The BIÂN Blog

What exactly is collagen? Why is there so much emphasis on it?

Collagen the primary protein-based structure of our connective tissues, meaning that it is a critical component of our physical form and its ability to move, grow, and regenerate. Our skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, hair, and even blood are all examples of connective tissue. Collagen has found popularity because of its centrality to the important functions of connective tissue.  

How does collagen loss begin? What are the first signs of collagen loss?

There are at least 16 types of collagen, each with slightly different chemical structures and functions. The ability for our bodies to create collagen structures loses efficiency and our rate of enzymatic breakdown of collagen (collagenase) increases naturally as we age, usually into our 30s. Collagen “loss” can be thought of more as a shift to less efficient collagen production, organization, retainment, and utilization. Early signs of collagen decrease are loss of elasticity in skin, wrinkling, and easy bleeding or bruising as the integrity of tissues, including blood vessels, become more fragile.‍

What are the main elements that cause collagen loss?

It’s a natural aging process to make less collagen along with other protein structures. Nutritional deficiencies and pro-inflammatory states also play a role. While collagen is the main protein structure of our skin, other proteins like elastin fiber in our dermal layers allow our skin to stretch and return to place. The difference between a newborn baby’s skin compared to an elderly person’s has to do with the relative predominance of elastin present in the baby’s dermal layer. Wrinkles develop when the body’s expression of elastin fibers diminishes enough that the skin, and its collagen organization doesn’t bounce back to form as easily as it did in youth—creating a sagging or wrinkled effect.

How can collagen be stimulated? Why is this important in an well-rounded skincare routine?

We know that collagen needs vitamin C for synthesis. At the local level of the skin, products with vitamin C, vitamin A/E, and other antioxidants to quench inflammatory reactive oxidative molecules should be included in a topical skincare routine.

Why are antioxidants important in building healthy collagen?

Vitamin C, an antioxidant, is the crucial cofactor for collagen synthesis. Other antioxidants found in food are important for collagen production because they help recycle vitamin C by “recharging” it through various chemical pathways. Therefore, having a balanced, consistent, and well-rounded diet rich in vegetables, fruits, & healthy fats directly and indirectly supports production of collagen structures. Antioxidants are the opposite to “reactive oxidant specicies” which are molecules that create inflammation. If our fundamental rate of oxidative inflammatory molecules outpaces our intake or regeneration of antioxidants from our diet & lifestyle, then collagen supplementation would likely be less beneficial.  

How do collagen powders and pills work? Are they beneficial?‍

Collagen is among the most abundantly produced molecules that our bodies create. From this perspective, it is naïve to think that supplementing with collagen automatically means it is allocated to the skin and joints as is often advertised. Collagen powders are not complete proteins, meaning that it doesn’t contain all the essential amino acids that our body relies on the diet to obtain. Therefore, if you are making a choice between collagen or a general protein powder which are complete proteins, choose the latter. As is common with supplemental products, it’s the basics of health that lead to most effective and sustainable results. While there isn’t evidence that collagen is harmful to take regularly (check with your doctor), don’t expect a quick fix without other adjustments to your care strategies.

What are the pros and cons of taking oral collagen vs. using topical products that stimulate collagen production?

Collagen peptide supplementation has demonstrated some evidence in meta-analysis studies to have limited benefit to skin improvement metrics. However, the catch is that it does nothing to alter the natural genetic loss of internal collagen production or increased collagen enzymatic breakdown as we age. Therefore, indefinite supplementation would be required for minimal benefit. As a matter of fact, many of these studies are sponsored and funded by companies with a vested interest in positive outcomes. Topical collagen products may be a more reasonable approach to skin care as opposed to oral intake, especially when combined with other cofactors. To enhance local production of collagen topically, look for products that have vitamin C, vitamin A (retinol), glycolic acid, or hyaluronic acid. Protecting collagen by wearing mineral-based sunscreens as applicable is just as important as stimulating production.

What are some of the most effective treatments for stimulating collagen?

