It is a protein, and hence it is an essential vision that performs a very vital duty within our bodies. In recent years, it has appeared as a very potent force in health. It is present in skin, bones, muscles and tendons and ligaments and their principal function is to provide structural support for these tissues.
I still remember when I was in my early thirties, my skin productivity of collagen was still so high and that had something to do with my health. This article would entail health benefits associated with collagen, the sources, how can one incorporate it into their diets and finally the most important section that responds to the frequently asked questions.
What is Collagen?
Consequently, it is the most abundant protein in the human
body; it as constitutes about one third of the total protein within the body.
From it, develops part of our skin, bones, muscles and even tendons as well as
ligaments which are present in the body. It provides structural framework with
somewhat flexibility making it compulsory for any form of healthiness.
Types of Collagen
There are at least 16 types of collagen, but the biggest portion of the total collagen in the body is one of the following three types.
- Type I: This is the most common type found in the skin,
bones, tendons, and ligaments, providing structure and strength to muscles.
- Type II: The majority of type II collagen lives in
cartilage, providing a feel of integrity and helping cushion joint parts.
- Type III: They are normally accompanied by type I collagen. They exist in the skin, blood vessels, and body organs. It provides firmness and elasticity in these tissues.
Health Benefits of Collagen
1. Healthy Skin
The most apparent benefit of collagen is that it improves the skin. In a human, with increasing age, the production of this protein is decreased, which results in wrinkles, dryness, and loss of elasticity in the body. Several scientific studies show that supplementation with collagen improves hydration, elasticity, and beauty of the skin.
- Reduces Wrinkles: Reports have been shown to claim that with
the supplementation of collagen, the depth of wrinkles and fine lines is also
reduced, hence giving the skin a smooth look.
- Improve elasticity; because it provides support for the skin hence preventing it from sagging and thus the skin look firmer
2. Joint health and pain reliever
One of the essential molecules which maintain us healthy with regards to the joints. Since time's passing by, the collagen used in our joint's cartilage becomes worn out and for this reason we face paining of our joints and sometimes osteoarthritis conditions.
- Several researchers have found that the administration of
the element will bring relief from pain in the joints, largely in patients
suffering from any disease associated with osteoarthritis or any related
condition.
- Increased Mobility at the Joints: Supplements of collagen
provide for higher levels of flexibility at the joint, and thus a human is able
to engage in or perform any form of workout without much pain.
- Shock Absorption by Joints: When one moves, the structural support of cartilage linked to collagen absorbs shock.
3. Bones
Bone density usually decreases with age; therefore, a disease like osteoporosis. Collagen gives the bones their framework, which is what they need to give strength; thus, it forms an essential part of the health of the bones.
- Increased Bone Density: Supplementations of collagen may
enhance the bone density since it provides the proteins which the body needs to
formulate bones.
- Risk of Fractures: The risks of fractures may decline as well as overall health of the bones could be supported because the bones become strength due to collagen.
View More: 8 Collagen-Rich Foods To Add To Your Diet
4. Muscle Mass and Strength
Collagen plays an extremely important role in connective tissues and also in mass and muscle strength. Extremely important in the athletes and participants to physical exercises.
- Muscle repair and growth: Collagen provides the necessary
amino acids, which are in their repair and building that eventually increase their
recovery after exerting themselves.
- Increased muscle mass: There is some evidence that supplementing aged persons increased muscle mass when it is used in conjunction with resistance exercise.
5. Cardiovascular Health
Collagen forms part of the vessel. Its absence would thus be a big deal in regards to heart health.
- Good Vessel Structure: Collagen keeps the structure of the
blood vessels, hence ensuring proper circulation and avoiding diseases
associated with the cardiovascular area.
- Lower Levels of Cholesterol: Other research indicates that collagen can assist in managing the cholesterol levels, thus leaving an individual with a healthy heart.
6. Gut Health
Collagen also may benefit to the gut health by conserving the integrity of the lining of the gut.
- Better Gut Lining: There are some amino acids found in
collagen that can be applied to build up the gut lining preventing leaky gut
syndrome
- Better Digestion: Gut health apart, the supplements of collagen may even prove to provide better digestion as well as better absorption of nutrients
7. Hair and Nail Condition
Even improves the condition of hair as well as nails so enhancing the appearance and strength as well.
- Stronger Nails: Collagen supplements may make the nails
build-up, as well as reduce brittleness.
- Healthier Hair: Collagen supports hair structure; hence, may cause healthy and shinier hair.
Sources of Collagen
There are two types of sources of collagen that include
dietary sources and supplements.
Dietary Sources
- Bone Broth: Bone broth is the extract obtained by simmering
the animal bones and connective tissues. This is a source of collagen and can
very easily be added to soups and stews.
- Meat: Meat items that contain good quantities of connective
tissue are brisket and chuck. These consist of collagen.
- Fish: The skin and the scales of a fish is full of collagen,
hence fish is an excellent source for seafood enthusiasts.
- Eggs: Proline is among the several amino acids in white of eggs, so it is a source of collage.
Collagen Supplements
Collagen supplements can be taken in various forms including:
- Collagen Peptides: These are simply the broken-down collagen
protein that is easily assimilated by the body. So they can easily be added to beverages,
smoothies or to food.
- Gelatin: It is a cooked form of collagen and thus can easily
be used it for cooking and baking.
- Capsules and Powders: These capsules and powders comprise the usual form of this protein and thus can be easily taken.
Conclusion
Being one of the most significant proteins that play a very very crucial role in our health and functionality, collagen only coincidentally happens to be documented for its excellent benefits concerning skin, joints, bones, and even general wellbeing. It's one supplement many people who want to find better health and wellness always look for.
You can tap into this essential protein's power by including collagen-rich foods and supplements in your diet in a bid to meet the needs of your body. Still, one is supposed to see a doctor when introducing new supplements especially when having health problems and allergies. If properly brought into your lifestyle, it might become an excellent supplement of health.
Please book an appointment with the best General Physician in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find the verified doctor for your disease.