Collagen occupies an important place in the body of each of us, representing about one third of the total protein present. Being such an abundant compound, it also has its responsibilities, being involved in the proper functioning of the bone and muscle systems, as well as in the respiratory and digestive processes. At the same time, collagen is found in the structure of skin, hair and nails. Find out about the importance of this protein for the human body and what to do when collagen production is insufficient.
What is collagen
Collagen is a protein present in high concentrations in the human body and is responsible for a multitude of biological functions and processes. It has a fibrous structure and is part of connective tissues (skin, joints, tendons, bones, etc.), but is also found in internal organs. Collagen is produced naturally by the body, but its synthesis can also be stimulated by exogenous intake (diet or nutritional supplements).
Types of collagen
Collagen is found in nature as a family of no less than 28 types of collagen, five of which are the most common:
- collagen type I - is the most flexible form of collagen and is found in skin, tendons, connective tissue, bones and teeth;
- collagen type II - present in the cartilage lining the joints;
- collagen type III - present in the internal organs as well as in the muscles;
- collagen type IV - also found in the composition of the skin;
- collagen type V - present in bones, muscles, organs and hair.
The benefits of collagen
Among the roles that collagen plays in the body, maintaining skin health and supporting the proper function of joints are among the most important. However, collagen is a particularly useful compound for a number of functions:
- maintains skin elasticity at an optimal level;
- gives skin firmness;
- supports joint mobility and strength;
- maintains the hydroelectrolytic balance;
- helps protect the lungs, giving them elasticity;
- protects the gastric mucosa;
- contributes to hair and nail structure;
- helps muscles recover after intense exercise;
- speeds up wound healing;
- gives elasticity to blood vessels.
There are, however, also situations in which an excess of collagen is produced, such as that caused by the condition known as scleroderma or systemic sclerosis. Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease manifested by the appearance of fibrosis in the dermis or even in the internal organs, caused by the excessive production of collagen. Cases of scleroderma are, however, quite rare, and the causes leading to this condition are not fully understood at present.
Stimulation of collagen production
Today, there are many cosmetics or dietary supplements that serve as sources of collagen, but the most effective way to supply the body with this compound is by stimulating natural collagen production. This can be achieved either through diet or by supplementing with nutrients that support collagen synthesis.
Vitamin C and collagen
While collagen is a compound synthesized by the body, vitamin C is not in the same situation, so it must be assimilated through an external intake. Through its antioxidant properties, vitamin C stimulates collagen production in the body and protects cells, including skin cells, from oxidative stress.
Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid and collagen work together to protect joints by lubricating them, which gives them mobility and durability. If collagen's role is to provide strength for tissues, whether we are talking about bones or skin or tendons, hyaluronic acid is responsible for maintaining optimal hydration of all these tissues.
Ginseng
Found in countless dietary supplements, ginseng (Panax ginseng) is renowned for its antioxidant properties, making it useful in the prevention of many diseases. Ginseng has also been shown to help in the natural production of collagen by protecting connective tissues. In this way, ginseng contributes to maintaining the health of the skin, the musculoskeletal system, as well as hair and nails.
Collagen and nutrition
A balanced, nutrient-rich diet remains the foundation of a healthy body that is resistant to harmful factors. The optimal level of collagen in the body can also be maintained with the help of diet, when it is chosen carefully. Collagen uptake through its intake as such is low, so it is recommended instead to eat foods rich in substances that support the body to produce collagen itself. These foods include:
- green plants (spinach, broccoli, kale);
- citrus fruits (lemons, oranges, mandarins);
- red bell peppers (rich in vitamin C);
- roses;
- foods rich in Omega 3 fatty acids (salmon, trout, tuna, seafood);
- berries (blueberries, blackberries, raspberries);
However, no matter how hard we try to provide the body with the necessary nutrients through diet, it may often not be enough. The fast pace of everyday life and the many disruptive factors (pollutionstress, fatigue, etc.) consume the body's resources faster than we can sustain them. Thus, we end up needing to supply nutrients (especially antioxidants) in more effective therapeutic ways. Modern therapies in this area may be the answer to chronic fatigue, sleep disorders, low immunity or dull and ageing skin.
If you also feel that you are facing such problems and are not able to get the desired results, turn to INTRAVENOUS THERAPIES tailored to your needs. You will notice the effects much faster than with conventional dietary supplement treatments, without unwanted reactions.
Supporting the body in the fight against harmful factors around it is by no means an easy task. But with the right information and modern therapies, we can stay one step ahead of the sources of oxidative stress that are so damaging to the proper functioning of vital functions.
