Natural sources of collagen

What is collagen? What is the function of collagen in the body? What products that contain collagen can we buy in the grocery store?

All about collagen

Collagen is a protein that occurs naturally. It is very important for human health. Our body produces collagen. There are four basic types of collagen. Type I collagen is present in our skin, ligaments and bones. The presence of collagen provides firmness, elasticity and tensile strength. Collagen molecules bind to elastin to form collagen bundles that give shape and elasticity to the skin. As a result of the lack of collagen, the skin weakens and wrinkles may appear.

Factors causing loss of collagen

The main cause of the decline in collagen content is the natural aging process. From the age of 25, the body loses 1.5% of its collagen per year. Before we reach 45, one third of the collagen will be lost. There are additional factors that contribute to lowering collagen levels. Cigarette smoking, unhealthy diet low in micronutrients, unhealthy and processed foods containing preservatives and lack of regular exercise are just some of the factors that accelerate collagen loss.

People who want to look younger are constantly looking for ways to regenerate collagen. Many techniques have been developed that help to supplement collagen. We can help the body to naturally produce collagen. Some skin care products, such as anti-wrinkle creams, actually contain collagen and elastin.

Food studies show that different natural products can provide the essential ingredients that enhance collagen production in our body. Among the leading substances and their sources are the following:

Hyaluronic acid. The richest source of hyaluronic acid is seaweed, which has been used in Japan for centuries. Hyaluronic acid is involved in combining collagen with elastin and forming collagen bundles. It is also responsible for the repair and replacement of damaged and dead collagen cells.

Coenzyme Q10. Its rich source is raw meat, especially heart, kidney, liver and spleen. It is also found in nuts and sprouts of wheat. Coenzyme Q10 helps increase collagen production inside our body.

Manuka Honey. This is a unique honey that is produced only in New Zealand. Manuka Honey contains a substance called methylglinoxal which has the capacity to strengthen collagen connections. Manuka honey stimulates the production of collagen and rejuvenates the skin.

Genistein. It can be found abundantly in soy products. It is isoflavone, which is a strong antioxidant. Genistein also slows collapse of collagen and elastin, which are responsible for the firmness of the skin. It has a strong anti-wrinkle effect.