Nutrition and Integrative Care for Mobility and Injury Recovery at El Paso Back Clinic®
In El Paso, TX, maintaining mobility and flexibility is essential for an active lifestyle, whether you’re recovering from an injury or managing chronic pain. At El Paso Back Clinic®, led by Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, a well-balanced diet and targeted supplementation are combined with chiropractic care to support joint health, reduce inflammation, and enhance muscle and bone function. Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, collagen, and vitamins D and K, alongside supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and turmeric, are key to improving movement and promoting healing. Dr. Jimenez’s integrative approach, incorporating massage therapy, acupuncture, and functional medicine, helps patients recover from motor vehicle accidents, work injuries, sports injuries, and chronic conditions, ensuring natural healing and long-term wellness.
Nutrition for Joint Health and Recovery
A nutrient-dense diet is critical for supporting joint health and aiding recovery, especially for El Pasoans dealing with injuries from accidents or physical strain. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like salmon, chia seeds, and walnuts, reduce inflammation, helping to alleviate joint pain and improve flexibility (StretchIt App, 2023). This is particularly important for those recovering from motor vehicle accidents or sports injuries, where inflammation can prolong discomfort.
Collagen, a primary component of cartilage and tendons, strengthens joints and supports repair. Consuming collagen-rich foods like bone broth or taking supplements can aid recovery from injuries common in El Paso’s active community (Nature’s Best, 2023). Vitamins D and K are vital for bone health, providing stability to joints. Vitamin D, sourced from fortified dairy or El Paso’s sunny environment, enhances calcium absorption, while vitamin K, found in leafy greens like spinach, supports bone mineralization (BetterYou, 2023).
Protein is essential for muscle repair, acting as a protective layer for joints during movement. Foods like eggs, lean meats, and lentils provide amino acids to rebuild muscle tissue, crucial for those healing from work or sports injuries (Nature’s Best, 2023). Hydration is also key, as water lubricates joint cartilage, reducing wear and supporting smooth motion (Spinal Rehab and Chiro Center, 2023).
Supplements can amplify the benefits of a healthy diet, particularly for those recovering from injuries or managing chronic pain. Glucosamine and chondroitin support cartilage health, with glucosamine aiding cartilage production and chondroitin helping joints retain water, improving mobility (VoltaGel, 2023). At El Paso Back Clinic®, Dr. Jimenez often recommends these for patients with joint wear from auto accidents or repetitive work tasks.
Turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, is a potent anti-inflammatory supplement that reduces joint pain, aiding recovery for El Paso’s active residents (ZoharyogaFlex, 2023). Magnesium supports muscle relaxation and flexibility, helping prevent stiffness after injuries (BetterYou, 2023). Collagen supplements strengthen connective tissues, speeding up recovery from sprains or strains, common in sports or workplace injuries (NutritionX, 2023).
Patients are advised to consult Dr. Jimenez or a healthcare professional before starting supplements, especially if they have existing conditions or take medications (MVSU, 2023).
At El Paso Back Clinic®, Dr. Alexander Jimenez, a chiropractor and nurse practitioner, specializes in treating injuries from motor vehicle accidents, work incidents, sports mishaps, and chronic conditions like arthritis or back pain. His dual-scope approach combines chiropractic adjustments with medical evaluations, using advanced diagnostics like X-rays and MRIs to identify issues such as herniated discs or nerve compression (Jimenez, 2023a). This ensures precise, personalized treatment plans for conditions causing pain, numbness, or reduced mobility.
Dr. Jimenez’s ability to provide detailed medical and legal documentation is a key asset for personal injury cases, supporting insurance claims or legal proceedings in El Paso’s vibrant community (Jimenez, 2023b). His focus on addressing the root causes of pain, such as spinal misalignments or soft tissue damage, promotes lasting recovery and improved quality of life.
Integrative Therapies for Comprehensive Rehabilitation
El Paso Back Clinic® offers a holistic approach to recovery, combining chiropractic care, massage therapy, acupuncture, and nutritional guidance. Chiropractic adjustments correct spinal and joint misalignments, relieving pressure and restoring mobility for conditions like whiplash or lower back pain (Jimenez, 2023a). Massage therapy reduces muscle tension and improves blood flow, aiding recovery from soft tissue injuries common in auto accidents or sports (Jimenez, 2023c).
