By Dr. Chad Walding, DPT, NativePath Co-Founder

Because many people are living longer these days, one of the biggest responsibilities of modern medicine is to provide care and treatment for those diseases that become more common with increasing age. 

One of those being bone degeneration, a thinning and weakening of the bones, which means they break more easily.

In many cases, it is first revealed by a sudden fracture — and by the time that happens, it is too late to go back and prevent this dreadful incident, which can lead to many complications. 

The consequences of bone fractures are serious, including disability, loss of independence, immobilizing surgeries and death. After a hip fracture, 40% of patients cannot walk independently and 10–20% require permanent nursing home care*.

According to an article published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, each year Americans suffer from 1.5 million bone fractures, resulting in more than 432,000 hospital admissions, almost 2.5 million medical office visits, and about 180,000 nursing home admissions. 

Medicare currently pays for approximately 80% of these fractures, with hip fractures accounting for 72% of the total cost. And because people are living longer (and are therefore more likely to experience bone degeneration), the cost of bone healthcare is expected to rise to $25.3 billion by 2025.

While these projections are high, new evidence suggests that the risks associated with many pharmacological bone density treatments may be even higher. 

Reports of side effects with commonly prescribed bone density drugs have led to a growing number of senior patients at risk of fractures refusing treatment. 

In fact, use of the most commonly prescribed drugs fell by 50% from 2008 to 2012 in the United States, according to a research paper published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research*, and physicians say that this trend is continuing*.

“In many cases, this new evidence suggests that many common bone density drugs can put the bone health of seniors in even worse condition than before they began the treatment,” says Dr. Chad Walding.

So why exactly are so many seniors weary of bone density drugs? Dr. Walding says there’s no simple explanation but there are 3 glaring issues contributing to the apprehension surrounding these treatments.

“There is a misconception that drugs heal the body. They don’t. They only temporarily mask symptoms — and, not always as effective as they should...” says Dr. Walding.  

What’s more alarming, they artificially mimic healing by counteracting the body’s processes. 

Bone density drugs work by stopping bone remodeling, which is the body’s naturally-balanced process for renewing bone. Throughout our entire lifespan this remodeling process goes on continually, with crucial vitamins, minerals, collagen protein, and various other substances all coming into play. 

Within the body osteoclasts (bone-removing cells) and osteoblasts (bone-building cells) work together to tear down and replenish your skeleton. As we age, our bone cells wear out, and they need to be removed so new cells can take their place. Osteoclasts do this, and then osteoblasts put new bone cells in their place. Thus, your bones are always being rejuvenated, and they are able to stay strong and flexible.

Controversially, many bone density drugs stop the entire process. That means old bone cells aren’t being shed. As a result, the bones become brittle since they’re composed almost entirely of worn-out cells. 

Yes, the bone may appear denser from taking the drugs, but the bone’s tensile strength is greatly compromised, ironically, making bones more prone to fracture. This is what happens when synthetic chemicals work against the body.

Which lead us to reason number two:

All bone density drugs can induce life-changing side effects — many of which are irreversible. Let’s take a look at some of the most significant ones.

• Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is a difficult-to-treat and potentially disfiguring side effect of bisphosphonates. This condition was first noted back when match factory workers, who handled white phosphorous daily, developed symptoms of ONJ, called “phossy jaw” back then: jaw pain, infection, abscesses, and rotting jaw bone. Bisphosphonates, being phosphorous-based, have a similar effect. As a result, The Medical Establishment issued warnings about ONJ on all bisphosphonates which still happen to be the most common treatment for bone density.

• Atrial fibrillation (fast, irregular heartbeat) is associated with bisphosphonates, a side effect confirmed by recent research. Just this month, scientists at the Maimonides Medical Center in New York published a meta-analysis showing that bisphosphonate use increases the risk of serious atrial fibrillation by 40%*. “Evidence from RCTs and observational studies suggests a significantly increased risk of AF requiring hospitalization,” researchers conclude.

• Esophageal damage is greatly increased with the use of bisphosphonates, especially Fosamax. According to an analysis of the FDA’s database (the adverse event reporting system, or AERS), nearly 75% of bisphosphonate-caused esophageal damage were directly attributed to Fosamax use*.

Perhaps the most unfortunate and backwards reality of these drugs is that they can actually increase the risk of the main concern patients are trying to avoid: bone fractures. 

The main reason why senior patients take drugs for low bone density is to decrease their chance of fractures. 

Ironically, the most shocking side effect of bone density drugs is that they can result in increased fracture risk*. 

“While bisphosphonates have been shown in studies to increase bone density, the density (or new mass) is of far lesser quality — making the bone highly prone to fracture,” says Dr. Walding.

For example, atypical femoral fractures are the most common break associated with bone density drugs, especially bisphosphonates. These are referred to as “atypical femoral fractures” because they are just that – not typical.

The femur is the strongest bone in the body. Under normal conditions, it doesn’t simply break. 

But when a brittle bone has been made synthetically “dense” by drugs, it can break near the head of the femur when you’re doing non-strenuous, everyday activities.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that the drug has been pulled from the market, or won’t be prescribed anymore. 

