Collagen: The Basics

Collagen… Is it really the promising fountain of youth, or a supplemental hoax?

What is collagen?————— Collagen is one of the proteins of the body, that provides strength and elasticity to tissues, anchoring the cells together forming structure (bone, muscle, skin, etc.). With age and environmental damage, the body produces less collagen. As a result: wrinkling and sagging skin, bone loss, hair loss as well as joint cartilage weakening.

What damages collagen? ————— High sugar consumption, smoking, UV rays, autoimmune disorders, and of course natural aging

How to naturally prevent collagen loss?————— A healthy diet full of nutrient rich foods will support natural collagen formation. Your body uses protein, vitamin C and zinc to produce its own collagen. By increasing these foods you will boost your natural production: Bone broth, beef, chicken, salmon, tuna, citrus fruit, berries, red peppers, broccoli, tomatoes, kale, garlic, chickpeas, blackens, shrimp, cashews and hempseed. (@livingwithivey)

Should I supplement? ————— Early research shows that taking a collagen supplement may boost your levels. Research is promising, but of course more research is needed to determine the effectiveness. Its best to make changes to your diet, to promote natural production of collagen. If you do choose to supplement, I prefer to drink the collagen as it has been hydrolysed in order to break down the protein structure more readily, therefore more easily digested and absorbed into the bloodstream. These absorbed peptides then, “reach the skin and may be retained in the tissue for up to two weeks” (Dr. Justine Kluck -Elle Magazine). Collagen supplements do improve skin hydration and strengthen the network structure of the tissues resulting in reduced wrinkles, improved elasticity and density. As always when taking a supplement, speak with your doctor to determine your dosage.

My favorite supplements? ————— LANDISH , AURA Use code ERICA10 for 10% off