Acupuncture targets pain and inflammation with precise needle placements, making it effective for chronic pain or post-injury recovery (Jimenez, 2023d). Nutritional guidance, including anti-inflammatory diets and supplements like omega-3s or collagen, supports joint and muscle repair, addressing underlying causes and preventing complications like chronic pain or joint degeneration (El Paso Back Clinic, 2023).
This integrative approach promotes natural healing, helping El Paso patients recover from a wide range of injuries while minimizing long-term issues.
At El Paso Back Clinic®, Dr. Jimenez and his team provide personalized care plans that integrate nutrition, chiropractic care, and integrative therapies to address pain and promote wellness. Whether recovering from a car accident, work injury, or sports trauma, the clinic’s holistic approach ensures optimal outcomes. Nutritional strategies, such as incorporating omega-3-rich foods or collagen supplements, support joint health and recovery (El Paso Back Clinic, 2023).
The clinic’s commitment to El Paso’s community is evident in its mission to help patients live pain-free, active lives. Always consult a healthcare professional before making dietary changes or starting supplements to ensure they align with your specific health needs (MVSU, 2023).
At El Paso Back Clinic®, Dr. Alexander Jimenez combines nutrition, supplementation, and integrative therapies to support mobility, flexibility, and injury recovery. A diet rich in omega-3s, collagen, and vitamins D and K, paired with supplements like glucosamine and turmeric, enhances joint health and reduces inflammation. Dr. Jimenez’s expertise in chiropractic care, massage therapy, acupuncture, and functional nutrition provides a comprehensive approach to healing injuries from auto accidents, work, or sports, while preventing long-term complications. The clinic helps El Pasoans live vibrant, pain-free lives. Consult a healthcare professional before starting new dietary or supplement regimens to ensure they suit your needs.
Can bone broth help individuals with gut issues or chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disorder?
Bone Broth Health
Bone broth is a nutrient-rich beverage made by simmering animal bones, typically from beef, chicken, or fish, in water for an extended period (24-72 hours). It can be used as a beverage or as a base for soups, stews, and sauces.
Process
Bones are roasted or boiled to release flavor.
Bones are placed in a pot with water, vegetables (such as onions, carrots, and celery), herbs (such as parsley and thyme), and spices.
The mixture is simmered over low heat for a long time, allowing the bones to release their nutrients and collagen.
The broth is strained to remove the bones and solids.
Nutrients
Bone broth is a healthy source of:
Collagen
A protein that supports skin, hair, and joint health.
Minerals
Including calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and silicon.
Amino acids
Essential for building and repairing tissues.
Bone Broth Health Benefits
While there is limited research on the health benefits, the nutrients in bone broth can be beneficial for:
Joint health
Bone density
Digestion
Gut health
Muscle growth and recovery
Hydration
Reduce inflammation
Improve skin elasticity and appearance
Boost immune system
While research on bone broth’s benefits is still limited, it’s a nutritious and hydrating beverage that supports gut health and recovery after a tough workout. It can be drunk on its own or used in cooking. Bone broth is a delicious way to replenish electrolytes and stay hydrated, whether recovering from a flare-up or an intense workout. It is especially helpful for those dealing with gut issues or chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disorder.
Nutrient-Rich
Bone broth is rich in minerals, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and iodine.
Joint Health
Collagen is the main source of protein found in bones, tendons, and ligaments.
Research suggests that collagen may support joint health, protect the tissues in joints, and improve symptoms of osteoarthritis. (Martínez-Puig D. et al., 2023)
Anti-Inflammatory
Bone broth contains glycine and arginine, amino acids with anti-inflammatory properties.
Incorporating bone broth into one’s diet can help meet protein goals.
One cup of bone broth contains four to 20 grams of protein.
Digestion and Gut Health
Colostrum is the first milk produced after giving birth, and some research suggests this may offer immune-boosting benefits and gut repair, but more research is needed. (Playford R. J., & Weiser M. J. 2021)
Bone broth contains glutamine, an amino acid that can reduce inflammation in the gut, strengthen the gut lining, and maintain a healthy microbiome.