Ultimately it is up to the patient to educate themselves on the risks associated with bone density drugs to enable better, more informed decision making to take place when it comes to restoring and maintaining bone health. 

“While the risks of side-effects are alarming, increased awareness and vigilance is needed for patients receiving any bone density drug,” says Dr. Walding.

For those taking or considering using bone density drugs, the doctor should be able to help provide all the relevant information regarding the major side effects of any treatment he or she recommends, including such risk factors as those mentioned in this report. 

From there, you should be an active participant in your own care. Weigh the risks and benefits in your own mind — and with your doctor — before deciding which treatments (pharmacological or non-pharmacological) are right for you.  

“The bottom line is that we need to be able to make more informed decisions about our bone health. To do that, we need to understand that the true cause of bone loss isn’t strictly age-related, it’s more so related to an imbalance in the body’s chemistry,” says Dr. Walding.

Therefore, achieving biochemical balance is the core of the bone loss solution. And no drug can do that – only the patient, by taking bone health into their hands and with the necessary knowledge, can replenish their bones with the ideal levels of vitamins, minerals and amino acids that bones require to thrive.

While statistics clearly show a correlation between older age and increased risk of bone loss, this decrease in bone mass isn't necessarily a function of old age - it’s a function of lacking the nutritional “building blocks” of healthy bones. 

“Nutrition (what we eat and what we don’t eat) is perhaps the biggest underlying factor in whether our bones stay healthy as we age beyond our 60’s,” says Dr. Walding.

This loss of bone mass is due to the fact that with each passing year our bones lose calcium, vital amino acids and other minerals required to provide strength and density to our skeletal system. 

Not only this, but research shows us that certain dietary habits can exacerbate the loss of bone mass, leading to weaker, more brittle bones putting individuals over 60 to an even higher risk rate of falls and fractures.

After consulting with Dr.Chad Walding, Doctor of Physical Therapy and leading Senior Nutrition Expert, we’ve compiled a list of the most bad-to-the-bone foods to avoid for maintaining bone health – and which key nutrients seniors should consume more of to rebuild bones while protecting against fractures and falls.

Here’s a look at a few of the most common dietary culprits that can damage our bones.

Soft drinks (yes, even diet soda) are packed with phosphoric acid, which causes an increase in the blood's acidity levels. 

As a result, the body pulls calcium out of our bones in order to bring the acidity levels back to normal.

“When calcium intake is low, consuming excessive amounts of phosphoric acid will promote rapid calcium loss from the body,” Dr. Walding explains.

To make matters worse, nearly all soft drinks lack calcium. Couple this with the fact that they also increase calcium excretion in our urine and it’s easy to see how these dangerous drinks act as a double whammy for bone health, putting seniors at serious risk for developing dilapidating bone conditions. 

While sodium plays an important role in our overall health, over consuming table salt or eating excessive amounts of high-sodium foods can pose a great obstacle to a sturdy skeleton. 

Research has found that postmenopausal women with a high-salt diet lose more bone minerals than other women of the same age.

Studies show that regular table salt, not simply sodium, causes calcium loss, weakening bones with time. That’s important because Americans get about 90% of our sodium through salt.

We also get about twice as much sodium as we should. The 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans advise limiting sodium to 2,300 milligrams a day – equal to a teaspoon of salt. But most Americans get at least 4,000 milligrams a day.

A study published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition in December 2016 found that participants who had a habit of eating salty foods were more prone to osteoporosis, a condition that causes bone-thinning.* A study published in the journal Osteoporosis International in January 2017 found this association also for postmenopausal women.*

"Generally speaking, for every 2,300 milligrams of sodium we take in, about 40 milligrams of calcium is lost in the urine – which is a big problem for seniors," says Dr. Walding.

A good starting point is to replace regular table salt with pink Himalayan salt instead. 

Both table salt and pink Himalayan salt consist mostly of sodium chloride, but pink Himalayan salt has up to 84 other minerals and trace elements - including potent doses of common minerals like potassium and calcium which help maintain the vital mineral balance needed for healthy bones*.

For maximum bone health, Dr. Walding recommends moderating salt intake. “Try to keep it below 2,300 milligrams a day and swap table salt for pink Himalayan sea salt,” he says.

When ingested excessively, caffeine can begin leaching calcium from bones, sapping their strength.

Over-consuming caffeine (from soda or coffee or other caffeinated drinks) is a particular problem when a woman doesn’t get enough calcium each day to begin with.

"On average, we can lose up to 6 milligrams of calcium for every 100 milligrams of caffeine we consume," says Dr. Walding.

That's not as much of a loss as salt, but for coffee lovers who are unwilling to budge on their java intake – it's worrisome, nonetheless. 

For reference, a 16-ounce cup of coffee can provide 320 milligrams which exceeds the daily recommended amount when it comes to supporting strong, healthy bones.

The good news is that limiting caffeine intake to 300 milligrams a day while consuming the appropriate amount of bone-rebuilding nutrients can help offset the losses caused by excessive caffeine intake.

Coffee addicts may also find it helpful to gradually reduce their caffeine intake by drinking half regular and half-decaf coffee. 

Hydrogenated oils are man-made fats produced by contaminating vegetable oils with hydrogen gas under super-high pressure – which creates synthetic artery-blocking trans fats. 

