SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Collagen is a type of protein. The building blocks of protein are amino acids. Skin, tendons, ligaments, bones, blood vessels and connective tissues are all made up of collagen.

There are at least 28 different types of collagen. Types I, II and III form the bulk of the collagen in your body. Types I and III provide structure to the skin, muscles and ligaments, while type II is found in cartilage and the eyes. Typically around 1% of collagen is lost per year from our early 20’s, resulting in dehydration and thinning of the skin; stiff or aching joints; aching muscles; dull or thin hair; and abnormal blood pressure.

The terms “collagen peptides “and “hydrolyzed collagen” both mean collagen that is broken down into a protein powder.

What happens when collagen is consumed?

Contrary to popular understanding, collagen does not remain in its complex original form and is broken down into its amino acid building blocks by digestion. To restore the complex triple-helix collagen form again, additional ingredients are required, namely Vitamin C, Zinc, Sulphur and Manganese. Without additional fortification of these vitamins and minerals, the collagen being ingested cannot fulfill its promise of collagen replenishment and the benefits associated with it.

When collagen peptides are consumed, they serve as building blocks for other proteins or collagen production. As we ingest collagen, it goes into a pool of amino acids, and our bodies are intelligent enough to decide where it should go. For example, if a wound needs healing, then that healing is prioritized. If skin elasticity or joint health needs priority, then it is where it will go. This is why people experience different benefits from collagen supplementation.

Our research has shown that 10+ grams of collagen is needed for sufficient collagen supplementation.

The New Frontier in Collagen

A collagen-based product needs these key ingredients for success:

• Hydrolysed, high-quality collagen Type I and III

• Fortification with sources of Vitamin C, Zinc, Sulphur, Manganese

• Formulated by specialists who are trained in pharmacology and the interactions of substances in the body

• Production in a responsible and ethically-motivated facility with GMP compliance that specializes in the production of medical grade pharmaceutical and complementary medicine products

The product must deliver on its promises of pain & mobility support, aid weight management, immunity, protection from free radicals, gut health, and improved better skin, hair and nails.

Enter DEFIANCE™

Sprezzatura, known for its ground-breaking Weight Loss products, has gone a step further with the new collagenbased formulation, DEFIANCE™, developed by pharmacologist, Edwin Govender.

Besides the key success ingredients, Defiance includes the following to support your body:

• High-quality Type I & III Bovine-based Collagen, certified Halaal at source

• Vitamin C, Zinc and Manganese to rebuild the triple-helix collagen

• Extra BCAA’s (Leucine, Valine and Isoleucine) to stimulate protein building in muscle and possibly reduce muscle breakdown.

• Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and source of Sulphur.

• Glucosamine to build and repair cartilage.

• Chondroitin is a vital component of cartilage, giving it elasticity.

• Hyaluronic Acid to help skin stretch and flex and reduce skin wrinkles & lines. It also helps with the reduction of hyperpigmentation and blemishes.

• Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that reduces the effects of sun damage, alcohol, smoking and stress.

• Vitamin C is an antioxidant necessary for the growth, development and repair of all body tissues.

• Zinc helps immune system and metabolism function.

• Vitamin K2 contributes to skin health and bone metabolism.

• Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant needed for immune health.

• Manganese helps the body form connective tissue & bones.

• Selenium is a nutrient that plays a key role in maintaining thyroid hormone metabolism and DNA synthesis.

• Vitamin D3 for strengthening bones and muscles and boosting immunity.

• Astaxanthin has been linked to healthier skin and endurance.

• Biotin helps improve skin’s hydration, smoothness and appearance.