Many bone broths are high in sodium and may not be suitable for individuals on low-sodium diets. It is recommended that individuals consume less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day to support a healthy heart and reduce the risk of high blood pressure, look for other sources of sodium, and incorporate bone broth accordingly. (American Heart Association, 2024) Also, because of the polysaccharides that may leach from the cartilage and the garlic and onions usually present in the bone broth, it’s not suitable for those with a digestive disorder like small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) or individuals following a low-FODMAP diet.
What To Look For
Quality
When possible, choose a bone broth that’s grass-fed and organic.
Quality matters because the process of simmering the bones with water pulls all the nutrients, collagen, and protein into the broth.
Starting with the highest quality ingredients ensures it will be as nutritious as possible.
Type
Various types include chicken, beef, turkey, and bison varieties.
Packaging
Bone broth comes in various packaging, including shelf-stable, frozen, or fresh.
When selecting, consider how often it is used, how much is needed, and storage space.
For individuals who drink bone broth daily, buying it in bulk and storing it in the pantry or freezer may be more budget-friendly.
Consistency
Generally, bone broth is a thick, slightly viscous beverage.
Individuals who prefer a thinner liquid should try a shelf-stable broth, which is usually less gelatinous than frozen bone broths.
Powdered bone broth is also a great option for those who prefer a lighter beverage.
Individuals can choose a low-sodium bone broth to limit sodium intake.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop highly effective treatment plans through an integrated approach for each patient and restore health and function to the body through nutrition and wellness, functional medicine, acupuncture, Electroacupuncture, and integrated medicine protocols. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, prevent injury, and mitigate issues through adjustments that help the body realign itself. The clinic can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal problems.
Reducing Inflammation In The Body
References
Martínez-Puig, D., Costa-Larrión, E., Rubio-Rodríguez, N., & Gálvez-Martín, P. (2023). Collagen Supplementation for Joint Health: The Link between Composition and Scientific Knowledge. Nutrients, 15(6), 1332. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15061332
Chen, S., Kim, W., Henning, S. M., Carpenter, C. L., & Li, Z. (2010). Arginine and antioxidant supplement on performance in elderly male cyclists: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 7, 13. https://doi.org/10.1186/1550-2783-7-13
Razak, M. A., Begum, P. S., Viswanath, B., & Rajagopal, S. (2017). Multifarious Beneficial Effect of Nonessential Amino Acid, Glycine: A Review. Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity, 2017, 1716701. https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/1716701
Playford, R. J., & Weiser, M. J. (2021). Bovine Colostrum: Its Constituents and Uses. Nutrients, 13(1), 265. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13010265
Wang, B., Wu, G., Zhou, Z., Dai, Z., Sun, Y., Ji, Y., Li, W., Wang, W., Liu, C., Han, F., & Wu, Z. (2015). Glutamine and intestinal barrier function. Amino acids, 47(10), 2143–2154. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00726-014-1773-4
Nagahama, K., Nishio, H., Yamato, M., & Takeuchi, K. (2012). Orally administered L-arginine and glycine are highly effective against acid reflux esophagitis in rats. Medical science monitor: international medical journal of experimental and clinical research, 18(1), BR9–BR15. https://doi.org/10.12659/msm.882190
American Heart Association. Association, A. H. (2024). Lifestyle & Risk Reduction, High Blood Pressure. https://www.heart.org/-/media/files/health-topics/answers-by-heart/why-should-i-limit-sodium.pdf
For individuals wanting to improve or maintain skin health, can incorporating acupuncture help improve skin and fight the aging process?
Cosmetic Acupuncture
Cosmetic acupuncture follows the traditional acupuncture practice of needle insertion. The objective is to reverse signs of aging and improve skin health. It is sometimes referred to as acupuncture facial rejuvenation, which has been used as an alternative to surgical facelifts and other conventional procedures. Preliminary studies have examined how it can help remove age spots, lift droopy eyelids, and reduce wrinkles. (Younghee Yun et al., 2013)
How Acupuncture Works
In traditional Chinese medicine or TCM, acupuncture has long been used to improve the flow of energy – qi or chi – throughout the body. This energy is believed to circulate through energy pathways known as meridians. When health problems occur, according to TCM, there are obstructions or blockages in the circulation.
