Collagen: A Promising Supplement for PCOS Management through Nutrition

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects many women. It is characterized by an imbalance of reproductive hormones, leading to various symptoms such as irregular periods, infertility, and excessive hair growth. While the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, researchers have found a link between collagen and PCOS management. In this blog post, we will explore the science behind collagen's impact on PCOS and the benefits it can provide for women with this condition.What is collagen?Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, making up about 30% of our total protein content. It is a major component of connective tissues, such as skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Collagen provides structural support and strength to these tissues, ensuring their proper function.Understanding PCOSPCOS is a complex hormonal disorder that affects the ovaries. It is characterized by the presence of multiple cysts on the ovaries, irregular menstrual cycles, and high levels of androgens (male hormones) in the body. Women with PCOS often experience symptoms such as weight gain, acne, and hair loss.The link between collagen and PCOSResearch studies have shown that collagen plays a crucial role in hormonal balance, which is disrupted in women with PCOS. Collagen helps regulate the production and activity of hormones, including insulin and androgens. Insulin resistance is a common feature of PCOS, and collagen has been found to improve insulin sensitivity, leading to better blood sugar regulation.Furthermore, collagen can help reduce androgen levels in the body. Androgens are responsible for many of the symptoms associated with PCOS, such as excessive hair growth and acne. By balancing hormone levels, collagen can alleviate these symptoms and improve overall well-being.Benefits of collagen for PCOSThere are several benefits of incorporating collagen into a PCOS management plan:Improved insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulationCollagen has been found to improve insulin sensitivity, which is crucial for women with PCOS who often struggle with insulin resistance. By enhancing insulin sensitivity, collagen helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.Reduction in androgen levels and related symptomsHigh levels of androgens in the body can lead to unwanted symptoms such as excessive hair growth and acne. Collagen helps balance hormone levels, reducing the production of androgens and alleviating these symptoms.Enhanced fertility and regulation of menstrual cyclesPCOS is a leading cause of infertility in women. By improving hormonal balance, collagen can enhance fertility and regulate menstrual cycles, increasing the chances of conception for women with PCOS.Ways to increase collagen intakeThere are several ways to increase collagen intake:Dietary sources of collagenCollagen can be obtained from various food sources, such as bone broth, fish, chicken, and beef. Consuming these collagen-rich foods can help boost collagen levels in the body. Boost Your Energy with Superfoods and Indulge in Delicious ChocolateCollagen supplements and their effectivenessCollagen supplements are also available in the form of powders, capsules, and drinks. These supplements are easily absorbed by the body and can provide a convenient way to increase collagen intake. However, it is important to choose high-quality supplements from reputable brands to ensure effectiveness. Learn more about Collagen in Powder or Pill: Which is More Effective?Other lifestyle factors for managing PCOSIn addition to incorporating collagen into a PCOS management plan, there are other lifestyle factors that can help manage the condition:Importance of a balanced diet and regular exerciseA balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help regulate hormone levels and improve overall health. Regular exercise, such as aerobic activities and strength training, can also contribute to better hormone balance and weight management.Stress management techniquesStress can worsen PCOS symptoms and disrupt hormone balance. Practicing stress management techniques, such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises, can help reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being.ConclusionCollagen plays a crucial role in the management of PCOS. By improving insulin sensitivity, reducing androgen levels, and enhancing fertility, collagen can provide significant benefits for women with this condition. Incorporating collagen into a PCOS management plan, along with a balanced diet and regular exercise, can help improve symptoms and overall well-being. Consider adding collagen-rich foods or supplements to your daily routine and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

You may have heard about the amazing benefits of collagen supplements for your skin, hair, and nails. Celebrities and influencers rave about them, claiming they can work miracles. But what does the science say? Are collagen peptides supplements really as effective as they claim to be? In this article, we will explore the truth behind collagen supplements and why they may not work as expected.Understanding CollagenBefore diving into the reasons why collagen peptides supplements may not work, let's first understand what collagen is and its role in the body.Collagen is a protein that serves as a building block for our skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissues. It provides structural support and helps maintain the elasticity and strength of these tissues. As we age, our natural collagen production decreases, leading to wrinkles, joint pain, and other signs of aging.The Promise of Collagen SupplementsCollagen supplements, including collagen drinks and powders, have gained popularity in recent years due to their potential anti-aging effects. They claim to improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, strengthen hair and nails, and even support joint health. However, the scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited.Scientific EvidenceA study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology analyzed the existing