Collagen – is this new superfood for you?
Collagen is the most abundant protein found in the human body. It is the glue that holds together skin cells and muscle fibres and keeps joints moving.
The beauty industry was the first to use collagen as a key ingredient in anti-wrinkle creams and serums. Then the medical fraternity started prescribing it in capsule form to aid achy joints. Now, sports stars and influencers are adding collagen powder to their daily smoothies.
In this blog we look at why collagen is getting so much attention and whether you could benefit.
It is important to note that the human body is actually really good at making its own collagen. So for those 25 years old and under taking collagen will most likely yield no improvement in your overall appearance or health. You are at your prime collagen level anyway. However, for those older than 25 and for those with certain chronic diseases, taking collagen may assist you to have better health in three key areas:
Collagen for Skin
Collagen is the glue that holds skin together and gives it its bounce. Young skin is rich in this protein which is why it does not flake and is not prone to wrinkles. When collagen levels are low, skin will appear thinner, redder and dryer as moisture leaves through the teeny gaps between skin cells.
Most biologists would recommend ingesting collagen rather than only applying it only to the top layer of your skin. Skin is a natural barrier and topical collagen may not penetrate deeply enough for you to see a difference.
Collagen for Muscle
For those who dabble in sports performance or those older athletes who do not want to have long recovery periods between events, taking collagen supplements can assist with muscle repair. As collagen plumps up the skin it can also plump up muscles making them look and work better. This increase in muscle mass has a knock on effect on fat loss.
A smoothie is a great way to ensure your collagen is broken down and absorbed along with the other natural food ingredients. Adding protein to your smoother will also keep you fuller for longer and maintain your blood glucose levels.
Collagen for Gut Health
The cells that line the digestive tract are also held together by collagen. When the gut becomes permeated or ‘leaky’ it becomes ineffective at absorbing nutrients and prone to inflammation and irritation.
Including collagen in your diet is simple. Eat animal protein. Collagen is found abundantly in bone broth, gelatin, eggs, chicken and meat.
Another great benefit of collagen? Less joint pain. It seems that a dose of collagen and a good night sleep on a Sealy could be the perfect recipe for waking up pain-free. Besides who doesn’t want to bounce out of bed each day?
Do you dabble with collagen to improve your skin, muscle and gut health? We would love to hear more about your experience
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