Collagen Ultimate+

When the production of free radicals overwhelms the body and causes oxidative stress, cellular damage, inflammation, then premature ageing can occur. Quality, organically grown plant foods are naturally high in antioxidant molecules that interact with free radicals and neutralise them, preventing them from causing damage. There are a variety of antioxidant nutrients your body requires to assist with this process, and they need to be obtained from your diet. A diet rich in antioxidant nutrients can help boost the strength of your immune system and slow down the inflamm-aging process. Examples of these nutrients include vitamins C and E, carotenoids including lycopene, lutein and beta-carotene, and a variety of polyphenol compounds, which are naturally occurring micronutrients that have antioxidant properties (1).

Cut to the chase

Our blend of red based foods will:

• Repair wrinkles and maintain collagen production
• Improve skin texture and roughness
• Reduces hyperpigmentation and age-spots
• Restores oil balance and skin radiance induced by ozone and pollution
• Protect skin and eyes against sun damage

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Lycopene Tomato Fruit Concentrate

Lycopene, is a powerful carotenoid antioxidant (2) nutrient that gives some red fruits and vegetables their colour. We have selected a proprietary clinically trialed tomato powder concentrate standardized to Lycopene, which has been shown to protect the skin’s immune system and prevent damage to the skin caused by sunburn. The studies show that Lycopene can in fact support skin thickness, elasticity and smoothness. Interestingly, Lycopene, taken at higher doses can support cardiovascular health and fertility (3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13).

Goji berry fruit powder

Lycium barbarum L. is a small red berry known as Wolfberry or Goji berry and these tiny berries are packed full of carotenoids Lutein and Zeaxanthin. A human supplementation trial shows that lutein and zeaxanthin in whole wolfberries is bioavailable, and that intake of a modest daily amount markedly increases fasting plasma levels of these carotenoids. Human studies show Lutein decreases the intensity of erythema (sunburn) induced by UV-light exposure compared to placebo, thus increasing sunburn threshold (14). Given their ability to act as potent antioxidants and light filters, lutein and zeaxanthin have been proposed to confer protection against oxidative damage in the skin. Following exposure to UV irradiation, the generation of free radicals and the resulting photo-oxidative damage are manifested as sunburn, which cumulatively can lead to aging of the skin and development of photodermatoses (15). Increased intake of foods containing the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin filter blue light and help protect skin and eyes from environmental stressors. These carotenoids may be able to block the formation of melanin pathways, decrease cytokines, and increase antioxidants. The antioxidant properties of lutein and zeaxanthin, along with their ability to absorb blue light, are believed to protect the retina from photo-oxidative damage, reduce light scatter within the eye, and thus maintain visual acuity (16).

Red Raspberry fruit

Red raspberries and their predominant polyphenols have been studied in a variety of models for their potential direct and indirect effects on chronic disease mechanisms. The growing literature suggests that red raspberry fruit, including various extracts and individual components, have anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and metabolic-stabilizing activity (17,18,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27).

Beetroot

Beets contain phytonutrients called betalains, which give beets their red colour, have been studied for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and for detoxification support (28).

Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin is a naturally occurring pigment that gives the reddish pink colour to marine organisms. Intrametica’s Astaxanthin is derived from a natural and sustainably sourced microalgae called Haematococcus pluvialis. The manufacturing process of Astaxanthin requires strict standards to preserve quality and therefore efficacy across its shelf life. We looked into the stability data on all materials available on the market and while we had to invest more a for this ingredient, we know its quality and efficacy is in line with our strict values.

Clinical studies show that astaxanthin can improve dermal wrinkles caused by the degeneration of elastic fibers and the collagen network, as well as epidermal fine lines caused by dryness of the corneum layer. The effects were particularly strong in the corner of the eyes (crows feet), on the cheeks, and the forehead. Astaxanthin may also inhibit the gene over-expression of collagen-digesting enzymes and protect the fibroblast synthesis of collagen from oxidative stress. Therefore, astaxanthin supplementation can reduce premature sagging and wrinkling caused by excessing exposure to UVA radiation. The astaxanthin quenching potency for singlet oxygen is much greater than that of other antioxidants, and it shows no pro-oxidant activity, even after 24 hours of continuous UVA exposure (29,30,31,32,33).