Collagen is produced at such an unfathomably rapid and abundant level in the human body that a different perspective to “stimulating” it can be: “How can we facilitate its appropriate production and mitigate its unnecessary damage by how we eat, live and expose ourselves?”. This comes back to being well-hydrated, eating a diversity of whole unprocessed vegetables and fruits, and finding balance in our lifestyles. We absolutely need vitamin C for collagen production, along with various antioxidative compounds found abundantly in whole, fresh, unprocessed foods. Or supplement safely up to 2,000 mg per day (talk with your doctor). Protecting collagen from the damage of excessive sun exposure, excessive alcohol, unbalanced intake of processed/refined food, and chronic dehydration are foundational to consider. As an alternative to those interested in collagen supplementation, a high-quality bone broth has everything inherent in collagen peptides, powders, and pills, with the added benefit of glycosaminoglycan molecules such as glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, and chondroitin sulfate—all important for the integrity of our connective tissue. Bone broths also have the benefit of easily absorbable minerals such as zinc, calcium magnesium and phosphorus.

What is the Lymphatic System?

‍The lymphatic system is a network of tissues, vessels and organs that work together to move a colorless, watery fluid called lymph back into your circulatory system (your bloodstream). The three main functions of the lymphatic system is tissue drainage, fat transport, and activate immune responses.

What is a lymphatic drainage massage and how does it differ from a regular massage?

Extremely light pressure is used because applying any type of moderate-to-deep pressure around a swollen or stretched tissue could further stretch or tear the swollen tissue. Also, too much pressure bypasses the initial lymphatics where most of the interstitial fluid is collected to form lymph and reduce swelling. In a regular massage, clients can request work almost anywhere they wish, in any order they wish, with a variety of pressures that can be changed from one appointment to the next.

‍What does a lymphatic massage feel like?

The massage technique is very light and relaxing, and uses a combination of little, gentle strokes and a deeper ‘pumping’ action over the main parts of the lymphatic system – the neck, armpits, chest, abdomen, and the upper legs.

How and why can lymphatic drainage massages be helpful after liposuction?

Lymphatic Drainage Massage is a specialized massage technique that is recommended by plastic surgeons, after liposuction, to accelerate the recuperation period. After a procedure like liposuction, tissue can produce excess lymphatic fluid as the body reacts to the traumatic action of the removal of fat. Additionally, the reduction in discomfort and swelling immediately afterwards makes a lymphatic massage an even more pleasurable experience.

Are there certain areas on the body that it would be more beneficial for and why if so?

Lymph from the hand, arm, and under the arm, as well as the chest and upper back areas, drains to the underarm (also known as axillary) lymph nodes to be filtered.

How many after surgery would be helpful?
Most doctors recommend that you receive at least three massages in the week following your surgery. After that, you should monitor how your body is recovering and schedule massages intermittently depending on pain levels and swelling.

Schedule your massage with Mysti Cobb at BIÂN to experience this unique and effective treatment by emailing contact@bianbeauty.com.

Dear BIÂN Members and Friends,

The choices we make define us. As the founders of BIÂN, we chose to come together and create BIÂN, with a singular goal of leading a new paradigm of wellness and living well.  As members, you each chose to join BIÂN’s community, and in doing so, to continue a path of positive evolvement – to live a vital life.  We are on this journey individually and collectively.  It is an honor to share space and moments with you all.  We are incredibly excited for the future.

2023 is a year of expansion for BIÂN – for our physical space, our community, our offerings, and our service to you – our members.  We have learned much these last two years.  Our foundation is strong, our leaders are experienced, and our focus remains on constant improvement and elevation in all aspects of BIÂN.  While perfection is aspirational, the path to constant improvement is attainable and available to all who seek it – and seek it we do.