Acupuncturists can restore optimal circulation/flow and improve health by inserting needles into specific acupoints. (National Institutes of Health, 2007)
Cosmetic Acupuncture
Cosmetic acupuncture is said to improve skin health and act as an anti-aging treatment by stimulating the production of collagen. This protein is a major component of the skin. The skin’s inner layer loses collagen and firmness as the body ages. However, further research is needed to support the claim that acupuncture can promote collagen production. Some suggest cosmetic acupuncture helps rejuvenate the skin by improving the body’s overall energy. One study found individuals saw improvements after five sessions of facial cosmetic acupuncture. (Younghee Yun et al., 2013) However, it is recommended that ten treatments be performed once or twice a week for optimum results. After that, maintenance treatments are done every four to eight weeks. Unlike Botox or dermal fillers, cosmetic acupuncture is not a quick fix. The focus is to create long-term changes in the skin and body, which means improved:
When the needles are inserted into the skin, they create wounds known as positive microtraumas. The body’s natural healing and repairing abilities activate when it senses these wounds. These punctures stimulate the lymphatic and circulatory systems, which deliver nutrients and oxygen to the skin cells, nourishing them from the inside out.
This helps even out complexion and promotes skin radiance.
The positive microtraumas also stimulate the production of collagen.
This helps improve elasticity, minimizing lines and wrinkles.
Alternatives
Several natural remedies may help improve skin health and offer anti-aging benefits. Ceramides are a fat molecule found naturally in the top layer of the skin and an ingredient used in skin-care products. These may protect against aging-related dryness in the skin. (L Di Marzio 2008) Preliminary research suggests that applying white tea to the skin may fight the breakdown of collagen and elastin – a protein that supports skin elasticity and prevents sagging). There’s also evidence that natural substances such as argan oil, borage oil, and sea buckthorn may offer moisturizing benefits that could improve skin.(Tamsyn S A Thring et al., 2009)
While further evidence of cosmetic acupuncture is needed, integrating acupuncture can help manage stress and enhance overall health. Individuals considering cosmetic acupuncture should consult their primary healthcare provider to see if it is right for them.
Enhancing Health Together: Embracing Multidisciplinary Evaluation and Treatment
References
Yun, Y., Kim, S., Kim, M., Kim, K., Park, J. S., & Choi, I. (2013). Effect of facial cosmetic acupuncture on facial elasticity: an open-label, single-arm pilot study. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2013, 424313. https://doi.org/10.1155/2013/424313
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. (2007). Acupuncture: An Introduction. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine Website. https://choimd.com/downloads/NIH-info-on-acupuncture.pdf
Kuge, H., Mori, H., Tanaka, T. H., & Tsuji, R. (2021). Reliability and Validity of Facial Check Sheet (FCS): Checklist for Self-Satisfaction with Cosmetic Acupuncture. Medicines (Basel, Switzerland), 8(4), 18. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicines8040018
Di Marzio, L., Cinque, B., Cupelli, F., De Simone, C., Cifone, M. G., & Giuliani, M. (2008). Increase of skin-ceramide levels in aged subjects following a short-term topical application of bacterial sphingomyelinase from Streptococcus thermophilus. International journal of immunopathology and pharmacology, 21(1), 137–143. https://doi.org/10.1177/039463200802100115
Thring, T. S., Hili, P., & Naughton, D. P. (2009). Anti-collagenase, anti-elastase and anti-oxidant activities of extracts from 21 plants. BMC complementary and alternative medicine, 9, 27. https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6882-9-27
Gelatin is a stabilizer and thickener used to make desserts like fruit gelatin, pudding, mousse, marshmallows, candy, cakes, ice cream, and certain yogurts. It is also used in some shampoos and skincare products. Because animal products are used to make gelatin, it is not a vegan-friendly food, and even some non-vegans choose not to eat it. However, there are gelatin alternatives that are made from non-animal sources. The use of gelatin may provide certain health benefits, and there are some medical uses for pharmaceutical-grade gelatin.