scientific literature on collagen supplements and found that there is insufficient evidence to support their effectiveness. The study concluded that more research is needed to determine the true benefits of collagen supplements.Another study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology evaluated the effects of collagen peptides on skin aging. The researchers found that while collagen peptides may have some positive effects on skin hydration and elasticity, the results were not consistent across all participants. Some individuals showed improvement, while others did not.Reasons Why Collagen Supplements May Not Work1. Quality and Purity: One of the reasons why collagen peptides supplements may not work is the lack of quality control in the industry. Some supplements may contain impurities or low-quality collagen, which can affect their effectiveness.2. Manufacturing Process: The way collagen supplements are manufactured can also impact their efficacy. Inferior manufacturing processes may result in a lower concentration of collagen or changes in its molecular structure, making it less effective.3. Optimal Molecular Size: The molecular size of collagen is crucial for its absorption and bioavailability. If the collagen peptides are too large, they may not be effectively absorbed by the body, limiting their benefits.4. Insufficient Duration: Collagen supplements may require long-term use to see noticeable results. Taking the supplement for a short period may not provide enough time for the collagen to integrate into the body's tissues and show its effects.5. Incorrect Dosage: Taking the correct dosage of collagen supplements is essential for their effectiveness. Each individual may have different requirements, and taking an incorrect dosage may not yield the desired results.ConclusionWhile collagen supplements have gained popularity for their potential anti-aging benefits, the scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited. Factors such as quality control, manufacturing processes, molecular size, duration of use, and dosage can all impact the effectiveness of collagen peptides supplements. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it aligns with your specific needs and goals.

Celebrities and influencers rave about collagen drinks and supplements, claiming that they can work wonders for your skin, hair, and nails. But what does the science really say about the effectiveness of collagen supplements?Before you spend your hard-earned money on collagen products, it's important to understand the truth behind the hype. In this article, we'll explore the science behind collagen and why these supplements may not live up to their promises.What is Collagen?Collagen is a protein that serves as a building block for our skin, bones, tendons, and other connective tissues. It provides strength and structure, keeping our skin plump and our joints flexible.As we age, our natural collagen production decreases, leading to wrinkles, sagging skin, and joint stiffness. This has led to the rise of collagen supplements as a way to replenish the body's collagen levels and combat the signs of aging.What Does the Science Say?Despite the claims made by collagen supplement manufacturers, the scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited.A study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology found that oral collagen supplements had no significant impact on skin aging. Another study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology concluded that there was no evidence to support the use of collagen supplements for skin health.While some studies suggest that collagen supplements may improve joint health in individuals with osteoarthritis, the evidence is not consistent. More research is needed to determine the true benefits, if any, of collagen supplements on joint health.Why Collagen Supplements Don't WorkThere are several reasons why collagen supplements may not live up to their claims:Poor Absorption: When you consume collagen orally, it has to go through the digestive process before it can be absorbed into the bloodstream. Some studies suggest that the body may not effectively absorb collagen from supplements, making it less likely to reach the skin or joints in sufficient amounts.Molecular Size: Collagen molecules are large, making it difficult for them to penetrate the skin when applied topically. This raises questions about the effectiveness of collagen creams and serums.Lack of Regulation: The collagen supplement industry is not well-regulated, which means that the quality and efficacy of these products can vary greatly. Without standardized manufacturing processes and quality control, it's challenging to determine the true content and effectiveness of collagen supplements.Should You Try Collagen Supplements?While the scientific evidence supporting collagen supplements is limited, some individuals may still choose to try them. It's important to approach collagen supplements with realistic expectations and consider other factors that can support skin and joint health:Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can provide the necessary building blocks for collagen production.Protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays by wearing sunscreen and seeking shade can help prevent collagen breakdown.Engaging in regular exercise can promote collagen synthesis and improve joint health.Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as they can accelerate collagen loss.The Bottom LineWhile collagen supplements may be popular in the beauty and wellness industry, the scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited. Collagen molecules are large and may not be effectively absorbed by the body when taken orally or applied topically. Additionally, the lack of regulation in the industry makes it difficult to determine the quality and efficacy of these supplements.Instead of relying solely on collagen supplements, focus on overall lifestyle factors that can support your skin and joint health. Eating a healthy diet, protecting your skin from the sun, exercising regularly, and avoiding harmful habits can have a more significant impact on your overall well-being.