This man-made form of trans fat is not to be confused with the naturally occurring trans fats found within animal products and coconut oil – Naturally occurring trans fats are proven to support our health whereas the synthetic version can do serious damage. 

This is because the synthetic processing used to create hydrogenated oil destroys any naturally-occurring vitamin K in the vegetable oils. And since vitamin K is essential for strong bones, experts recommend forgoing any foods that contain non-natural trans fats completely (think fast food, frozen food, pastries, and most store-bought coffee creamers). 

To ensure your foods aren't contaminated by these foul fats, check the ingredient list (even if the label reads trans-fat-free) for any "hydrogenated oils" or "partially hydrogenated oils." Those phrases are synonyms for synthetic trans fats and are likely to be snuck into your food.

Like beans, wheat bran contains high levels of phytates which can prevent the body from absorbing calcium. However, unlike beans, 100% wheat bran is the only food that appears to reduce the absorption of calcium in other foods eaten at the same time. 

For example, when consuming 100% wheat bran cereal with fortified milk, the body's ability to absorb calcium from the milk is drastically reduced. 

Dr. Walding recommends cereal and bread lovers to switch from wheat bran products to using sprouted grain products instead like those offered by the Ezekiel brand. The sprouting process breaks down phytates, which frees up nutrients like magnesium, B vitamins as well as nutrients from companion foods (like the calcium from fortified milk) easier to absorb.

Plus, the sprouting process also breaks down some of the starch found in whole wheat bran grains, which makes sprouted grain products a little easier to digest. Making sprouted grain products the preferred alternative not just for bones, but for overall health and wellbeing. 

“An adult human possesses 206 bones made up of calcium, collagen protein, and other minerals. Unfortunately, poor bone health has become somewhat of an epidemic – leading to horrific accidents, fractures and falls causing many of my senior patients to lose their independence earlier in life,” says Dr. Walding.

Fortunately, there’s something seniors can do to improve their bone health and reduce their risk of injury and fractures. 

Since our bones are made up of many of the same organic minerals and amino acids that are found naturally in many foods, incorporating more bone-rebuilding nutrients into our diet can have a dramatic impact on supporting stronger bones.

While avoiding bone-damaging foods will certainly help support efforts to keep bones healthy, there is one stand-out dietary habit that researchers believe yields the greatest impact on our ability to rebuild and strengthen bone tissue – and that is collagen protein. 

Collagen is one of the most plentiful proteins in mammals. It is responsible for several biological functions, one of which is to provide structural support in connective tissues like muscles, joints, skin, and bones.

In fact, approximately 90% of the bone matrix is comprised of collagen protein*.

Clinical evidence suggests that adding collagen into one’s diet may help prevent the deterioration of bone density and strength.

For example, one small study had women take either calcium or calcium and collagen supplements for 1 year. The researchers found that the women taking the calcium and the collagen had lower levels of a protein responsible for breaking down bones in their blood*.

Therefore, in order to repair bones and prevent bone loss, a steady stream of collagen protein will do the body wonders. 

"Adequate calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D intake help to cast a protective net around bones, but collagen protein is the primary substance that makes up our bone’s solid material, providing the bone density needed to maintain a stronger skeletal structure within the body," Dr. Walding says.

Although most Americans get plenty of protein, many seniors fail to get enough collagen (the specific protein bones are primarily made of) on a daily basis and it's hurting their bones.

In fact, researchers have reported that low intake of protein decreases calcium absorption and may also affect rates of bone formation and breakdown.*

What’s worse is that during our late 20’s, the body’s natural ability to produce adequate levels of collagen begins to wane by about 1-2% each passing year.

100%

80%

Amount of Collagen 

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Coupling this with the fact that most seniors aren’t getting enough collagen in their diet as it is, it’s obvious why bone loss, fractures and falls are so high among the aging population.

Bottom line: Seniors are losing collagen faster than they can replace it, putting them at a severe collagen deficit which increases their risk of injury as the years go by with low collagen levels left unaddressed.

“The first step to restoring bone density and preventing against injuries and fractures is to restore our collagen deficit - rebuilding collagen levels back to optimal ranges is the key to strong healthy bones at any age,” says Dr. Walding.

Our bones are made mostly of collagen, which gives them structure and helps keep them strong.

As collagen levels deteriorate with age, bone mass does too, leading to crippling mobility concerns including severely low bone density and higher risks of bone fractures.

Studies have shown that taking collagen supplements may have certain effects in the body that help inhibit the bone breakdown.

In one study that looked at bone health in 103 postmenopausal women, 66 women were given 5 grams of collagen daily for 12 months. The women who took the collagen had an increase of up to 7% in their bone mineral density (BMD), compared to women who did not consume collagen.*

Bone Mass & Age

According to this study, collagen supplementation was associated with a favorable shift in bone markers, indicating increased bone formation and reduced bone degradation.

SUMMARY: For stronger, healthier bones, research shows that at least 12 months of daily collagen supplementation (5 grams/day) is required. 

Collagen helps maintain the integrity of your connective tissues such as our joints, muscles, and cartilage, which is the rubber-like tissue that protects your joints.

