Collagen 500 Plus: Q+A with our founder Henrietta
Founder, formulator and nutritional therapist Henrietta Norton on the extraordinary ingredients in Collagen 500 Plus and why they change everything.
The collagen marketplace is a crowded one. What compelled you to join in?
"I’m often asked why I haven’t formulated a collagen supplement until now. The truth is, I’ve never been satisfied by the science behind it actually working. It was the discovery of two game-changing ingredients that compelled me to make Collagen 500 Plus.”
Two game-changing ingredients... do tell.
“The first is a breakthrough in producing collagen peptides which radically reduces the molecular weight to 500 Dalton weight. The second, Mesoporosil®, is an advanced form of silica that’s scientifically shown to accelerate collagen synthesis and repair damaged and old collagen.”
“The market is awash with collagen that promises to roll back the years but most have Dalton weights in the thousands. The peptides are simply not as effectively absorbed.”
Dalton weight… explain more, please.
“Daltons measure the molecular weight of a collagen peptide. Research shows that 500 Dalton weight is optimal for effective absorption - so rapid it starts working within minutes. So many collagen supplements have Dalton weights in the thousands, the problem is they simply can’t pass through the gut wall effectively and so the benefits will always be limited. And with a Dalton weight below 500 ratio, molecules start to denigrate.”
And now Mesoporosil®. What makes it unique?
“Mesoporosil® is an incredibly sophisticated form of Silica which is scientifically shown to stimulate and protect collagen synthesis while repairing and renewing old collagen. The science is compelling: 77% say skin complexion is improved and 73% say skin feels firmer.”
OK, so the two go hand in hand to create something special…
“Exactly. There’s an analogy I like to use. Imagine the collagen peptides are the bricks providing the structure, Mesoporosil® is the cement that strengthens and reinforces.”
The dosage is significantly lower than other collagens. Why is that?
“Higher absorption means lower dosage so it’s a case of less is more. You only need 3 grams (3/4 teaspoon) daily compared to the industry standard of 10 or even 20 grams. It’s similar to our discovery of Food-Grown® nutrients 15 years ago: lower doses, when provided in the right form, are often more effective.”
“Higher absorption means lower dosage so you only need 3 grams (3/4 teaspoon) compared to the industry standard of 10 or even 20 grams.”
Why is Vitamin E added?
“Inflammation damages collagen so I added Food-Grown® Vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant to support the protection of our skin cells against this damage.”
Any other noteworthy ingredients?
“Yes, Food-Grown® Vitamin C which supports collagen production and Biotin, which plays an important role in keratin production, supporting healthy hair and nails.”
Does Collagen 500 Plus have benefits beyond the skin?
“Silica is used throughout the body and Mesoporosil® is shown to bolster the strength, durability and elasticity of all connective tissues, which makes it supportive for joint and bone health too.”
Is this product sustainably sourced?
“We went over and above in sourcing a truly responsible collagen supplement. We use the skin and scales of sustainably farmed Tilapia fish which are a byproduct that would otherwise be discarded. Our Friend of the Sea and Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) certifications assure responsible sourcing with minimal impact on oceanic biodiversity.”
And how clean is the formulation?
“The fish are caught and processed within 24 hours so there is no risk of fermentation or degradation, producing an extremely high quality collagen.”
Does it have any taste or smell?
“The collagen powder is unflavoured with no fishy aftertaste and easily dissolves in cold or hot drinks. I add mine to my morning protein shake (I use our Organic Protein & SuperFood Powder) or overnight oats.”
And finally, what benefits have you noticed from taking Collagen 500 Plus?
“I've been taking it for a few weeks now and noticed a decrease in fine lines and wrinkles. My skin feels plumper and more hydrated on my face and my body and my hair and nails feel much stronger but I also feel more ease in my body's flexibility in general.”
We have one life, and one skin in which to live it, so be sure to read How to feed your skin for a healthier complexion and Simple steps to keep your skin protected against the cold.
