The cosmetics bag of almost every woman contains products with the ingredient collagen. We're used to thinking of it in terms of firmer, fresher skin or joint and digestive issues, but do you know why? Are you "collagen" aware?
You've probably never asked yourself this question. But after turning 25, each of us should start to think about:
- what keeps our joints strong and flexible;
- why the skin needs support to stay fresh for longer;
- how collagen helps prevent chronic disease?
That's why the questions "What is collagen?" and "Which collagen should I take?" should be among the first you look to answer, the moment you feel that time is not only your friend.
The Collagen of Youth
Collagen is a major component of cartilage, tendons and joint ligaments, and a key protein component of
bones and teeth. Together with soft keratin, it provides strength and elasticity to the skin. At around 20-25 years of age the human body gradually starts losing collagen, at a rate of about 1% per year, and after menopause this rate accelerates sharply in women. By age 60, collagen production has dropped by half in everyone.
Take a look in the mirror! The first signs of collagen loss are dryness, dullness, sagging and fine lines.
Do you have joint pain? Our joints and digestive system also need support for collagen production through balanced nutrition and, when necessary, supplements, so that they keep serving us faithfully and without issues.
Choose Your Collagen According to Your Needs
There are 20 types of collagen, but types 1, 2 and 3 are the most important for human health.
Type I collagen is the main structural component of skin, tendons, bones and organs. It is recommended for improving the condition of hair, skin and nails. As mentioned, it's worth considering this after your 25th birthday.
Type II is the form of collagen found in cartilage. It occurs in a natural matrix with glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and provides strength and elasticity (even stretch) to the tissue. It is important for active people and athletes, and we know well that without movement we easily fall victim to a host of health problems.
Type III is found wherever type I collagen is also found - in the muscles, in the bone marrow, in the blood vessels. Type I and type III collagen together make up more than 90% of the total collagen in the body. That's why it's important to consume foods and supplements rich in these two types of collagen, so we stay healthy, strong and active.
Collagen on Our Table
A varied diet offers us many opportunities to get part of our daily dose of this valuable protein, which is 10,000 mg per day. Besides foods that stimulate its production, we can also include supplements or forms of collagen in our cooking. Gelatin is one of the most accessible forms of collagen in the kitchen. It's beneficial and is used in many homemade treats.
Have you tried "Coffeegen"? Hydrolyzed collagen is a useful and pleasant addition to your morning coffee or tea and supports the function of the joints and digestive system.
Whatever form or circumstance you discover that you and collagen belong together, make sure to have it. With a varied diet and a little help from outside, it will help you outrun time and stay young and healthy for longer.
