The collagen
Here are some of the main areas of the body affected by collagen:
- The skin.
- Legs and down.
- Hair and nails.
- Stomach and intestines.
- Wound healing.
- Muscles and body structure.
Collagen – age, health and beauty
Collagen production naturally declines with age, which can lead to various age-related problems, including skin aging and decreased bone and joint health.
Therefore, collagen supplements have become increasingly popular as a method to promote health and beauty. These supplements often contain hydrolyzed, which is a form of collagen that is easier for the body to absorb.
The body's natural collagen production declines with age
The body's natural production of collagen decreases with age. This decreased collagen production and collagen quality is one of the factors that contribute to the signs of aging, including wrinkles and laxity of the skin, decreased bone mass and joint problems.
Different types of collagen
There are several different types of collagen that occur in the human body. Each has its own specific functions and occurrence in different tissues and organs.
The most common types of collagen are:
- Type 1 collagen: This is the most common type of collagen in the body and is found in bones, skin, tendons, ligaments and organs such as the intestines. Type 1 collagen provides structure and strength to tissues, and is particularly important for bone health.
- Type 2 collagen: This type of collagen is mainly found in cartilage tissue and is necessary to maintain joint function and flexibility. It is important to support joint and cartilage health.
- Type 3 collagen: Type 3 is found in skin, blood vessels and internal organs such as lungs and liver. It supports the structure and elasticity of these tissues.
- Type 4 collagen: Type 4 collagen is an important component of the basement membrane, a part of most tissues and organs that separates the epithelium from the underlying connective tissue. It is essential to maintain the barrier function of these membranes.
- Type 5 collagen: Type 5 collagen is found in many different tissues, including skin, tendons and placenta. It plays a role in supporting and giving structure to these tissues.
- Type 6 collagen: This type is found in bone cartilage and is particularly important for bone development, and for skeletal growth.
Collagen through food
Foods that boost the body's collagen levels:
- Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C: Citrus fruits, peppers, kiwi, and strawberries.
- Berries : Blueberries, raspberries and blackcurrants.
- Chicken and fish: Good sources of amino acids needed for collagen production.
- Nuts and seeds: Contains zinc and antioxidants that can support collagen production.
- Green leafy vegetables : Are rich in silicon which is linked to collagen production
Including these foods in your diet can help support your body's natural production of collagen.
Learn more
Do you want to learn more about collagen and other vitamins? In our article bank, you can learn more about everything related to vitamins, minerals, hormones and deficiencies.
Collagen is found naturally in the body and is an important component in several different tissues and organs. Collagen is a protein produced by the body itself.
Collagen is produced naturally by the body's cells, especially fibroblasts, which are responsible for producing extracellular matrix, including collagen.
Collagen has several important functions and is good for the body's health and well-being - among other things for skin health, bone health, joint health, hair and nail health, and muscle structure.
Collagen supplements are generally considered safe for most people when taken in recommended doses. However, as with all dietary supplements, there is a possibility of side effects in some individuals. Possible side effects from collagen are stomach upset and allergic reactions.