Gelatin Health
Gelatin is affirmed as generally recognized as safe/GRAS by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Gelatin is made by boiling the skin, tendons, ligaments, or bones of animals – cows or pigs in water. This process releases collagen, a protein that provides structure and is the most abundant in the human body. Once the collagen is extracted, it is:
Concentrated
Filtered
Cooled
Extruded
Dried
Alternatives
Thickening agents can be made from different ingredients. These include:
Agar-agar
Also called agar, this thickener is made from cooked and pressed seaweed.
This gelling agent is available online and in some supermarkets in powdered, flaked, and bar form.
When cooking with it, substitute agar for gelatin using equal amounts if using the powder.
If using flakes, a tablespoon equals about a teaspoon of the powder.
Certain citrus fruits require more agar when substituting.
Agar does not gel well for recipes that include uncooked mangoes, papaya, and pineapple.
Pectin
Pectin is a gelling agent found naturally in apples and citrus fruits.
Food manufacturers use pectin to make some yogurts and candies and enhance fruit-based beverages.
It can also thicken jams, jellies, and other foods.
This thickener is usually for making softer gels and puddings.
Benefits
Improved Bone Health
A benefit of gelatin is the protection of bones; however, evidence supporting its use is limited.
An early study found that hydrolyzed gelatin, such as pharmaceutical grade, may help reduce pain symptoms in individuals with knee or hip osteoarthritis.
Researchers thought that it could have a beneficial effect on cartilage metabolism.
A study found that adding gelatin to an intermittent exercise program improved collagen synthesis and could aid in injury prevention and tissue repair.
Treatment of Diarrhea
Some studies have suggested that gelatin tannate, which contains tannic acid, can reduce chronic diarrhea.
One study found that using gelatin tannate and other products like probiotics could be effective.
However, further research is needed.
Recipe Alternative
Individuals following specific diets or nutritional plans can use gelatin to thicken foods instead of ingredients that they are avoiding or removing from their eating plan.
It can be used by those following low or no – carb or grain-free diets.
Individuals with wheat allergies, celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, or who follow a gluten-free diet can use gelatin or other thickeners instead of flour.
Adding flour to foods like soups and stews can increase the carbohydrate count.
Cornstarch is one replacement that thickens when food is heated, like flour; however, gelatin thickens when food is cooled.
For example, some chefs use 1 ½ teaspoons of gelatin per cup of stock to thicken soups.
Nutrition
The USDA provides the following nutrition information for a single envelope or around one tablespoon/7 grams of gelatin.
Carbohydrates
There are about 30 calories per tablespoon, and none of the calories are from carbohydrates.
There are 0 grams of total carbohydrates, 0 grams of sugar, and 0 grams of fiber.
Because there are no carbohydrates, it will not impact blood sugar levels.
However, it is not usually consumed by itself.
It is commonly used to thicken desserts with sugar and carbohydrates that can elevate blood sugar levels.
Fats
There is no fat in a tablespoon serving of gelatin.
A 100-gram serving contains less than a gram of fat.
Protein
Gelatin provides about 6 grams of protein in one tablespoon serving.
It should not be considered a high-protein food.
Vitamins and Minerals
The powder does not contribute any significant micronutrients.
Does not provide vitamins or minerals.
Storage and Safety
It should be kept in a sealed container and stored in a cool, dry place.
It should stay fresh for about three years when unopened and stored correctly.
It should not be frozen.
Chiropractic Success Story
References
Blanco, Francisco J, and Ronald K June 2nd. “Cartilage Metabolism, Mitochondria, and Osteoarthritis.” The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons vol. 28,6 (2020): e242-e244. doi:10.5435/JAAOS-D-19-00442
Daneault, Audrey, et al. “Biological effect of hydrolyzed collagen on bone metabolism.” Critical Reviews in food science and Nutrition vol. 57,9 (2017): 1922-1937. doi:10.1080/10408398.2015.1038377
Florez, Ivan D et al. “Gelatin tannate for acute diarrhea and gastroenteritis in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” Archives of Disease in Childhood vol. 105,2 (2020): 141-146. doi:10.1136/arch dis child-2018-316385
Hölzl, Katja, et al. “Gelatin methacryloyl as an environment for chondrocytes and cell delivery to superficial cartilage defects.” Journal of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine vol. 16,2 (2022): 207-222. doi:10.1002/term.3273
Lopetuso, L et al. “Gelatin tannate and tyndallized probiotics: a novel approach for the treatment of diarrhea.” European Review for Medical and pharmacological sciences vol. 21,4 (2017): 873-883.
