Skin, Hair & Nails Health By Sanutra Wellness Overview & Drug Interactions

Collagen peptides are a form of collagen, a protein that is found in the connective tissue of animals. Collagen is a major component of the skin, tendons, ligaments, and bones, and it plays a key role in maintaining the strength and integrity of these tissues. Collagen peptides are made by breaking down collagen into smaller pieces, or peptides, which can be more easily absorbed by the body. It is sold as a dietary supplement and often marketed as being able to improve skin health, reduce inflammation, and enhance joint function. There is some evidence to suggest that collagen peptides may have certain health benefits when taken as a supplement. For example, studies have shown that collagen peptides can improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, as well as reduce joint pain and improve mobility in people with osteoarthritis. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of taking collagen peptides as a supplement. As a dietary protein, it is thought to be relatively safe to combine with most drugs.

Bacillus coagulans, also known as Weizmannia coagulans or Lactobacillus sporogenes, is a spore-forming, lactic acid-producing, Gram-positive bacterium used as a probiotic. Bacillus coagulans has shown benefits for constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Its spores are stable in stomach acid and reach the small intestine, where they germinate and multiply, with around 85% reaching their destination. The bacterium is excreted via feces, with spores detectable up to 7 days post-administration. Mechanistically, Bacillus coagulans exhibits antibacterial effects through the production of coagulin, lactic acid, and lactosporin, reducing pathogenic bacteria colonization. It also demonstrates antifungal properties and anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing the growth of pathogenic bacteria and decreasing the production of lipopolysaccharides. Bacillus coagulans may stimulate immune response, as evidenced by increased CD4+ T cells in adults with HIV-1 infection and modulation of inflammatory cytokines in schoolchildren. These properties categorize Bacillus coagulans as an immunomodulator, immunostimulant, and probiotic, with potential therapeutic applications in promoting digestive health and immune function.

Black pepper is a spice made from the dried, unripe fruit of the Piper nigrum plant, which is native to the southwestern coast of India. It is one of the most widely used spices in the world, and it is often utilized to add flavor and heat to a wide variety of dishes. In traditional medicine, black pepper is purported to have a number of health benefits. It is a good source of antioxidants and is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may make it useful in reducing inflammation and swelling in the body. Black pepper is also used as a natural remedy for digestive problems, such as indigestion and bloating, and to boost the immune system. Black pepper is widely used in dietary supplements, specifically, an extract from black pepper known as piperine. Piperine can affect the absorption of many drugs, which is why it has a large number of reported interactions. Oftentimes, these 'interactions' are purposeful, such as when piperine is used with turmeric, to increase its absorption.