Plant-based orange foods provide a source of beta-carotene, an orange pigment, and other carotenoids, which have potent antioxidant activity. Antioxidants can neutralie free radicals before they cause damage to cells in your body, including cells that make up the tissues of the organs in your reproductive system. Carotenoid compounds are fat-soluble antioxidants.

Cut to the chase

Our blend of orange based foods will:

• Increase your skins luminosity and glow
• Reduce Imperfections such as sunspots caused from sun damage
• Increase skin firmness and elasticity
• Reduce skin redness and create a more even skin tone

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Kakadu Plum

It’s a tough call but Kakadu Plum, out of all our wonderful fruits in this formulation, is still the best when it comes to delivering on vitamin C. We have sourced and prepared our certified organic Kakadu Plum exclusively in Australia. The phenolic ellagic acid (EA) is receiving increasing attention for its nutritional and pharmacological potential as an antioxidant and antimicrobial agent. The Australian native Kakadu Plum (Terminalia ferdinandiana) fruit is an abundant source of this phytochemical. There are two structural proteins that help to keep our skin plump and prevent sagging. These are known as collagen and elastin. As we age, our collagen and elastin levels naturally decrease, which can lead to the first signs of ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin C helps to promote the formation of these two proteins, helping to keep your skin plump and youthful (34).

Camu Camu

Camu Camu is a good source of bioactive compounds such as vitamin C, phenolic compounds and carotenoids and also a source of potassium, iron, calcium, phosphorous and amino acids such as serine, valine and leucine. These compounds are all free radical scavengers that work to reduce oxidative stress in the body. The carotenoid content of Camu Camu include lutein, b-carotene and zeaxanthin which all exhibit antioxidant activity. Camu Camu exerts natural anti-inflammatory actions as it works to balance the immune response and increase the antioxidant status to via the increased vitamin C, which works to mediate the inflammatory process (35,36).

Acerola Cherry

Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC.) is a fruit that is found throughout Central America and within the northern part of South America. Acerola fruit has high concentrations of vitamin C, and it is considered to be one of the best natural sources of this important vitamin (37). The fruit and skin are packed full of numerous functional phytochemicals, such as carotenoids and polyphenols (38,39). These are important antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds necessary for healthy collagen production. Acerola juice has been shown to be effective in suppressing UVB-induced skin pigmentation, by inhibiting melanogenesis-related genes. If you are vitamin C deficient you will not be able to metabolise collagen properly and microheamoraging can occur therefore vitamin C is very important together with flavonoids to support healthy microcirculation in the skin.

Carrot

Carrot is a significant source of phytonutrients including phenolics, polyacetylenes and carotenoids. Of these carotenoids, β-carotene is classified as a functional ingredient with significant health promoting properties. Human studies have shown β-Carotene to be photo-protective, that is, it protects the skin from sun damage and sunburn and helps prevent premature ageing, as it inhibits free radical and singlet oxygen-induced lipid peroxidation in liposomes in the skin and indeed, the entire body. Further, skin concentrations can be increased with supplementation and are lower in persons with oxidative stress (e.g., smokers). Similarly, plasma and skin carotenoids decrease with UV exposure. This relationship between carotenoid intake and skin wrinkling may be due to an ability to prevent extracellular matrix breakdown. Clinical trials in humans show that supplementing up to 30 mg a day of beta-carotene demonstrated benefits for the prevention and repair of photo-ageing (40,41).

Cantaloupe Melon Concentrate

A non-GMO proprietary variety of melon, naturally rich in bioactive SuperOxide Dismutase (SOD) was tested in an open-label clinical study. The researchers enrolled 35 women, aged 40-70, with facial dull complexion. Subjects were supplemented orally with a daily dosage of 150 mg of superoxide dismutase-rich melon concentrate, grape seed extract rich in monomers of flavanols, vitamin C, and zinc for 8 weeks. Improvements in all the parameters involved in skin radiance tested showed 82% of women were satisfied by the efficacy of our Cantaloupe Melon Concentrate on skin radiance, and 2 women out of 3 feel looking better after the supplementation (42,43,44). The same melon extract was clinically trialled in humans showing positive effects for reducing stress and alleviating physical and mental fatigue (45,46).