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the benefits of collagen for women's hair. In this article, we will explore the potential benefits of collagen for hair growth, discuss different types of collagen and their applications, and provide alternatives to collagen for hair regrowth. Whether you're looking to improve the health and appearance of your hair or combat hair loss, this guide will provide you with valuable information and insights.Does Collagen Support Hair Growth?Studies on the effects of collagen on hair growth in humans are still inconclusive. While some research suggests that collagen may promote hair growth, there is a need for further studies to establish a definitive link. However, collagen offers various potential benefits for hair health, which we will explore in the following sections.Collagen Protein and Hair Growth: What Works?Collagen is a protein that plays a crucial role in the structure and strength of our hair. It provides essential amino acids that support hair follicle health and hair growth. While the direct impact of collagen on hair growth is still being researched, ensuring an adequate intake of collagen protein through diet or supplements can contribute to overall hair health.Collagen Types and Hair ApplicationThere are different types of collagen, such as type I, type II, and type III, each with its own unique properties. Type I collagen is the most abundant in our bodies and is found in our hair, skin, and nails. Type II collagen is primarily present in cartilage, while type III collagen provides structural support to various tissues.When it comes to hair application, collagen can be used topically or consumed orally. Topical collagen treatments, such as collagen-infused shampoos or conditioners, may help improve the appearance and texture of hair. Oral collagen supplements can provide essential amino acids and nutrients to support hair health from within.Should Anyone Not Use Collagen for Their Hair?While collagen is generally safe for most people, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. If you have specific dietary restrictions or allergies, it's essential to choose collagen sources that align with your needs. Additionally, if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking medications, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements or treatments.Collagen Alternatives for Hair RegrowthIf collagen is not suitable for you or you're looking for alternative options, there are several alternatives to consider for hair regrowth. Some popular alternatives include biotin, keratin, and certain vitamins and minerals that support hair health. However, it's important to note that the effectiveness of these alternatives may vary, and it's best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable option for you.ConclusionWe hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with valuable insights into the benefits of collagen for women's hair. While the direct impact of collagen on hair growth is still being researched, collagen offers potential benefits for overall hair health. Whether you choose to incorporate collagen into your hair care routine or explore alternative options, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable approach for you. Remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and proper hair care, is essential for promoting hair growth and maintaining beautiful, vibrant hair.

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the best collagen supplements for women. Collagen is a protein that plays a vital role in maintaining the health and elasticity of our skin, hair, nails, and joints. As we age, our body's collagen production naturally declines, which can lead to signs of aging and joint discomfort. Fortunately, collagen supplements can help replenish our body's collagen levels and support our overall health and well-being.What is Collagen?Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body, making up a significant portion of our skin, hair, nails, and connective tissues. It provides structure, strength, and elasticity to these tissues, keeping them firm and supple.There are different types of collagen, but the most common types found in supplements are type I, II, and III. Type I collagen is responsible for maintaining the health and structure of our skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Type II collagen is found in our cartilage and is essential for joint health. Type III collagen is often found in combination with type I collagen and provides support to our skin, blood vessels, and internal organs.The Benefits of Collagen SupplementsCollagen supplements have gained popularity for their numerous health benefits. Here are some of the key benefits of incorporating collagen supplements into your daily routine:Improved Skin Health: Collagen helps to promote skin elasticity and hydration, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It can also support the production of other proteins like elastin and fibrillin, which contribute to skin elasticity.Joint Pain Relief: Collagen is a major component of our cartilage, which acts as a cushion between our joints. Supplementing with collagen can help reduce joint pain and discomfort, especially for individuals with conditions like osteoarthritis.Stronger Hair and Nails: Collagen provides the building blocks for healthy hair and nails. Taking collagen supplements can help improve hair thickness, strength, and promote nail growth.Supports Gut Health: Collagen contains amino acids like glycine and glutamine, which are beneficial for gut health. These amino acids can help repair the lining of the gut, reducing inflammation and improving digestive function.May Aid in Weight Loss: Collagen is a highly satiating protein that can help curb appetite and reduce cravings. Including collagen supplements in your diet may support weight loss efforts.Enhances Bone Health: Collagen is a crucial component of our bones, providing them with strength and flexibility. Supplementing with collagen can help improve bone density and reduce the risk of conditions like osteoporosis.Promotes Heart Health: Collagen plays a role in maintaining the structure and integrity of our blood vessels. By supporting the health of our blood vessels, collagen supplements may contribute to a healthier heart.May Boost Muscle Mass: Collagen contains the amino acid