Shaw, Gregory, et al. “Vitamin C-enriched gelatin supplementation before intermittent activity augments collagen synthesis.” The American Journal of clinical nutrition vol. 105,1 (2017): 136-143. doi:10.3945/ajcn.116.138594
Tehranzadeh, J et al. “Cartilage metabolism in osteoarthritis and the influence of viscosupplementation and steroid: a review.” Acta radiologica (Stockholm, Sweden : 1987) vol. 46,3 (2005): 288-96. doi:10.1080/02841850510016027
Bone broth is a soothing, low in calories, flavorful comfort food that is packed with nutrients and highly beneficial for the spine. Bone broth is made from slowly simmering meat or poultry and is an old-fashioned home remedy for a variety of ailments. These include:
Improves joint movement
Helps wounds heal faster
Improves immune system function
Rebuilds bones
Nutrients are connected with healthy bones and joints. These include:
Calcium
Phosphorous
Vitamin D
Collagen protein
All of these are concentrated in animal bones. The bones are cracked and cooked in a stockpot of water on a slow simmer. The breakdown releases vitamins, fatty acids, manganese, zinc, iron, and selenium. The broth helps supply the bones with these nutrients.
Bone broth is also effective when keeping track of weight because it is nourishing and hearty but low in calories. One cup of broth eaten or drank a half-hour before a meal can keep appetite in check. When hunger stays in check it is easier to maintain a healthy diet, portion sizes, and not overeat.
Bone Broth Recipe
Simmering bones in water with added vegetables, spices, vinegar, and herbs over low heat for a few hours is bone broth. A recipe for bone broth typically includes a tablespoon or two of vinegar or lemon juice. This helps soften the bones to break them down and release more nutrients. This will make around 2 quarts or 8 cups of bone broth. In a stockpot combine:
2 to 3 pounds of leftover cooked beef, chicken bones
1 chopped onion
1 chopped carrot
1 chopped rib of celery
1 tablespoon balsamic or red wine vinegar
1 bay leaf
6 peppercorns
Enough water to cover the ingredients
Add 1 cup of chopped fresh or canned tomatoes for extra flavor
Bring to a boil over high heat
Reduce heat to a low simmer, partially covered, 4 to 6 hours
During the first half-hour of simmering, skim off the foam that collects at the top.
Strain cooled broth into a bowl or jar
Refrigerate the broth up to 5 days or freeze up to a couple of months
Don’t Overdo It
When it comes to nutrients in food, it is possible to get too much. An example is of an individual in training that drank one to two quarts of bone broth three days a week for six months. They began to suffer from chronic vomiting. The doctor diagnosed there was too much vitamin D from the fatty marrow in the bones used to make the broth. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium. Too much calcium in the blood was causing the vomiting.
Another potential issue with drinking too much bone broth is lead contamination. Many foods contain small amounts of lead. In animals, any environmental lead that gets into the body gets stored in bone tissue. A healthy, well-nourished individual can handle small amounts of lead. When it comes to bone broth, lead is only a concern if taking abnormal quantities. The broth can also be used as a base for soups and stews keeping the body healthy along with the emotional benefits of a nutrient-rich broth. The body will feel the difference.
Chiropractic Care Knee Injury
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
If you are experiencing any of these situations, then your collagen peptides might be low.
There have been new studies on how collagen can improve body composition when it is combined with daily exercises. Collagen in the body has a unique amino acid composition that plays an essential role in the body’s anatomy. Collagen protein is a concentrated source of glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, and when it is being compared to all the other dietary proteins, it makes collagen a potential practical choice as a structural protein.
