gastrointestinal tract and actually accelerate cartilage destruction and aggravate osteoarthritic conditions. Elimination of genus Solanaceae (the nightshade family, which includes tomato, potato, eggplant, pepper, and tobacco) is suggested, as the alkaloids present in these foods inhibit normal collagen repair.

Oral and injectable forms of proteoglycans, GAGs, and bovine collagen have proven a significant improvement over non-steroidal and steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Vitamin C, glucosamine sulfate, chondroitan sulfate, and collagen are naturally occurring substances found in joint structures and have been proven, in numerous studies, to stimulate cartilage regeneration.

A very large study found low Vitamin C intake results in statistically higher risk of heart disease mortality and total mortality in a 10-year period due to lack of stimulation of collagen protection and maintenance of the extra-cellular matrix.

The extra-cellular matrix of tissues and organs is composed of collagen, elastin and ground substances composed of GAGs and non-collagen proteins such as fibropectin and lamin. Defects in synthesis of these compounds can result in macular corneal dystrophy. Proteoglycans are macromolecules, comprised of chains of GAGs covalently bonded to proteins, and are major components of the basement membrane of the intestinal foundation. This basement membrane plays a significant role in intestinal permeability and immunological function.

Intestinal GAGs are severally modified in chronic and inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's Disease, colitis, diverticulitis, and leaky gut syndrome. The gut, more than any other organ, is constantly challenged by bacteria, viruses, and dietary antigens. The structure, function, and integrity of the gut wall and its preservation are directly proportional to the integrity and maintenance of the extra-cellular matrix, collagen synthesis, and GAG production.

Even in autoimmune disease, numerous recent articles report that mucopolysaccharides and amino acid supplementation from bovine collagen, which contains GAGs, including glucosamine and chondroitan sulfates, have been found to enhance T-Cell antibody response in vivo and in vitro.

As more recent and advanced research moves forward, one can only assume that bovine collagen supplementation of 3 to 12 grams per day is an advisable and warranted regime to resist auto-immune system breakdown, degeneration and aging.

By Rena Davis, MSc
Clinical Nutritionist
Biochemist

Rena Davis, MSc is a Clinical Nutritionist and Biochemist and one of EYI’s most popular product consultants and trainers. She operates her own wellness clinic in St. Helens, Oregon, where she has recommended the full range of powerful EYI products to her patients for years. Total Healing is an alternative health care center where Rena, owner/practitioner for over 20 years, provides individualized health care for her clients. Rena is a firm believer in holistic health care and is an ardent student and teacher of the principles of wellness. Rena’s articles are available bi-weekly in EYI’s Essential Express Products Edition e-mail newsletter.

How extra collagen helps your body (Part I) | How extra collagen helps your body (Part II)

Live Well with Calorad!

How extra collagen helps your body (Part II)