Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body. 30% of the proteins in our body consist of collagen. It helps to make tissues strong and resilient. It is a major component of our skin bones blood vessels hair muscles joints nails. Despite its abundance in our bodies, collagen has become a top-selling supplement.
Our bodies gradually make less collagen as we age, which can cause issues with bones, joints, skin, hair, nails, and many others. Collagen production also drops quickly due to excess sun exposure, smoking, excess alcohol, and lack of sleep and exercise. Environmental exposures can damage collagen, leading to wrinkles on the skin.
· Collagen is found only on the skin in the deeper layers, not on the surface.
· Collagen fibers are too large to penetrate to the skin's outer layers
· Even shorter chains of collagen, called peptides, are not successful at this feat.
You can increase your collagen intake by taking supplements or eating animal foods and bone broth. However, absorption from food may not be as efficient as from supplements. Collagen supplements contain amino acids, the building blocks of protein, and some may also contain additional nutrients related to healthy skin, joints, and hair, like vitamin C, vitamin D, biotin, zinc, glucosamine, and chondroitin.
The collagen is the main component of all blood vessels and plays an important role in maintaining the elasticity and flexibility of each blood vessel.