revitalise with collagen
What does collagen do in the body, and do you need to take a supplement?
Collagen is a type of protein which is found in the body’s various connective tissues, such as skin, muscles, tendons, cartilage, bones, and teeth. It is comprised of fibres that are made primarily of the amino acids glycine, proline and hydroxyproline. These fibres are twisted into rope-like form to provide support, structure and, in the case of skin, tendons,
regenerates collagen and keratin, a protein needed for hair and nail health. Can a supplement help? Certain foods are rich in collagen, including animal-derived skin (eg. chicken or fish), bones and ligaments. Collagen supplements may be of benefit if adequate quantities are not
available in the diet. Ageing, illness, stress, insufficient exercise, and the use of certain prescription drugs may compromise collagen production by the body. From a preventive medicine perspective, adding a collagen
ligaments and muscles, also elasticity. Collagen is also required for immune response, tissue repair and maintenance throughout the body. What can go wrong? Collagen is produced naturally in the body, but this process slows from mid-life when instead, collagen breaks down more rapidly and is not adequately replaced. Contributing factors to the shrinking quantity of collagen in the body include too much sun, as UV rays boost
supplement to your daily
routine has been linked to improvements in skin health and appearance, especially for reducing signs of ageing, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and dry, dehydrated, and thinning skin. Some studies suggest that oral doses of collagen can relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Collagen supplements come in a variety of different forms, including capsules and powders. Collagen powder is easily added to food, such as cereal, muesli, smoothies, or your favourite bliss ball recipe.
production of enzymes that destroy collagen, overindulgence in alcohol, which dehydrates skin, weakens muscles, and makes bones more brittle, and inadequate sleep. They don’t call it ‘beauty sleep’ for nothing: during sleep, the body
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ISSUE 71 • 2024
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