arginine, which helps stimulate the production of creatine in the body. Creatine is essential for muscle growth and can aid in improving muscle mass and strength.How to Choose the Best Collagen SupplementWith so many collagen supplements available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the best collagen supplement for your needs:Type of Collagen: Depending on your specific health concerns, you may need a collagen supplement that focuses on a particular type of collagen. For example, if you're primarily looking to improve joint health, a collagen supplement rich in type II collagen may be the best choice.Quality and Purity: Look for collagen supplements that are sourced from reputable manufacturers and undergo rigorous testing to ensure quality and purity. It's important to choose supplements that are free from additives, fillers, and unnecessary ingredients.Formulation and Bioavailability: Collagen supplements come in various forms, including powders, capsules, and liquids. Consider which form is most convenient for you to incorporate into your daily routine. Additionally, look for supplements that contain collagen peptides, which are more easily absorbed by the body.Additional Ingredients: Some collagen supplements may contain additional ingredients like vitamins, minerals, or antioxidants that provide added health benefits. Assess your specific needs and choose a supplement that includes ingredients that align with your goals.Customer Reviews and Recommendations: Reading customer reviews and recommendations can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness and quality of a collagen supplement. Look for supplements with positive reviews and recommendations from trusted sources.Our Top Picks for the Best Collagen Supplements for WomenAfter careful research and consideration, we have curated a list of our top picks for the best collagen supplements for women:Transparent Labs Collagen Hydrolysate: This collagen powder is our top pick for its overall quality and effectiveness. It is sourced from high-quality ingredients and undergoes rigorous testing to ensure purity. It is also free from additives and unnecessary fillers.Gainful Grass Fed Collagen: If you prefer an unflavored collagen powder, Gainful Grass Fed Collagen is an excellent choice. It is made from grass-fed collagen and is free from artificial flavors and sweeteners.Nutricost Collagen Hydrolysate: For those on a budget, Nutricost Collagen Hydrolysate offers great value for money without compromising on quality. It is sourced from grass-fed collagen and contains no fillers or artificial additives.Sports Research Organic Collagen Peptides: If you prefer an organic collagen powder, Sports Research Organic Collagen Peptides is a top recommendation. It is sourced from organic, grass-fed collagen and is free from GMOs and artificial ingredients.Momentous Collagen Peptides: This collagen powder is specifically formulated to support joint health. It contains type II collagen, which is essential for maintaining healthy cartilage and reducing joint pain.Promix Chocolate Collagen Powder: If you have a sweet tooth, Promix Chocolate Collagen Powder is a delicious option. It combines the benefits of collagen with the indulgence of chocolate flavor.Naked Nutrition Collagen Peptides Protein Powder: This collagen powder is sourced from grass-fed collagen and is free from artificial ingredients and additives. It is an excellent choice for those looking for a natural and pure collagen supplement.Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Advanced Lean: If you're looking to support weight loss along with collagen supplementation, Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Advanced Lean is a great choice. It contains additional ingredients like green tea extract and ashwagandha to support weight management.Bubs Naturals Collagen Peptides: This collagen powder is specifically formulated to support hair health. It contains essential amino acids that promote hair growth, strength, and shine.Gnarly Collagen Pro: Designed for athletes, Gnarly Collagen Pro provides the benefits of collagen along with additional ingredients like BCAAs and electrolytes to support muscle recovery and performance.ConclusionCollagen supplements offer numerous benefits for women, from promoting healthy skin and joints to supporting hair growth and weight management. By incorporating the best collagen supplement into your daily routine, you can enhance your overall health and well-being. Remember to choose a high-quality collagen supplement that aligns with your specific needs and goals. Consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder. It is characterized by high levels of androgens in the body, which can cause irregular periods, infertility, weight gain, and acne. To help manage symptoms, lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet can be beneficial. One popular dietary supplement that has been suggested to help with PCOS is collagen. Collagen is a protein that is found in connective tissues throughout the body, including the skin, bones, and cartilage. It is also a key component of hair and nails. There is some evidence to suggest that collagen supplements may be beneficial for women with PCOS. One study found that women who took collagen supplements experienced a significant reduction in fasting insulin levels, which is important for regulating blood sugar and insulin resistance - a common issue with PCOS. Other studies have suggested that collagen may help improve skin health and reduce joint pain, which can be an additional symptom of PCOS.When it comes to managing PCOS through nutrition, there are several key principles to keep in mind: 1)It is important to focus on nutrient-dense foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. This can include plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein sources, and healthy fats. 2) Aim for balanced meals that include a combination of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. This can help regulate blood sugar levels and promote feelings of fullness and satisfaction. 3) Limit highly processed and sugary foods, as these can exacerbate insulin resistance and other symptoms of PCOS. If you are considering collagen supplements or other dietary changes for PCOS, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure they are safe and appropriate for you.