Grapefruit

Grapefruit is rich in phenolic compounds, among which gallic acid (GA) is the most abundant, and it possesses a variety of biological activities including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The combination of our proprietary grapefruit and rosemary leaf blend has been used to reduce skin damage caused by sunburn. In a clinical trial by Nobile et. Al., 2016 (47), subjects were randomised into either 100mg or 250mg or placebo with skin redness. Wrinkle depth and skin elasticity were measured in the 90 female participants. The results showed that treatment groups had a significant decrease in skin redness compared to placebo at 24, 48, and 72 hours after initial UVB exposure. No differences were found between the 100 and 250 mg extracts doses, indicating a plateau effect starting from 100 mg extracts dose. Some of the positive effects were noted in as short as 2 weeks of product consumption (48).

Cut to the chase

Our green based foods will keep your skin clear and reduce acne.

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Rosemary Leaves

Most pharmacological effects of rosemary are the consequence of high antioxidant (49) activity of its main chemical constituents, which include carnosol, carnosic acid, ursolic acid, rosmarinic acid, and caffeic acid. The potent antioxidant properties of rosemary have been mainly attributed to its major diterpenes, carnosol and carnosic acid, as well as to the essential oil components. While rosemary is used widely as a natural antioxidant, it also exerts premier liver supportive activity. Carnosol possesses high electrophilic activity and has been reported to activate Nrf2, phase II detoxifying enzyme genes, and antioxidant enzymes induction, defense mechanisms for the removal of xenobiotics and other toxicants of internal and external origin by the liver (50). In preliminary animal cell line studies, rosemary leaf extract significantly inhibited the growth and replication of Propionibacterium acnes – a key pathogen involved in the progression of acne inflammation – and associated inflammatory response (51). Rosemary, more recently has been investigated for its neuroprotective and memory enhancing abilities.

Cut to the chase:

Improved memory will make you less likely to forget your supplement

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Blueberry

Blueberries are potent in flavonoids and proanthocyanidins and a study conducted of men and women were provided with 38g dehydrated blueberry powder equivalent to 250g of blueberries v’s placebo powders daily for 6 weeks. Treatment group showed increased NK cell counts, and reduction in diastolic and systolic pressures and augmentation index.

Anthocyanins have also been associated with increased neuronal signaling and improved glucose disposal which is associated with improved memory and the reduction in neurodegeneration. A study of older adults (n=9) over 12 weeks observed improved paired associate learning, word list recall and reduced depressive symptoms and most importantly lowered glucose levels.

Antioxidant status was increased post-consumption of 100g freeze-dried wild blueberry powder (n=8). This increased antioxidant status is associated with a reduced risk of many chronic degenerative diseases. Polyphenols are transported across the blood brain barrier endothelium, which provides improved cellular response to oxidative stress, excitoxicity and inflammation and exert neruoprotective effects, with potential for alleviating neurodegenerative disease (52,53,54,55).

Cut to the chase:

Our purple based foods will:

• Reduce wrinkles
• Keep skin hydrated and fresh
• Increase skin elasticity

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Maqui Berry

Maqui berry (Aristotelia chilensis) is an intensely purple berry that grows wild throughout parts of southern Chile. These berries are very rich in anthocyanins, which are purple pigments with very high antioxidant activity and packed full of vitamin C. One of the antioxidants found in maqui berries is vitamin C, which is essential for supporting the skin’s collagen matrix. Numerous studies – including one published in the October 2007 edition of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition – demonstrate that a regular vitamin C intake results in fewer wrinkles and dryness, whereas a deficiency can lead to premature aging and numerous skin conditions (56).

Blackberry

Blackberries are high in anthocyanins that exert multiple protective effects such as antioxidant, anti-angiogenic and anti-aging in cells (57).

