In the quest for youthful, radiant skin, a groundbreaking study has revealed that the secret to turning back the clock may lie in an unexpected source – the humble Bonito fish
A recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study has shed light on a promising natural solution for combating the signs of aging skin. The research, published in the journal Skin Research and Technology, investigated the effects of oral consumption of a Bonito fish-derived elastin peptide (VGPG Elastin®) on skin wrinkles, hydration, and pigmentation.1
Elastin is a key protein in the skin’s extracellular matrix, responsible for maintaining skin elasticity and resilience.2 As we age, elastin production declines, contributing to the formation of wrinkles and sagging skin.3 Previous in vitro and in vivo studies have suggested that elastin peptides can enhance fibroblast proliferation and elastin synthesis, potentially offering anti-aging benefits.4
Bonito flakes, known as ‘katsuo boshi’ in Japan, have been a staple in the Japanese diet for centuries. Made from sashimi-quality skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis), the fillets are steamed, air-dried, aged, and shaved into delicate flakes using a traditional 500-year-old method.7 The process involves steaming the fillets, hanging them outside in the shade to air dry, and then storing them in a dark room. This drying and storing process is repeated three times, resulting in hard fillets that resemble wood. The fillets are then shaved over a knifed box, producing long, pinkish tan curls or flakes.7 Bonito flakes are commonly used for their savory flavor in dashi noodle broth, soups, stews, sauces, and as a condiment. They are fat-free, low in sodium, and rich in umami flavor.7 In traditional Japanese cuisine, bonito flakes are used to create a variety of soup stocks called ‘dashi’. The stock is strained to remove the tough fibrous flakes and used as a base for delicious and nourishing soups, stews, and sauces. Ingredients such as kombu, shiitake mushrooms, and vegetables can be added to bonito stock to create variety in flavor and nutrition. Bonito stock is especially popular in miso soup, noodle broth, and French onion soup. It can also be used as a savory substitute for meat in dishes like scalloped potatoes and baked beans, imparting a delightful smoked flavor without a fishy taste. Additionally, bonito flakes make an excellent topping for pizza when briefly broiled to a crisp.7
To clinically evaluate the effect of elastin peptide intake on human skin, researchers conducted a 12-week study involving 100 healthy adult participants from Korea. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either a test product containing 100 mg of VGPG Elastin® or a placebo.1
Skin parameters, including wrinkles, hydration, and brightness (melanin index), were measured at baseline and at 4, 8, and 12 weeks after the intervention. The study employed advanced skin imaging techniques to assess changes in skin roughness, peak-to-valley values, wrinkle height and depth, and eye wrinkle volume.1
After 12 weeks, the group consuming the Bonito elastin peptide showed significant improvements in all measured wrinkle parameters compared to the placebo group. Skin hydration was also enhanced, and the melanin index, a measure of skin pigmentation, was significantly lower in the test group.1
Notably, no participants experienced adverse events related to the consumption of the VGPG Elastin® supplement, suggesting that it is a safe and well-tolerated intervention.1
The study’s lead author, Dr. Ju Hee Lee, explained the significance of the findings: “Our research demonstrates that oral consumption of Bonito elastin peptide can effectively reduce fine wrinkles, improve skin moisture, and decrease pigmentation without causing significant side effects. This natural approach to skin care offers a promising alternative to invasive procedures and topical treatments.”
The exact mechanisms behind the observed skin improvements are not yet fully understood. However, the researchers hypothesize that the elastin peptides may stimulate the production of new elastin fibers and other extracellular matrix components, leading to improved skin elasticity and reduced wrinkle formation.1
Additionally, the antioxidant properties of elastin peptides may help protect the skin from oxidative stress, a key factor in the aging process.5 By neutralizing free radicals and reducing inflammation, the peptides could contribute to a more even skin tone and decreased pigmentation.6
While the results of this study are promising, further research is needed to confirm the long-term efficacy and safety of Bonito elastin peptide supplementation. Additionally, as the study participants were all Asian, future studies should investigate the effects of VGPG Elastin® in more diverse populations.
In conclusion, this groundbreaking research highlights the potential of Bonito fish-derived elastin peptides as a natural, safe, and effective solution for improving the appearance of aging skin. As consumers increasingly seek out non-invasive, science-backed approaches to skin care, VGPG Elastin® may emerge as a game-changing ingredient in the fight against wrinkles, dryness, and uneven skin tone.
For more information on natural approaches to slowing or reversing skin aging, visit our database on the subject here.
References
1. Seong, Seol Hwa, Young In Lee, Joohee Lee, Jangmi Suk, In Ah Kim, Chaemin Baeg, Jinhak Kim, and Ju Hee Lee. “Oral consumption of Bonito fish-derived elastin peptide (VGPG Elastin®) improves biophysical properties in aging skin: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study.” Skin Research and Technology 30, no. 3 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1111/srt.
2. Muiznieks, Lisa D., and Fred W. Keeley. “Molecular assembly and mechanical properties of the extracellular matrix: A fibrous protein perspective.” Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) – Molecular Basis of Disease 1832, no. 7 (2013): 866-875. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.
3. Sherratt, Michael J. “Tissue elasticity and the ageing elastic fibre.” Age 31, no. 4 (2009): 305-325. https://doi.org/10.1007/
4. Aldag, Caroline, Dennis Nogueira Teixeira, and Philipp Leventhal. “Skin rejuvenation using cosmetic products containing growth factors, cytokines, and matrikines: a review of the literature.” Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology 9 (2016): 411-419. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.
5. Kammeyer, Andrea, and Robert M. Luiten. “Oxidation events and skin aging.” Ageing Research Reviews 21 (2015): 16-29. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.arr.
6. Dunaway, Shella, Kunal Odin, Li Zhou, Lin Ji, Yizhan Zhang, and Ali Kadekaro. “Natural antioxidants: multiple mechanisms to protect skin from solar radiation.” Frontiers in Pharmacology 9 (2018): 392. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.
7. “Bonito Flakes.” Eden Foods. Accessed March 26, 2024. https://www.edenfoods.com/
Originally posted: https://greenmedinfo.com/content/revolutionary-fish-derived-peptide-turns-back-clock-aging-skin