You deserve to make yourself a priority! Self-care is an essential aspect of our overall well-being and it is critical that we implement aspects of TLC toward ourselves in our daily lives. Taking care of ourselves physically, mentally, and emotionally enables us to be the best versions of ourselves, allowing us to navigate life's challenges with greater ease and resilience. It means taking the time to listen to our bodies and minds, to identify what we need, and to honor those needs.Whether it's through exercise, meditation, therapy, or simply taking a break from the daily grind, self-care helps us to recharge, reset and refocus.By investing in ourselves, we are better equipped to care for others, perform at our best, and achieve our goals.Self-care is not a luxury; it is a necessity.It is a way of showing ourselves the love and kindness we deserve, and it is an investment in our long-term health and happiness. 8 things you can do to improve your morning routine and start your day off on the right foot: Make less decisions, wake up at the same time consistently!Try to set a consistent wake-up time for yourself, even on weekends. This will help regulate your circadian rhythm and make it easier for you to fall asleep at night. Rise with intention: Resist the temptation to hit snooze on your alarm clock. Snoozing can disrupt your natural sleep cycle and leave you feeling groggy. Hydrate: Start your day with a glass of water. This will help rehydrate your body after a night's sleep and kickstart your metabolism. Move your body: Even a short workout can help wake you up and energize you for the day ahead. Consider doing some light stretching, yoga, or a quick walk or jog outside. Remember to take your vitamins and incorporate collagen into your diet. Try Obvi's Super Collagen Protein tofeelimprovements in joint and tissue health and reduced muscle recovery time, andseethe benefits in your skin, hair, and nails. Practice gratitude: Take a few minutes to reflect on the things you're grateful for. This can help shift your mindset to a positive one and set a good tone for the day. Take a moment to reflect and plan: Take some time to plan out your day ahead, including your schedule, tasks, and goals. This will help you stay organized and focused throughout the day and help you feel accomplished at night. Eat a healthy breakfast: Make sure to eat a balanced breakfast that includes protein, fiber, and healthy fats. This will help keep you fulland provide the fuel you need to take on the day By incorporating these habits into your morning routine, you can set yourself up for a productive and fulfilling day.

The human body is designed to respond to the cycle of day and night, this is known as the circadian rhythm. The circadian rhythm is regulated by an internal "clock" located in the brain and influenced by external factors such as light and darkness. The circadian rhythm regulates many bodily functions, including sleep-wake cycles, hormone production, and metabolism. At night, the body releases the hormone melatonin, which helps us fall asleep and stay asleep. And in the morning, the body's natural cortisol levels begin to rise, and that helps us to wake up and feel alert. However, in today's busy world, many factors can disrupt the body's natural circadian rhythm. Factors such as exposure to artificial light from electronic devices, irregular sleep patterns, and shift work can all contribute to disruptions in the body's natural cycle, leading to restless nights of sleep, daytime fatigue, and a general feeling of being "out of sync. Obvi's Hello Goodbye supplement can be a beneficial addition to your daily routine if you struggle with sleep issues and/or daytime fatigue. By supporting the body's natural circadian rhythm, Hello Goodbye can help promote restful sleep at night and increased energy during the day, helping you feel your best all day long. Obvi's Hello Goodbye supplement contains a blend of natural ingredients that have been shownto help support the body's natural circadian rhythm, promoting restful sleep at night and increased energy during the day. Benefits of Obvi's Hello Goodbye Supports the body's natural circadian rhythm Promotes restful sleep at night Increases energy during the day Regulate sleep-wake cycles Includes ashwagandha to reduce stress and promote relaxation Promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety Natural ingredients No artificial additives or preservatives Non-habit forming and safe for daily use Vegan-friendly and gluten-free Key ingredients in Hello Goodbye includeashwagandha, an adaptogen that has been shown to help reduce stress and promote relaxation, andL-theanine, an amino acid that is found in green tea, that has been shown to help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, which can also contribute to better sleep quality.