Grapeseed

Grapeseeds have potent free radical scavenging capacities and is a potent antioxidant due to its high proanthocyanidin extracts, which exerted their effect by increasing nitric oxide (NO) production, which improves endothelial function. It was also shown to ameliorated oxidative stress by improving super oxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities and reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) function (58). The Flavanols from Grapeseeds, and in particular monomers, inhibit the degradation of collagen and elastin by fixation on fibers, which reduce the action of collagenase and elastase (59,60). Moreover, flavanols are known to stimulate the synthesis of amino acids precursors of collagen and elastin and have been shown in-vivo to work synergistically with vitamin C by improving its bioavailabity. Grapeseeds may also exert a protective effect on hormone production (61).

Cut to the chase:

Our blend of white based foods will:

• Increase your skin’s elastin giving a youthful appearance
• Reduce wrinkles
• Give you a radiant and more glowing appearance
• Improves gut health leading to healthy skin

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Fish Sourced Bioactive Collagen Peptides stimulate the skin to produce more collagen which causes changes in the skin (Dermis layer) providing a more plump appearance. Collagen, type of protein found in connective tissue, derives its name from the Latin meaning, “glue”, and is what holds our bodies together. 65% of your body is collagen. Type 1 collagen is the most abundant collagen in the body and comprises the skin, tendons, ligaments, bone, teeth and arteries. Type 2 collagen is found in the joints. Type 3 collagen comprises the connective tissue surrounding the organs, it is found in lymph, and in bone marrow. Type 4 collagen is found in the lungs, the tissue around heart, intestines, while Type 5 collagen makes up the hair and cell surfaces.

Fish collagen supplementation in humans is well supported by randomised human clinical trials for delaying the signs of skin aging. The structure and function of the skin are reliant on essential nutrients and the hydrating effects of collagen as Proksche et. al. (2014) 62, have shown through supplementation whereby delayed skin aging and improved skin integrity can be achieved with the use of supplemental collagen peptides. Oral supplementation of collagen hydrolysate composed of specific collagen peptides (2.5 g/d or 5.0 g/d for 8 weeks) increased skin elasticity in middle-aged women after 4 weeks of supplementation, and a skin moisturising effect was observed in women over 50 years of age. The supplement had a long-lasting effect, especially in women over 50 years of age. Prior studies have demonstrated that collagen hydrolysate is absorbed in the digestive tract, appears in human blood partly in a small peptide form, and is deposited in the skin for up to 96 hrs.

Studies also showed a significant reduction in eye wrinkle volume after 8 weeks of taking 2.5g of bioactive collagen peptides. The maximum reduction in eye wrinkle volume of 50% was achieved after the 8 weeks.

Preclinical studies have shown that collagen peptides have stimulatory effects on type 1 collagen and ECM molecules in fibroblasts – this increases the skins rejuvenation properties – reducing the aging appearance of skin. This includes;

• Increase in elastin content of skin after 8 week supplementation with bioactive collagen peptides.
• Increase in Fibrillin content after 8 week supplementation with bioactive collagen peptides.

Bioactive collagen peptide studies showed that women (n=105) noticed a reduction in the appearance of cellulite, improved skin tone after 6 month supplementation of 2.5g daily.

Skin elasticity, skin moisture, trans-epidermal water loss and skin roughness were measured for 8 weeks (n=65 women 35-55 years old) after supplementation of 2.5g or 5g of Collagen peptides. Results were seen after 4 weeks of treatment, with women having 30% increase in skin elasticity with more significant results seen in women over 50 years old.

Collagen synthesis naturally varies and declines during different life stages added with the lifestyle choices (smoking, stress, aging, nutritional deficiencies, autoimmune diseases) skin naturally ages. The collagen fibers become thicker and much shorter, resulting in a loss of collagen, which alters the ratio of collagen and as a result the dermis collagen and elastin declines which causes changes to the structure and elasticity of the skin. Hydrolysed collagen peptides when administered orally are distributed around the body in particular the dermis of the skin, where they can remain for up to 14 days to firstly provide the building blocks for collagen and elastin fibers and formation and secondly, to stimulate the production of new collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid.

A random controlled trial of 40 women (35-65 years) where each patient was given 7.5g or 8.5g of active product (600mg calcium mineral, 3500mg activated collagen, 250mg activated complex polysaccharides, 600mg glucosamine and 200mg vitamin C) for 4 weeks. The results indicated a significant difference in periorbital wrinkling and aging and overall facial appearance (63,64,65,66,67,68,69,70,71,72).