As the body’s collagen levels decrease with age, the risk of developing degenerative joint disorders increases.

Some studies have shown that taking a collagen supplement may help improve symptoms of joint disorders and reduce joint pain overall.

In one study, 73 participants who consumed 10 grams of collagen daily for 24 weeks experienced a significant decrease in joint pain while walking and at rest compared to a group that did not take it.*

SUMMARY: For improved joint health and relief from joint-related pain, research shows that at least 24 weeks of daily collagen supplementation (10 grams/day) is required. 

Between 1–10% of muscle tissue is composed of collagen. This means that collagen protein is vital for keeping our muscles strong and functioning properly as we age.

Studies suggest that collagen supplements help boost muscle mass in people with sarcopenia, the loss of muscle mass that happens with age.*

In one study, 27 participants took 15 grams of collagen for 12 weeks. Compared to participants who did not take collagen, they gained significantly more muscle mass and strength.* This research shows great promise for helping older individuals maintain their independence as they age.

SUMMARY: Research shows that 12 weeks of daily collagen supplementation (15 grams/day) yielded improvements in muscle mass and strength. 

Collagen plays a role in strengthening skin, plus may benefit elasticity and hydration. With age, the body produces less collagen, leading to dry skin and the formation of wrinkles.

However, several studies have shown that collagen supplements may help slow the aging of your skin by reducing wrinkles and dryness.

Good Skin

Bad Skin

One study found that women who consumed a collagen supplement daily for 12 weeks experienced increased skin hydration and a significant reduction in wrinkle depth compared to a control group.* 

SUMMARY: While modest skin benefits can be seen in 8 weeks, for major improvements in skin health including reduction of deep wrinkles, research shows that at least 12 weeks of consistent daily collagen supplementation (5 grams/day) is required.

Collagen makes up 70% of your dermis, the middle layer of your skin that contains the root of each individual hair. Therefore, providing the body with collagen may help maintain a healthy dermis and prevent hair thinning.

In an eight-week study, 69 women aged 35–55 found that taking a daily collagen supplement significantly improved dermis elasticity and hydration compared to a placebo, translating to enhanced overall skin & hair health.*

SUMMARY: When it comes to improving hair health, research shows that at least 8 weeks of consistent daily collagen supplementation (5 grams/day) is required for results. 

Collagen provides structure to your arteries, the blood vessels that carry blood from your heart to the rest of your body. Without enough collagen, arteries may become weak and fragile.

In one study, 31 healthy adults took 16 grams of collagen daily for six months. By the end, they had experienced a significant reduction in measures of artery stiffness compared to before they started taking the supplement.*

SUMMARY: According to research, 6 months of daily collagen supplementation (16 grams/day) was shown to elicit positive results for promoting heart health.

Based on clinical evidence, experiencing the many benefits of collagen may require anywhere from 8 weeks to 12 months of daily use to be fully realized. 

Taking a scoop here and a scoop there won’t cut it when it comes to seeing results with collagen; consistent, daily use is necessary. 

While it’s very possible to experience positive results as early as the first few weeks of consistent supplementation, and many of Dr. Walding’s patients do, individuals aged 60+ may require longer durations of daily collagen use to experience dramatic results.

Generally, a daily collagen dose of 5-10 grams is recommended but for older individuals, their collagen levels are already at a deficit - putting them severely below normal healthy ranges. 

This means doubling up the dose may be the best approach for older individuals to reap collagen’s maximum benefits; a protocol that’s better known as collagen loading.

Doubling the dose works to effectively rebuild lost collagen and allows the body to easily overcome the age-related deficit. 

While some individuals may only need to “load” (10-20g daily) for a matter of months, many find the most success by using the loading dose long-term. This helps ensure that collagen levels stay elevated for good. 

Now that you know a bit more about how much collagen your body really needs in order to experience results, you’ll also want to know the doctor-recommended approach to getting more collagen in your diet. 

Though it is possible to obtain extra collagen through diet (consuming animal products such as gelatinous meats, the cartilage on bones such as chicken drumsticks, and skin from poultry), most find it unappealing or difficult to eat enough to support their body’s requirements.

Plus, the absorption is not as efficient as that of hydrolyzed collagen powder supplements. The collagen in supplements has already been broken down, or hydrolyzed, which is why it is thought to be absorbed more efficiently than the collagen in foods.

This is why supplementing with a high-quality collagen protein powder has become the preferred method for increasing collagen levels within the body. Most collagen powder supplements include a pre-dosed measuring scoop that makes adding more collagen to one’s diet seamless. 

But not all collagen supplements are created equal...

As more and more collagen supplements burst onto the stage, it’s important to understand the different types of collagen, as well as the different sources and health benefits associated with the most important types.

Collagen types contain different proteins which serve separate purposes within the body.

However, most thoroughly researched specifically for anti-aging & mobility benefits are types I and III collagen. 

These are frequently thought to be useful for the broadest number of people who are seeking to maintain an active lifestyle well beyond their 60’s.