Expansion of BIÂN’s Physical Space

As most know, we are in the process of building 9,000 square feet of additional club space to serve our community.  We designed this space to address the new ways in which we live, work, and play in this post-pandemic world.  The expansion will have hybrid work areas, small private rooms for calls, zoom meetings or 1x1 meetings, large conference rooms with fully appointed audio visual for your business or event needs, a beautiful lounge, dining, and private event space inclusive of a fully appointed bar, a large new kitchen from which to support all our food & beverage offerings, two new studios for expanded fitness, private training, yoga, and meditation, and two ancillary locker rooms.  We are confident you will love it!

On Monday, February 27, you will see the first tangible sign of our expansion space construction.  We will be closing the Pilates and private yoga room for construction as we incorporate changes to those rooms that will eventually be the entrance to our expansion space.  This is a necessary step in the construction process but will create some inconvenience in the short term.  Our team has a plan to ensure all our offerings remain available during this work, albeit with some modifications.  We expect the duration of the Pilates/private yoga room work to be 4 to 5 weeks.  

Currently, the May/June timeframe is our best estimate for the full opening of the expansion space.  Like many construction projects, supply chain issues and lead times on various items, have impacted our schedule. Know that we remain diligent in doing all we can to complete the expansion as quickly as possible.  

Expansion of BIÂN’s Community

Member experience remains the lens through which we make our choices, including the expansion of our membership.  Our new physical space will allow our membership to grow and our member experience to continue to improve. Our commitment always will be to properly balance our member experience while maintaining a vibrant, engaged community.  

The BIÂN community is your community.  Our goal always has been to grow primarily through our member referrals.  So many of you have proudly recommended BIÂN to family & friends.  Please continue to do so.  We hope and expect to reach a proper equilibrium of members in the next year.  More members allow for increased capacity of offerings, expanded club hours, further programming and events, and accessibility. The stronger and healthier our membership is, the better BIÂN can serve all.  

Expansion of Our Offerings

Our offerings form the foundation of BIÂN.  We will never remain static in this regard.  Rather, we will continue to thoughtfully add offerings to fully support our community and our goal of leading in a new paradigm of wellness and living well.  For those who have been here from the beginning, you’ve seen significant change in the scope of our offerings.  Some reflective of feedback from our membership, and others added as we learn and grow in our mission.  

The expansion space of course allows us to add many specific and necessary offerings, including all those mentioned above.  We’ve also added new offerings exclusive of the expansion space including:  

• Corporate Integrated Executive Physical:  We now offer a one-day fully integrated executive physical to members and non-members alike, inclusive of a complete physical with Dr. Marcie Claybon, a dermatological examination, functional movement assessment, nutritional analysis, and a Chinese Medicine appointment with Dr. Sandra Subotich.

• Physical Therapy, Chiropractic and Acupuncture with Insurance Billing:  We recently added insurance billed services to our menu of offerings.  Many members asked to do their PT, Chiro and Acupuncture at BIÂN using insurance coverage – and we made it happen.  We have a wide variety of times and dates upon which these services are available to members.  Please check the BIÂN app or inquire with our hospitality team – medical@livebian.com or hospitality@livebian.com  

• BIÂN Beauty for non-members:  Our full menu of aesthetic & beauty offerings is now available to your friends & family who are non-members.  We have an incredible, experienced beauty team ready to serve.  BIÂN members and BIÂN Beauty members receive member pricing.  Non-members, however, are welcome to use these specific services but are charged non-member pricing.  

• Thought Leadership & Seminars: The wealth of knowledge among the BIÂN Doctors & wellness leaders is unparalleled. In addition to our Corporate Membership offering, we have launched our Thought Leadership Academy to support the well-being, motivation, connection, and inspiration of your organization, team, or group, with custom seminars, workshops, or retreats - designed to directly impact culture & well-being.  

• Meal Plans: Plans are underway for a formal meal-plan program offering seasonal and simply cooked foods designed to support your health initiatives without sacrificing flavor and experience. Expect ease of ordering, pick-up, and scheduling – all to be launched hopefully within this calendar year with our new kitchen.