Collagen peptides are a versatile source of protein and an important element of healthy nutrition. Their nutritional and physiological properties promote the health of bones and joints, and contribute to beautiful skin.

Collagen consists of three polypeptide chains. These α-chains are wrapped around each other to form triple-helical macromolecules: a unique structure, size and amino acid sequence. In collagenous sequences, glycine (Gly) is present as every third residue. This enables the formation of the three chains into a triple-helical structure. Thus, the common feature for all collagens is a sequence that can be expressed as (Gly-X-Y)*n, where X and Y are frequently represented by proline (Pro) and hydroxyproline (Hyp), respectively. This sequence is necessary for the collagen to assemble the fibrils that subsequently form fibers, providing unmatched structural integrity for the extracellular matrix of conjunctive tissues (73,74,75).

The raw material for collagen peptides – as for gelatin – is collagen protein. Collagen peptides, however, are relatively small molecules with a molecular weight of less than 10,000 g/mol. The peptides comprise at least two and at most 100 amino acids. They are characterized by excellent cold-water solubility and, even in highly concentrated solutions, they do not form a gel.

Marine bioactive proteins and peptides, depending on their structures and amino acid sequences, exhibit a wide range of biological activities including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, immunomodulatory, antihypertensive, anticoagulant, and anti-diabetic effects (76,77,78,79,80).

According to The Journal of Nutrition, Baobab has the highest antioxidant content of any fruit. Baobab powder has twice the antioxidants gram per gram of goji berries and more than blueberries and pomegranates combined. Baobab is packed with antioxidants and vitamin C which supports collagen formation – helping to give you radiant, glowing skin as well as preventing wrinkles. Also found in Australia and Madagascar, Africa’s “Tree of Life” contains almost 50% fibre (two thirds soluble and one third insoluble, making it a powerful prebiotic). Plant food prebiotics powerfully influence healthy microflora in the digestive system which in turn supports a healthy complexion. As a source of calcium, magnesium and potassium, it’s no wonder this is Africa’s favourite superfruit (81,82,83,84).

The anti-inflammatory properties of zinc have been the reasons for its use in many common inflammatory dermatoses like acne, rosacea, eczemas, and ulcers or wounds of varied etiology (85). Zinc has been used extensively both topically and systemically for the management of acne vulgaris (86) and is also another emerging alternate acne treatment to reduce possible adverse effects of antibiotics and in view of Propionibacterium acnes strains developing resistance to conventional antibiotics (87). The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of zinc have been postulated to be useful in the management of acne rosacea, and for the management of other follicular occlusion disorders like hidradenitis suppurativa, acne conglobata, and folliculitis decalvans as well (88,89,90,91,92,93).

Zinc has a protective potential against many chronic conditions associated with oxidative stress through its role in boosting the induction of transcription factors (including (ARE)-Nrf2 signaling – a major target in skin ageing food focus!) and a subsequent up-regulation of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, induction of metallothionein synthesis, its structural role in copper-zinc-superoxide dismutase (Cu,Zn-SOD), and, finally, its direct antioxidant activity (94).

Zinc is an essential trace mineral. It’s important for growth and development, thyroid function, liver function, the immune system, reproductive system, and the nervous system. Zinc also protects the liver against damage from alcohol, free radicals, malnutrition, all kinds of stress, and over-exercise/excess sweating. Zinc is a critical co-factor for thyroid hormone production and conversion, as well. It helps to produce thyroid stimulating hormone – TSH – and is a necessary component for the body’s ability to convert T4 hormone into T3 hormone, which is what helps your cells to produce ATP energy, raise basal body temperature, keep your weight at its ideal place, burn calories, and lose weight if you need to. Zinc is at the center of your entire metabolic process. As it happens, so is copper, but your body requires more zinc than it does copper. The two minerals need to be kept in balance, along with manganese.

Zinc may decrease the absorption and efficacy of some medications. If taking tetracycline or quinolone antibiotics separate doses by at least two hours. Contains Grapefruit extract which affects P450 enzymes and may increase the metabolism and clearance of certain pharmaceutical medications.