Type I collagen, which is the most abundant collagen naturally found in the human body, is useful for visible anti-aging benefits such as:

• Getting rid of wrinkles
• Skin hydration & elasticity
• Wound healing, the formation of scar tissue
• Reduction in cellulite, possibly even stretch marks
• Moderate weight loss

Type III collagen, which is the second most prevalent collagen naturally found in the human body, is useful for physical anti-aging benefits:

• Muscle, ligament & tendon strength
• Restoring mobility within connective tissues
• Mitigating muscle soreness, aches & pains
• Bone & joint health
• Gut lining & digestive health
• Injury & fall prevention

Of all collagen’s health benefits, research is most certain about Type I and Type III’s ability to support ageless skin, hair, nails as well as effectively boost muscle, ligament and tendon strength to support healthy joints as well as an active lifestyle. 

Therefore when choosing a collagen supplement, it’s important to ensure Type I and Type III collagen is present in the formula.

Based on recent clinical trials, there are 3 keys to getting the absolute best results with collagen supplementation.

#1.) Avoid “multicollagen” Marketing Scams

While multicollagen supplements tend to be less expensive, there are a few key reasons why choosing bargain brand multicollagens may not be the smartest option for meeting your daily collagen needs.

For starters, research indicates that certain collagen types should be taken together while others should be taken separately. 

For example, because collagen Type II protein makes up the fluids and function in the cartilage and joints, Type II collagen supplements should be taken separately from Types I & III to ensure adequate absorption.*

For this reason, taking multicollagen supplements that combine all the various types of collagen into 1 serving isn’t recommended as this will blunt the absorption, hindering the body from reaping the full benefits.

Additionally, many collagen fiber types that don’t have ample research backing their effectiveness are cheaper to source. These low-cost collagen types are often used in multicollagen supplements as fillers to mitigate manufacturing costs - ultimately yielding a far less effective supplement.

Therefore in order to experience maximum anti-aging results with collagen supplementation, use a powder that combines Types I & III - and leave out all the rest. 

#2.) Make Sure Your Collagen Supplement Is Certified Grass-Fed

If you’ve considered supplementing with collagen then you probably already know that picking a collagen source can be a bit confusing.

Bone broth collagen, bovine-collagen, chicken-collagen, marine-collagen…

With so many options to choose from - how can you decide which is the best option for you?

Here’s what you need to know about the source:

It actually doesn’t matter as much as you think it does.

While the ratio and concentration of amino acids may vary slightly from source to source, structurally, collagen is the same whether it’s coming from a cow, chicken, fish or bone broth. 

The key difference maker to pay attention to isn’t the animal; it’s how the animal was cared for. 

In other words, whether the collagen comes from a grass-fed, pasture-raised, cage-free, free-range, and antibiotic-free source, (or not), will have a direct impact on the absorption, effectiveness and ultimately the safety of the supplement. 

Grass-fed cows are never fed any genetically modified organisms and are not exposed to growth hormone treatment (rBGH & rBST), chemicals, antibiotics, or injected pathogens. This makes grass-fed collagen one of the healthiest (and safest) protein supplements to include in your diet. It is free of hormones, antibiotics, pesticides, and steroids.

The only way to ensure you are avoiding this risk of toxin exposure is by using a collagen supplement that is Certified Grass-Fed.

#3.) Look For “Hydrolysate” On The Label

To ensure your body can easily digest and put the collagen to immediate use, make sure the supplement is fully hydrolyzed collagen. 

When hydrolyzed, collagen is carefully reduced to smaller, more digestible peptides during the manufacturing process. 

Studies indicate properly hydrolyzed collagen peptides are available in the bloodstream within two hours of ingestion — usually within only one hour.

In other words, using a hydrolysate collagen means your body will be able to start reaping the age-defying benefits much more rapidly.

Consuming pure Grass-Fed, Type I & III collagen fibers that are fully hydrolyzed for fast absorption will give your body a huge advantage when it comes to staving off joint pain as well as reducing visible signs of aging. 

At NativePath, Dr. Walding (DTP & Co-Founder) has played a critical role in developing a breakthrough formula to make meeting daily collagen needs easier and more effective than ever.

Taken together, Collagen Types I & III have been shown to help:

• Support the bone matrix (36% of bone is made up of collagen Type I and III)
• Enhance muscle, tendon & ligament strength
• Decrease muscle & joint soreness, stiffness, chronic pain
• Minimize fine lines and wrinkles
• Improve elasticity of skin & connective tissues
• Correct weak or damaged nail beds
• Thicken brittle hair, slows hair loss
• Improve circulation & promote heart health
• Support intestinal health & gut lining
• Promote glycine production to enhance sleep cycle & recovery 
• Boost lean muscle & support a fat-burning metabolism
• Increase skin hydration, suppleness & decrease micro-furrows

Every scoop of NativePath Grass-Fed Collagen is consistently formulated with 10 grams of the highest-quality grass-fed, Type I and Type III collagen which are critical for maintaining the youthful function and appearance of the skin, hair, nails, joints, bones, muscles and more.

Using an advanced hydrolyzed collagen peptide formula, NativePath’s premium collagen powder allows for maximum absorption and potency.

This means it can be broken down, converted, and absorbed back into the body to rebuild joint strength, fill in fine lines and promote graceful aging much more effectively than non-hydrolyzed collagen brands.

Replenish collagen back to youthful levels now with NativePath Grass-Fed Collagen today.