We are truly grateful to be your sanctuary, your home away from home, your place of healing and rejuvenation, and your place of fun and social connection.  We each made a choice to be here together – positive choices lead to positive outcomes.  Thank you all!

In Good Health,

Joe Fisher, CEO

Protecting your skin from the sun is one of the most important things you can do to maintain your health, beauty, and wellness. But with so many misconceptions about sunscreen out there, it’s easy to get confused. Read on to better understand SPF and keep your skin safe all year round.

How much sunscreen should I be wearing?

For optimal protection, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends applying 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 to all exposed areas of your body – face, neck, arms, legs, etc. – at least 15 minutes prior to going outdoors. If you’re spending extended time in direct sunlight or engaging in activities that cause you to sweat a lot or get wet (swimming/water sports), re-apply every two hours for maximum protection and reapply after swimming/toweling off. And don’t forget about other parts of your body like the tops of your feet and ears!  

What kind of sunscreen should I be using?

When choosing a sunscreen for yourself and your family, look for ones that have been tested for UVA and UVB protection; this will ensure that they offer adequate protection against both types of rays. Physical sunscreens that contain mineral actives such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide provide broad spectrum coverage without irritating sensitive skin types, while chemical sunscreens are often lighter on the skin but can cause irritation if not chosen carefully. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what feels best on your skin! The key is finding one that fits into your lifestyle while still providing broad spectrum coverage.  

Is it true that wearing sunscreen all the time can prevent me from getting enough Vitamin D?

No - this is a common misconception! Vitamin D is essential for our overall health and well-being; however, it doesn't take long for our bodies to absorb it – usually only 10 minutes each day – so don't worry about depriving yourself when applying SPF liberally throughout the day as advised! Plus, no SPF number protects you from 100% of UV rays; so even if you've applied generous amounts of SPF 50, 98% of UV rays are still getting through which means you're still exposed to enough vitamin D.

Do I need extra protection when flying or visiting higher elevations?

Absolutely! Due to its elevation above sea level, being on an airplane exposes us to more UV radiation than we would otherwise experience on land - meaning we need an extra layer of protection. The same goes when hiking in higher elevations like mountains; due to thinner air at higher altitudes UV radiation becomes stronger by approximately 10-12% for every 3 thousand feet increase in elevation making sunscreen essential during these times too.

What's the difference between chemical & mineral sunscreens?

Chemical sunscreens use organic actives such as avobenzone and homosalate while mineral sunscreens use inorganic actives like zinc oxide & titanium dioxide which block & absorb UV radiation differently depending on how they interact with light waves hitting our skin's surface providing different benefits based on what works best for each individual person & situation. Chemical SPFs offer innovation such as light textures & clear formulas for darker skin tones plus breathable formulas perfect active lifestyles whereas mineral SPFs typically work better with those who have sensitive or acne-prone skin & who spend extended periods indoors during peak daylight hours since minerals act almost immediately upon contact providing quicker defense against damage from UVA/UVB rays.

BIÂN is now offering a standalone Integrative Executive Physical that merges world-class medical, wellness, and preventative offerings with meaningful and effective lifestyle action plans in a luxurious and enjoyable one-day experience. We developed the Corporate Integrative Executive Physical to provide an option for Executives to have an efficient and elevated one-day look into their overall health with a clear path of action that can be incorporated with their providers. Designed for those interested in taking a deeper look into the complete landscape of their health and lifestyle with consideration in research-based perspectives from both the Eastern and Western lens.

What separates this offering from other executive physicals? In addition to a comprehensive medical exam by our board-certified Internal Medicine physician Dr. Marcie Claybon, a dermatologic evaluation, and nutritional consultation, the BIÂN experience provides executives the opportunity to be exposed to other proven medical modalities, such as acupuncture and Eastern Medicine, with trusted, vetted experts in the field. These modalities have been available for centuries but many do not know who to trust or where to look. BIÂN delivers the experts to you so you can experience these therapies in a trusted environment, while still getting the high-quality executive physical you require. Enjoy this unique experience in our private club inclusive of coffee, smoothie, and exceptional lunch.

