Collagen
Collagen is an essential protein in the body, contributing to approximately 30% of your total protein. It's found in connective tissues like skin, bones, muscles, ligaments, joints, and more. It plays a vital role in maintaining the strength, elasticity, and resilience of these tissues. As we age, natural collagen production begins to decline, typically starting around age 25 at a rate of 1-2% per year. This is why collagen supplementation, through products like collagen peptides, becomes important for supporting skin health, joint mobility, bone strength, and gut function especially as we age.
What are Collagen Peptides? Collagen peptides are broken-down components of collagen, making them more bioavailable and easier for the body to absorb and utilize. There are four main types of collagen peptides:
Type I: Found in skin, bones, teeth, cartilage, and connective tissues, providing structure.
Type II: Primarily in joints and cartilage, offering flexibility and mobility.
Type III: Found in the skin, bones, muscles, organs, and arteries, supporting overall structural integrity.
Type IV: Present in skin layers, contributing to the protective barrier of the body’s largest organ.
Benefits of Collagen:
Collagen peptides are rich in amino acids like glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, which are vital for the resilience and strength of your connective tissues. These amino acids support various aspects of your body, such as:
Skin: Improves elasticity, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and helps maintain skin hydration.
Bones: Supports bone density and regeneration.
Joints: Enhances mobility and joint function.
Hair and Nails: Promotes stronger, healthier hair and nails.
Gut Health: Collagen peptides aid in the repair of the gut lining and improve digestive function by supporting the epithelial layer.
Sources of Collagen: Collagen is abundant in animal tissues, especially in the bones and skin of beef, chicken, and lamb. Bone broth, which is made by boiling these animal bones, is an excellent natural source of collagen. For those who don't consume bone broth, collagen powders are a convenient alternative. Popular brands offer a variety of collagen products, including flavoured and unflavoured powders that contain types I and III collagen peptides. Some products also feature Fortibone® and Verisol®, two ingredients that target specific health benefits:
Fortibone®: Aids in bone regeneration and enhances osteoblast and osteoclast function, promoting healthy bone density and mobility.
Verisol®: Targets fibroblasts to improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, decrease cellulite, and promote healthy hair and nails.
Collagen Usage and Results: You can consume collagen daily by adding powder to smoothies or even mixing flavoured collagen powders into water. Many people report visible improvements in skin texture, reduced fine lines and wrinkles, and enhanced hair and nail quality after consistent use. Studies on Verisol® have shown significant improvements, such as a 15% increase in skin elasticity, a 60% boost in collagen content in the skin, and a 42% improvement in hair and nail quality compared to a placebo group.
Incorporating collagen into your routine can also support gut health by aiding the healing of the epithelial layer, which is essential for good digestion and overall wellness. So, whether you choose to add collagen powder to your diet or enjoy bone broth, you're providing your body with the tools it needs to support a range of important functions.