Our convenient 10g-scoop makes it easy to measure the precise amount of NativePath Grass-Fed Collagen to add to your diet. Here’s the scoop on how much collagen protein you should take, depending on your goals and needs:

1 Scoop (10 grams) Per Day

2 Scoops (20 grams) Per Day

Supporting general connective tissue health

Rebuilding bone matrix (increasing bone density and mass)

Increasing muscle, joint, cartilage and tendon strength

Improving tissue recovery speed after injury or post-surgery

Reducing minor aches, pains & joint stiffness for pain-free mobility

Supporting general skin health

Increasing skin elasticity to reduce deep wrinkles & fine lines

Strengthening connective tissues under the skin to reduce cellulite

Promoting hair follicle thickness, regrowth and balding prevention

Improving nail strength

Supporting general digestive health

Restoring gut lining to protect against leaky gut

Supporting immune & metabolic functions

Promoting heart & artery health

• More youthful-looking skin, healthier nails, & noticeably thicker hair
• Decreased appearance of fine lines and deep wrinkles
• Less joint & knee discomfort
• Improved gut health & decreased digestive discomfort
• Easier weight loss & more appetite control

While it is possible to experience some benefits of collagen supplementation with just 1 serving per day, doubling your daily dose will help to rapidly replenish the age-related deficit.

Thus, putting you on the fast track to fully experience the wide array of dramatic youth-restoring results for the long term.

You’ve seen first hand how hundreds of people are giving their praises to this breakthrough collagen therapy approach…

And you’ve seen the proven-science and research citations behind the many benefits of collagen supplementation…

So let me ask you this question…

Are you willing to risk spending your so-called “golden years” trapped in a lonely downward spiral of age-related decline?

Like many older adults…

Joint pain tends to be the first indication of more severe issues to come…

Including the inability to perform simple, everyday tasks…

Or engage in your favorite hobbies…

Or worse, a total loss of independence...

But by using the collagen loading technique, many older adults have been able to rebuild their connective tissues, and prevent ongoing wear and tear...

And get their confidence - and their life - back… 

Without surgery. 

After witnessing just how powerful collagen can be for those dealing with chronic pain... 

I began putting all of my time and resources toward one goal and one goal only...

To advance the field of collagen therapy to help as many people as possible restore their body and their quality of life...

YES, you can take your body and health back into your own hands!

At this point, you may be wondering how you can try NativePath Grass-Fed Collagen yourself…

Along with how much and how often do you need to take it for best results?

At NativePath, our formula provides the same exact set of immune-modulating and tissue-repairing amino acids as whole-food sources of collagen.

To increase the effectiveness, our blend undergoes a tedious hydrolysis process which breaks the protein down into shorter chains of peptides. 

Thus, making them more absorbable (and almost immediately usable within the body once ingested). 

But there’s just one downside…

This meticulous process adds weeks (sometimes months) onto our manufacturing operations.

Which means it can take a very long time to produce even a single jar of NativePath Grass-Fed Collagen.

On top of that, those who try our collagen formula keep coming back to order more… And at larger quantities, too…

"I’ve been using it for 8 months. The arthritic pain in my hands has gone away. My eyelashes and eyebrows are all filling in and my hair is growing faster and thicker. My hairstylist has noticed the difference over the last 2 or 3 months. So I’m very pleased!"

Linda McKeough on February 19th 2022

"I increased to 2 scoops of collagen every day and my sacroiliac joint pain is finally gone!"

Penni Phillips on February 11th 2022

"I am so glad I ordered this. My hip was hurting with every step for about three months. I was told I have rheumatoid arthritis. In spite of that, the collagen has overpowered my pain level. Within three weeks the pain is gone. I can now function much better. And no pain!"

Sherrie A. Curry on April 26th 2022

Which is a good problem to have, but the large influx of large orders put even more of a strain on our production.

Especially since our small-batch hydrolyzed collagen formula can take months to produce.

As a result, our collagen keeps selling out…

Fortunately, our sourcing team was able to secure a large surplus of our custom-crafted collagen formula just before the government-mandated lock downs swept across the nation…

This is incredible news since I believe collagen to be the number one whole-food supplement you can stock up on right now, while our health and immunity are at top of mind.

So how much collagen do you really need to take in order to reap the tissue-repairing and immune-boosting benefits?

Based on the research citations, a daily collagen dose of 10 grams (1 scoop) is recommended for maintaining collagen levels. 

But for older individuals, their collagen levels are already at a severe deficit - which means their collagen baseline starting point is at a critically below-normal range. 

For this reason, I recommend individuals over 60 to double their dose (a method known as “collagen loading”) in order to rebuild their deficit and experience the full spectrum of health benefits.  

Doubling the dose (taking 2 scoops a day instead of just 1) works to effectively restore lost collagen and allows the body to easily overcome the age-related deficit. 

According to clinical studies, anywhere from 8 weeks to 12 months of daily collagen use is required in order to achieve maximum results.

Many of my patients find the most success by using the loading dose long-term. This helps ensure that collagen levels stay elevated for good.

So it makes sense why so many collagen users order large quantities of collagen at a time...