BIÂN’s integrative approach is the future of medical care.

Learn More

WE BELIEVE THAT AN INTEGRATIVE APPROACH TO HEALTH LOOKS INTO ALL ELEMENTS OF A PERSON RATHER THAN THE SYMPTOM

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If you’ve been having a hard time waking up in the morning or find yourself in an afternoon slump reaching for caffeine and sugar to make it through the rest of the day, it’s time to reset your internal clock. The easiest way to do this is by adjusting your morning routine.

Routines regulate your circadian rhythm.

According to Ayurveda, the 5,000-year-old system of healing and the sister-science of yoga, living in harmony with nature is a key to vibrant health and self-healing. When you follow dinacharya, or daily routines, that align with the cycles of the sun you are also regulating your circadian rhythm which is critical for your health. Your circadian rhythm has an effect on every process in your body because it is your body’s natural time-keeping system that controls hormonal changes. Hormones control everything from sleep/waking, body temperature, tissue repair, metabolism, and on and on.

7 steps to become a “morning person”.

By focusing on your morning routine, you’ll start your day aligned with your internal clock and with nature…which cultivates balance and supports health. Here are 7 ways to get started:

1. Your morning starts the night before. You read that correctly. The most important part of your morning routine is to go to bed by 10 pm. If that seems impossible to you, start by getting into bed 15 minutes earlier than your current time for a week. Keep moving your bedtime closer to 10 pm in 15-minute increments. When you make 7-8 hours of sleep a priority, your body will have more time to repair and regulate itself. When you make sleep a priority, you make your health a priority.

2. Rise with the sun. The pre-dawn hours are filled with the energy of vata, or movement, making it the ideal time to rouse your body and mind. By waking 10-15 minutes before sunrise, you’ll feel energized all day.

3. Drink a glass of warm water with lemon upon waking. During sleep, your body is fasting and as a result, becomes dehydrated. Drinking water upon waking serves to rehydrate the body. Warm water stimulates the gastrointestinal tract and causes peristalsis, which gets things moving. The lemon loosens the toxins and waste that has accumulated in the digestive tract so that they can be eliminated more efficiently and more completely. (Not a fan of lemon? Try lime or another citrus you like.)

4. Wash the night away. While you sleep, your body goes through an internal cleansing cycle in which waste and toxins are processed for elimination. According to Ayurveda, it’s important to flush out the toxins that accumulate overnight in the eyes, in the mouth, on the tongue, and in the nose. When you wake up, rinse your eyes and mouth with warm water, scrape your tongue using a tongue scraper, and flush your nose using a nasal saline flush bulb. Scraping the tongue first thing in the morning also stimulates digestion and revs up your metabolism.

5. Sit and go in. Regular, daily practice of meditation can help reduce stress and increase a sense of inner peace, which promotes a level of well-being that benefits both the mind and body. Studies have shown that meditating for just 3-10 minutes a day has the same cumulative effects as those gained from meditating for 30 minutes a day.

6. Get moving with 10 minutes of gentle yoga or stretching. The benefits of movement on your physical, mental, and emotional health are well-documented. Try just 10 minutes in the morning of gentle yoga or stretching wherever your body needs it. This will begin to break up physical congestion and adhesions in the muscle and soft tissue that literally block the flow of the body’s prana, or life force, through the body. If prana is obstructed, the body becomes dense, toxic, and emotionally protective.

7. Break your fast gently. Because your digestive fire is weak at the beginning of the day, eat something light and warm like stewed apples or oatmeal that is easier for your body to digest.

I know…that’s a lot to change! The goal isn’t to alter your routine overnight.

In fact, I recommend you choose one habit to try on for a week. Once you feel comfortable with that one, add another and see how you feel. Over time, you’ll find that you have a new routine that calms your mind and gives you energy all day. ‍

**article adapted from original published on avantikumarsingh.com