The Healing Powers of Collagen According to Medical Medium Anthony William

The Healing Powers of Collagen According to Medical Medium Anthony William

Collagen has become an incredibly popular supplement in recent years, with claims that it can improve skin, hair, nails, joints, and digestion. Much of the hype around collagen stems from Anthony William, also known as the Medical Medium, who has written multiple books touting the benefits of this protein.

But what exactly is collagen, and does it live up to the lofty promises? Let's explore the science behind collagen and see why the Medical Medium believes it holds transformative healing potential.

What is Collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, making up 70% of our skin and 30% of the protein in our bodies. It acts as the main structural protein, providing strength and flexibility to connective tissues like skin, bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, blood vessels, and teeth.

Collagen contains high amounts of the amino acids proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline, which give it unique structural properties. It has a triple helix structure that resembles a twisted rope or cable, making it extremely strong and resilient.

There are at least 16 types of collagen in the body, but 80-90% consists of types I, II, and III:

• Type I - Skin, teeth, bones, tendons, ligaments
• Type II - Cartilage
• Type III - Organs, arteries

Our bodies produce collagen naturally, but this production declines with age, starting in our 20s. By our 40s and 50s, collagen depletion can lead to common signs of aging like wrinkles, sagging skin, stiff joints, and brittle bones.

Why the Medical Medium Recommends Collagen

The Medical Medium believes collagen is a critical supplement because it can help reverse and prevent many chronic symptoms and conditions. He sees collagen deficiencies at the root of dozens of mystery illnesses, particularly those involving the nervous system and brain.

In his books "Medical Medium" and "Medical Medium Life-Changing Foods," Anthony William outlines the key benefits of collagen:

• Repairs leaky gut. Collagen heals intestinal permeability, restoring the gut lining and reducing inflammation.
• Eases joint pain. Collagen provides the building blocks for cartilage and eases stiffness and damage in joints.
• Stimulates hair growth. Collagen strengthens and thickens hair, preventing brittle, thinning hair.
• Brightens skin. Collagen gives skin a healthy, vibrant glow and reduces wrinkles.
• Strengthens teeth and bones. Collagen remineralizes bones and teeth for improved density and strength.

Additionally, the Medical Medium says collagen can alleviate neurological symptoms like brain fog, anxiety, depression, and sleep issues. This is because collagen repairs the protective myelin sheath that covers nerves.

Best Sources of Collagen

The Medical Medium recommends getting collagen from food sources first and supplementing as needed. The best natural sources include:

• Bone broth - Simmering bones in water for an extended time extracts their collagen.
• Meat - Connective tissues in meat are loaded with collagen.
• Egg whites - Despite the yolk's nutrients, egg whites contain the most collagen.
• Spirulina - This freshwater algae is a powerful source of proline.
• Leafy greens - Dark greens like spinach provide collagen building blocks.
• Garlic - Garlic contains high amounts of sulfur and silicone for collagen growth.
• Citrus fruits - Vitamin C in citrus fruits like oranges helps produce collagen.

The Best Collagen Supplements

While food sources are ideal, the Medical Medium recognizes that busy modern lifestyles often require collagen supplementation. He suggests:

• Freshly made bone broth - Look for organic broth simmered for 24+ hours from grass-fed beef or organic chicken.
• Collagen powder - Seek a high-quality powder sourced from grass-fed cows or organic chickens.
• Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides - The Medical Medium specifically recommends this easily digested collagen powder.
• Neocell Super Collagen+C - This powder adds vitamin C for improved collagen absorption.

Avoid collagen capsules, as the Medical Medium finds the fillers and casings problematic. Also be wary of poor quality or overly processed collagen sources.

Collagen Myths and FAQs

Despite the hype around collagen, some myths and questions persist. Let's separate collagen fact from fiction:

Myth: Collagen molecules are too large for the body to absorb when taken as a supplement.

False - Collagen supplements contain hydrolyzed collagen, meaning the proteins are broken down into peptides for easy absorption.

Myth: The collagen we consume directly forms new collagen in the body.

False - The amino acids in collagen we eat provide our cells with the building blocks to produce new collagen.

Myth: Collagen only benefits hair, skin, and nails.

False - Collagen repairs connective tissue throughout the entire body, including bones, muscles, and nerves.

Myth: Taking collagen means you don't need to take other protein supplements.

False - While collagen has unique benefits, you still need balanced protein intake from all amino acids.

Myth: Collagen has no side effects.

False - Some people report bloating, heartburn, and bad taste when taking cheap collagen sources or too high of doses.

FAQ: When is the best time to take collagen?

In the morning on an empty stomach or right before bed. Avoid taking it with protein-heavy meals.

FAQ: Do collagen supplements really work?

Yes, but quality matters. Seek hydrolyzed collagen from grass-fed, pasture-raised, or organic sources for noticeable benefits.

FAQ: How long does it take for collagen supplements to work?

Improvements in skin, hair, and nails may take 2-4 weeks. Joint and digestive benefits may start in 2-3 months with regular use.

How to Restore Collagen Naturally According to the Medical Medium

While supplemental collagen offers proven benefits, Anthony William also reveals key lifestyle tips for regenerating collagen:

Consume More Collagen-Promoting Foods

Fill your diet with vitamin C foods like citrus, leafy greens, and tomatoes to stimulate collagen production. Also include sulfur-rich foods like garlic, onions, asparagus, and cruciferous vegetables.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of pure, clean water. Well-hydrated skin holds onto collagen better than dehydrated skin.

Manage Stress

Chronic stress damages collagen fibers. Try relaxing practices like meditation, yoga, walking, or massage.

Get 7-9 Hours of Sleep

Our bodies repair connective tissues and regenerate collagen while we sleep deeply. Prioritize proper rest.

Quit Smoking

Smoking destroys collagen. The toxins damage collagen production and degrade existing collagen.

Practice Sun Protection

UV rays break down collagen fibers, leading to premature aging. Wear hats, natural sunscreen, and protective clothing.

Avoid Excessive Alcohol

Heavy alcohol intake inhibits the liver's ability to produce collagen. Limit alcohol to occasional moderate amounts.

Reduce Refined Sugar

The glycation process caused by sugar depletes collagen reserves. Cut out processed sweets and refined carbs.

Increase Clean Protein Intake

Getting adequate high-quality protein provides the amino acids to build new collagen.

The Future of Collagen Health According to Medical Medium Anthony William

Collagen research continues to reveal new benefits of this incredible protein. In the future, Anthony William predicts:

• Collagen will become a mainstream medicine for leaky gut syndrome.
• Neurologists will prescribe collagen to improve neurological conditions.
• Collagen will be a key prescription for stabilizing vulnerable pregnancies.
• Athletes will use collagen to enhance performance and accelerate injury healing.
• Collagen will replace many expensive, risky plastic surgery procedures.
• Holistic vets will recommend collagen to treat pet joint issues and allergies.

Additionally, new high-quality collagen sources will emerge, including marine collagens from fish and novel vegetarian sources to support ethical and sustainable production.

The Bottom Line on Collagen According to the Medical Medium

Collagen offers an abundance of benefits for healing and anti-aging. While supplemental collagen provides a convenient solution for busy modern lives, it's best to also focus on collagen-promoting lifestyle habits - following Medical Medium Anthony William's guidance can start you on the path towards collagen restoration and improved wellbeing.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.