The benefits of collagen are only truly realized when it’s taken day-after-day and month-after-month

Simply put, collagen is no “miracle supplement”...

• Take it on a consistent daily basis. Simply add it to your morning coffee or water
• Take the proper dose. Two scoops (20 grams) a day helps rebuild the age-related collagen deficit so that maximum results can be achieved
• Take it for the proper amount of time. Clinical studies show that the longer you use collagen, the greater (and longer-lasting) the benefits will be

In other words, taking a scoop here and there isn’t going to cut it. 

Consistency is key. 

Which is why I recommend my clients to:

• Start with at least 3 bottles of NativePath Grass-Fed Collagen at a time.
• And 6 bottles if they want to be completely safe. 
• Then take it for a period of at least 90 days.

And there’s never been a better time to secure your supply of our best-selling collagen than now…

Because so many studies show that using more collagen for longer durations yields the greatest results…

We wanted as many people as possible to have access to this powerful whole-food supplement.

That’s why my NativePath team and I went to great lengths to secure a surplus of our tissue-healing & immune-supporting collagen formula to offer our deepest discount offer yet.

Right now when you stock up on 6 jars of NativePath Grass-Fed Collagen…

Not only will you save over $101…

But we’ll deliver your order straight to your door within 7-10 business days...

365-Day Feel Good Guarantee

At NativePath, we believe in the quality of our products, which is why we now offer a 365-Day “Feel Good'' Guarantee every time you purchase. That means you have an entire year to try out your NativePath Collagen, and if you are not jumping for joy as your knees stop creaking so much… your hair starts to feel thicker and healthier… deep wrinkles begin to disappear… and your motivation is supercharged…

If you don’t feel the difference or if for any reason you are not 100% satisfied, you may return unopened products from your most recent order to us within 365 days of the day it is delivered to your door. Simply call our friendly Customer Care Center toll-free at 1(800) 819-2993 for assistance.

Rest assured you can order with confidence in knowing that your purchase is backed by our 365-Day “Feel the Difference” Money-Back Guarantee.

At NativePath, we want to do everything we can to spread good health - when our nation needs it most. 

That’s why we’re offering a generous stock-up-and-save 6 jar package to make our grass-fed collagen more accessible and affordable than ever.

To help as many people as possible during these trying times, we’re committed to making NativePath Grass-Fed Collagen available at our lowest price to date... until we sell out. 

By securing our special 6 jar package, you will not only receive our best-pricing (normal retail on Amazon is $37.99/jar, with our 6 jar package you pay just $21/jar)... 

But you’ll also secure a large enough supply of collagen to last you months.

This helps guarantee that you’ll have the appropriate amount of collagen needed for consistent daily dosing (without worrying about running out pre-maturely)...

In these times of uncertainty, taking advantage of our 6 jar package will give you confidence in knowing you’ve got the ideal supply of collagen handy to experience the full spectrum of health benefits. 

You’ve seen the science, you’ve heard about its benefits, you’ve read how this one nutrition habit has helped restore the health of thousands…

So now it’s your turn to decide.

Go ahead and order your 6, 3, or 1 month supply of NativePath Grass-Fed Collagen by choosing one of the packages you see below.

Our six-month option is by far our most popular.

The reason why is simple: NativePath Grass-Fed Collagen uses only the highest-quality type I & III collagen sourced from pasture-raised bovine in South America. As a result, there are often shortages that put us at risk of running out of stock. 

Once our customers begin using NativePath Grass-Fed Collagen and experience the difference in the way they look, feel and move, they never want to be without the breakthrough. 

That’s why they typically stock up on a multi-month supply, that way they can be protected from future stock outages. 

Based on 6,558 reviews

"Today, I celebrate my 79th birthday. Thanks to NativePath, my joints are no longer inflamed and are pain-free, my nails are healthy and strong, my hair feels silky, and my friends keep asking me why I keep getting younger-looking as the years pass by."

Lu Munroe on March 31st 2022

"Fantastic product!! So happy to find this product!! Has improved my pain factor and mobility with my rheumatoid arthritis 100%!!"

Lisa Crimboli on April 28th, 2022

I've never had any type of collagen/protein powder dissolve so easily & completely. This was a game changer. I don't miss a day!

Kimberly Bishop on April 24th, 2022

This is the best thing I have ever done for myself! My fibromyalgia is barely noticeable! The pain in my neck and shoulders for over 30 years has vanished, Totally gone now! My hair is growing fairly fast (about and inch a month) and nails are healthy and growing so I need no nail salon! Native Path you are awesome!

Debbie S. on March 23, 2020

I started using this product in the middle of Dec 2019. I've clearly seen an improvement in my hair and nails. Something else I just realized, I've been having pain on the outside of my right leg for several months. T-band issues from a total knee replacement in 2015. I had been waking up at night, laying on my right side and it hurt to turn over. Few nights ago I woke up on right side and there was NO pain. The leg hasn't hurt for a few days now and I couldn't be happier! This amazing stuff WAY better than pain pills!

Danette on January 03, 2020

Q: How many jars should I order?

Our best value quantity is our 6 jar package which you will get at an unbeatable price of just $21 per jar (retails for $37.99). 