BMI, or body mass index, is common knowledge at this point. Just about everyone has looked up their BMI, or their height to weight ratio, to see what it means about their health. In over the years, the idea of BMI has been either hailed as the end-all-be-all for a person’s well-being or as an outdated concept that should be thrown out entirely. There are in fact several other factors at play with any individual that has to be taken into account alongside their BMI. Here are some key facts that you should know about BMI and it’s role in health: As was teased in the introduction, a person’s weight to height ratio is not the ultimate factor in health. Any healthcare professional worth their salt will also take into account other sources of data, such as waist circumference, or how many inches/centimeters around someone’s waist is, and body fat percentage, or how much body fat a person has in relation to muscle. Waist circumference and body fat percentage, especially concerning the amount of fat located around the internal organs, have both been shown to be more indicative of negative health outcomes than BMI. There are also often circumstances where these values don’t add up to what is calculated with BMI. For example, an elite athlete could easily have a BMI that would put them in the “overweight” category despite having ideal body fat percentage and waist circumference. Additionally, someone with a perfectly average BMI could have high body fat percentage or waist circumference. These common exceptions have led to an increase in the idea that BMI isn’t a very useful tool at all for determining health, and to an extent studies have shown evidence to back this thought up; BMI values in between the categories of “underweight” (less than 19.9) and “obese” (30 or greater) have similar correlations to health, meaning that there’s actually a large range of values that could therefore be considered “healthy” by this standard. So while the categories of BMI shouldn’t be used exclusively to determine health, there are certain BMI values that have been shown to significantly increase to risk of severe disease or death, with one study finding that values under 21 or over 30 were the mostly likely to suffer from health issues long term, although waist circumference was considered more of an indicator. Generally, though, reviews of studies have found that values past the “obese” and “underweight” categories are most often when people will begin to have negative health outcomes. This means that for most people, a slightly high or slightly low BMI doesn’t really affect their overall health, given that their body fat percentage and waist circumference are within normal ranges. Being a bit overweight or below average isn’t in and of itself a reason to panic. Extremes on either side, however, are a different story. A very high or very low BMI alone can often reliably be used as an indicator of current or eventual poor health. That being said, health is an incredibly complicated topic. There are tons of factors at play, with just a few being genetics, metabolism, and age. Anytime you’re concerned about your health you should see a doctor that assess and treats you for the entire person that you are.

By Charlene Nieves Making a transition to a healthier life is not easy. It can be hard to cut off all unhealthy bad habits overnight and stick to it for the long run. Instead of giving it all up fast and most likely going back to your old habits quickly, try to make the change to a healthier lifestyle a slower and more practical transition. Start by slowly making one or two healthier changes a week and gradually making more healthier decisions when you’re ready. Here are five changes you can make to your daily life that will lead to a healthier lifestyle: Take the Stairs Taking the stairs helps you burn extra calories while you’re on the go! Instead of taking the escalator or elevator, plan a couple of extra minutes and take the stairs. You will get a mini cardio workout and build some muscle while you’re at it. Another plus for taking the stairs is the opportunity to inspire yourself to move more and consider taking up walking or jogging as a hobby in the future. Do Not Eat Late Eating late at night could lead to more weight gain. The weight gain could be due to a variety of reasons such as temptation of overeating or lack of calories burned after a certain time. If you ever find yourself hungry during the nighttime, try drinking water to fill you up. Water has zero calories and makes you feel full. If you’ve tried drinking water and you’re still hungry then try a low calorie snack to satisfy those cravings. Stick to Low Cal Drinks Water is the go to drink if you want to be healthier. It is cheap, has many benefits and is zero calories. The only downside of drinking water is the bland taste. If you ever get bored of drinking water, try low calorie drinks instead. Obvi’s Collagen Protein is only 31 calories per serving and has a range of benefits including increased gut health, healthy hair growth, alleviating joint pain and more. It comes in different flavors such as Fruity Cereal, Cinna Cereal and Cocoa Cereal that can be incorporated into different drinks such as smoothies and shakes. Eat Healthier Along with drinking healthier, try eating healthier as well. Eating a well-balanced diet everyday has long term benefits for your health. Eating fast food may leave you sluggish throughout the day and has a high calorie intake. Start by eating smaller meals throughout the week and not reaching for seconds. Once you get used to eating smaller meals, cut out the high calorie meals you regularly consume that could be doing more harm than good to your health. Sleep More Get your beauty sleep! Giving yourself extra time to sleep might take your mind off of overeating and stressing. It is recommended to sleep about 7 hours every night to have a well-rested sleeping schedule. Sleeping more will also help you feel more alert and productive during the day which may lead to a healthier life and work environment. Sleeping has a whole range of benefits affecting your mind, body and mood that will boost your health.