Collagen has been part of the skincare game for a long time now. It has gained immense popularity in recent years. Collagen boosters and collagen supplements have been talked about alot recently. Various studies have been conducted to date to understand the importance of collagen in the human body. 

In this blog let's discuss collagen and its relationship in skin rejuvenation.

What is Collagen?

Collagen is a natural protein produced by the body, a very common supplement, and a beauty-enhancing ingredient claiming to improve the overall health of the skin. It is an insoluble, tough, and fibrous protein.

It is the most abundant structural protein. 28 different types of collagen are known however collagen 1 contributes to the 90% present in the human body. The composition of collagen is mainly of three amino acids glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline.

Collagen is found in skin, connective tissue, bones, cartilage, and tendons. It is responsible for a number of cellular processes such as:

• Cellular communication 
• Immunity 
• Tissue maintenance
• Tissue repair

Collagen is produced and maintained by connective tissue cells called fibroblasts. As human beings age the fibroblasts become impaired the collagen molecule is fragmented and its production is reduced and slowed down. Apart from age environmental factors such as sun exposure, smoking, alcohol, lack of good sleep, and lack of exercise can damage the collagen molecules reducing their thickness and strength and causing early wrinkles and sagging of the skin.

Collagen is present in a wide variety of animal foods and animal broth. However, the absorption might not be as much as from supplements.

Benefits of Collagen:

Collagen supplementation has proved to be beneficial in a number of ways:

1. Heart Health:

Studies show that collagen provides structure to the arteries. With reduced collagen, the arteries become less elastic and flexible leading to atherosclerosis.

In a study reduced stiffness was observed when 16 grams of collagen was given daily. Moreover, the levels of HDL  increased by an average of 6%

1. Gut Health:

Collagen is seen to treat the symptoms of leaky gut syndrome which is also commonly known as intestinal permeability.

1. Strengthens the nails and hair:

Collagen provides structure, hence taking collagen improves the texture of hair and nails.

1. Helps Maintain Brain Health:

People taking collagen experience improved mood and reduced anxiety symptoms.

1. Aids in Weight Loss.

Collagen supplements increase the metabolism promoting weight loss.

1. Improves Skin Health:

Collagen plays a vital role in strengthening the skin maintaining its elasticity and hydration of the skin. With increasing age, the body produces less collagen, leading to dry skin and wrinkles.

When collagen supplements are taken they contribute towards slow aging of the skin. These supplements stimulate the body to produce more collagen hence improving the overall health of the skin.

1. Relieves Joint Pain:

Studies suggest that when collagen supplements are taken for joint disorders, they improve the symptoms of joint pain and reduce overall joint discomfort.

Collagen supplements accumulate in cartilage and send signals to tissues to make collagen which reduces inflammation, better joint support and reduces pain 

1. Prevents Bone Loss:

Aging is characterized by low bone density increasing the risk of bone fractures. Studies show collagen inhibits bone breakdown.

However, when collagen is taken with calcium, vitamin D reduces the blood levels of proteins that contribute to bone breakdown.

1. Increases Muscle Mass:

Collagen is an important part of the skeleton. Research shows people taking collagen gain specifically more muscle mass and strength.

What causes collagen loss?

The production of collagen declines as we age.it is more fragmented and loosely distributed. With less collagen, the skin begins to sag, and there is a reduction in bone strength.

Smoking and drinking reduce collagen production. This accelerates the aging of the skin.

In addition to this diet high in sugar and processed foods leads to premature aging and gives rise to a process called glycation.

Another major factor that leads to premature aging is excessive sun exposure that contributes to collagen degradation.

Hence taking a diet rich in beneficial plant foods helps in improving skin health by reducing inflammation and protecting against collagen degradation.

How to add collagen to your diet:

Consuming high-quality protein, vitamin D, Calcium, vitamin C, and zinc in your diet helps the body manufacture its own collagen and maintain healthy collagen levels. 

Taking care of the diet with more protein is helpful in maintaining muscle tissue and bone as one gets older. Experts always recommend consuming more than 0.8 g per kg of your body weight for stronger bones and collagen production.

Alot of people start taking collagen supplements as they age which adds to the collagen in the body, helping the body meet its requirements.

NATURE GLOW Glutathione Collagen Gummies Anti-Aging Whitening Skin Collagen Vitamins are an ideal way of incorporating collagen to improve the health of your skin nails and hair. 

Conclusion

Age-related collagen loss is impossible to revert, but it is definitely possible to slow it down. Avoiding all those factors that contribute towards collagen loss like smoking, drinking, sugar, junk food, etc. a balanced diet rich in good proteins, fruits, and vegetables thrives the skin and rejuvenated it.