At the normal retail price, this package would cost $227.94 but through this special page, you can take advantage of our limited-time 45% OFF discount and get 6 full-size jars for a total of just $126. That’s a massive savings of over $101!

Plus, with a 6-jar supply, you will have more than enough collagen to be able to take 2 servings a day (the recommended daily dose of collagen for maximum benefits) without worrying about running out.

By taking 2 scoops of NativePath Grass-Fed Collagen each day, you’ll effectively replenish your body’s supply of collagen. Building this foundation allows you to fully reap the maximum age-defying benefits by first bringing your depleted collagen levels back to baseline.

Q: How many servings are in each jar?

Each full-size jar of NativePath Grass-Fed Collagen contains 25 servings. 

Q: How many times per day should I take collagen?

While you can definitely see and feel the difference collagen can make on your skin, hair, nails, joints, and gut health with just 1 scoop a day, for the FULL age-defying benefits, we recommend taking multiple servings per day (at least 2 scoops) for maximum results. 

Especially if you are over the age of 50, your collagen levels have likely already declined by a staggering margin of 30% (or more). That means you’ll require a collagen surplus (20 grams or more per day) just to bring your collagen levels back to baseline. 

Since NativePath Grass-Fed Collagen has no taste or odor, adding multiple servings of our premium powder to your diet has never been easier. You can simply add a scoop to your morning coffee or tea, smoothie, juice, unsweetened almond milk, or even add it to your yogurt, soup, pudding, or baked goods. 

Plus, to give you even more ways to use NativePath Grass-Fed Collagen, we included our exclusive 30 Collagen Smoothie Recipes book right into your order.

Q: What is the best way to use this product?

The easiest way to use NativePath Grass-Fed Collagen is to mix a serving into 8-12 oz of any hot or cold beverage and gently stir. You can also add collagen to recipes like smoothies, soups, or stir it right into your oatmeal, pudding, or yogurt if you like.

For best results, we recommend taking advantage of the collagen loading method (taking 2 or more scoops a day) to ensure your collagen deficit is adequately replenished. 

To use NativePath Grass-Fed Collagen, simply take 2 scoops at once or split your servings up (one in the morning and one later in the day or before bed) - it’s up to you!

Q: How long do I have to use this product before I see results?

Many of our clients who use multiple scoops per day notice results as early as their first week with our Grass-Fed Collagen. More profound results are experienced with prolonged use - which is why we recommend to stock up so that you can experience the transformative benefits of long-term use without the risk of running out of jars.

Q: What is collagen, anyway?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body, accounting for about a third of its protein composition. It's one of the major building blocks of bones, skin, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Collagen is also found in many other body parts, including blood vessels, corneas, and teeth.

Q: Why should I add collagen to my diet?

While our bodies are fully equipped to produce collagen naturally – once we hit our early 30's, it begins to decline by about 1.5% per year. 

Have you ever wondered why our skin begins to sag and wrinkle as we get older? It’s because as we age, our bodies' natural production of collagen begins to slow down. The creaking, popping joints, dull skin, cellulite, brittle hair, and digestive issues aren’t necessarily simply a factor of age, they’re actually all symptoms of low collagen levels. 

Fortunately, science has shown us a natural way that we can fight back against aging. By supplementing with a high-quality hydrolyzed collagen powder, we can boost our body’s natural production and experience all of the positive youth-rebooting benefits. In this way, we can easily restore and regenerate collagen levels to help maintain radiant health at any age.

Q: How will this product be shipped to me and how quickly?

You can expect to receive your order within 7-10 business days.

Q: Is it really safe to order this product from this online website?

Yes. Our website is protected by Trust-Guard, an online PCI Compliant Security Scanner software that prohibits security holes from compromising your shopping experience. The Security-Scanned seal is intended to inform shoppers that our business is certified and trusted as safe, responsible, and totally awesome.

Q: What if this product doesn’t work for me?

Many of our customers begin to see and feel a difference shortly after adding our premium collagen powder into their diets. However, we want to make sure there’s absolutely no risk involved when it comes to investing in any of our NativePath products. 

That’s why you can try our 100% Grass-Fed Collagen for an entire 365 days and if for any reason you're not completely satisfied, simply contact our Customer Care team to receive a refund. So rest assured, you can complete your order today knowing that you're protected by our risk-free money-back guarantee.

Q: How long will this special 45% OFF collagen offer last?

Taking 45% off our full-size collagen jars is a very generous deal (we barely break-even), so this special offer will not last long and it can be deactivated without notice at any time. So if you’re even a little curious about what collagen can do for you, here’s your chance to stock up and save! Simply click the button below.

365-Day Feel Good Guarantee

As a doctor of Physical Therapy, Senior Wellness Expert and co-founder of NativePath, Dr. Walding has helped hundreds of patients improve their quality of life from the inside out. The mission behind NativePath is to restore human health and vitality by helping others rediscover the Native way to eat, move and live through online community support, informative resources and whole food supplements. To deliver only the best of what nature has to offer, each small batch formula is sustainably sourced, GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) manufactured, and third-party tested. Using both ancestral wisdom and cutting edge science, NativePath proudly offers a wide array of doctor-developed solutions for addressing modern healthcare the way nature intended.

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