In a 2015 study, researchers have demonstrated how efficient collagen supplements can improve body composition in active males. The results show how each male individuals are participating in weight training at least three times a week and have to supplement with at least 15 grams of collagen peptides to achieve maximum health. The assessments that the test provide are strength test, bioimpedance analysis (BIA), and muscle biopsies. These tests make sure that the male individuals are performing well after taking the collagen supplements, and the results show how their body mass had an increase of fat-free body mass. Another study showed how collagen protein supplementation when it is combined with resistance training that can increase muscle mass and muscle strength with the elderly as well as people with sarcopenia.
Beneficial Properties With Collagen
There are many beneficial properties that collagen supplements can provide to the body when it is consumed. There are hydrolyzed collagen and gelatin and can help improve a person’s skin structure. Even though there are not many studies on collagen supplements, there are excellent promises for the areas on the body. They are:
Muscles mass: Collagen supplements, when combined with strength training, can increase muscle mass and strength in the body.
Arthritis: Collagen supplements can help people with osteoarthritis. Studies show that when people osteoarthritis take collagen supplements, they discovered a massive decline in the pain they were experiencing.
Skin elasticity: In a 2014 study, it stated that women who took collagen supplements and has shown improvements in skin elasticity. Collagen can also be used in topical treatments to help improve the appearance of a person�s skin by minimizing fine lines and wrinkles.
Not only collagen supplements provide beneficial properties to the specific areas on the body, but there are the four main types of collagen and what is their roles in the human body as well as their functions:
Type 1: Type 1 collagen took account of 90% of the body’s collagen and made up of densely packed fibers that provide structures to the skin, bones, connective tissues, and teeth that are in the body.
Type 2: Type 2 collagen is made up of loosely packed fibers that are found in the elastic cartilage, which helps cushion the joints in the body.
Type 3: Type 3 collagen helps support the structure of the muscles, organs, and arteries that make sure that the body is functioning correctly.
Type 4: Type 4 collagen is found in the layers of everyone�s skin and helps with the filtration in the body.
Since these four types of collagen are in the body, it is essential to know that collagen can naturally decrease over time with age since the body will produce a lesser lower quality of collagen. One of the visible signs of decrease collagen is when the skin on the human body becomes less firm and supple as well as weaken cartilage due to aging.
Factors That Can Damage Collagen
Even though collagen can decrease naturally with age, many factors can destroy collagens that are harmful to the skin. The harmful factors can include:
Sugar and Carbs: Refined sugars and carb can interfere with collagen�s ability to repair itself on the skin. So by minimizing sugar and carb consumption in the body, it can reduce the effects of vascular, renal, and cutaneous tissue dysfunction.
Sun Exposure: Even though getting enough sun can help a person enjoy the day, however, being exposed to the sun for an extended period can cause damaged to the skin and destroy collagen peptides. The effects of overexposure of the sun can cause the skin to photo age and produce oxidative stress in the body.
Smoking: When a person smokes, it can reduce collagen production in the body, causing the body to have premature wrinkles, and if the body is wounded, the healing process will be slower and can lead to ailments in the body.
Autoimmune Diseases: Some autoimmune diseases can also damage collagen production like lupus.
Conclusion
Collagen is vital for the body as it helps the skin be gentle and firm. Naturally, it will decrease as a person gets older, so taking collagen supplements can make sure that the body can function correctly. When harmful factors are affecting the body, they can stop or even damage collagen production and accelerate the process of premature wrinkles from forming, making a person look older than they are. Some products can help the body’s cellular activity by providing more excellent stability, bioavailability, and digestive comfort.
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and nervous health issues or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health protocols to treat injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.
References:
Bosch, Ricardo, et al. �Mechanisms of Photoaging and Cutaneous Photocarcinogenesis, and Photoprotective Strategies with Phytochemicals.� Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland), MDPI, 26 Mar. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4665475/.
Danby, F William. �Nutrition and Aging Skin: Sugar and Glycation.� Clinics in Dermatology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20620757.
Jennings, Kerri-Ann. � Collagen – What Is It and What Is It Good For?� Healthline, 9 Sept. 2016, www.healthline.com/nutrition/collagen.
Jurgelewicz, Michael. �New Study Demonstrates the Benefits of Collagen Peptides for Improving Body Composition Combined with Exercise.� Designs for Health, 31 May 2019, blog.designsforhealth.com/node/1031.
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