Collagen plays a major role in maintaining the integrity of our skin, joints, and overall health. This prolific protein has recently been championed for its ability to promote healthier skin and joints, making it a fantastic addition to your healthcare routine. In this article, we’ll learn about what collagen is, its importance, and the optimal age to start supplementation to reap its benefits.
Understanding Collagen and Its Role in the Body
Collagen is a powerhouse protein, forming a major component of skin, bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It acts like glue, holding these tissues together, and is particularly useful for their strength and elasticity. In our skin, collagen contributes to firmness and suppleness. In our joints, it’s essential to keep them smooth and functioning correctly.
What Age Do You Stop Producing Collagen?
Although the body never stops producing collagen, the rate significantly decreases with age, starting in our mid-20s. Annually, we lose about 1.5% of our collagen. By the time we reach our 50s, we have lost about half of the collagen in our skin. This reduction in collagen production leads to visible ageing signs, such as wrinkles and sagging skin, and a decrease in joint mobility.
External factors, including sun exposure, smoking, and an unhealthy diet, can accelerate collagen loss – genetics also play a role in how quickly our bodies lose collagen. This gradual loss of collagen not only affects our appearance but also has implications for our joint health, potentially leading to increased discomfort and issues like osteoarthritis.
The Benefits of Collagen Supplementation
The benefits associated with collagen supplementation focus mainly on the skin and joints in the body. Research has shown that collagen supplementation could unlock several health benefits in these areas, such as:
Skin Health
Collagen’s role in maintaining skin elasticity and hydration is well-documented. Studies have shown that collagen supplements can significantly reduce wrinkles, improve skin elasticity, and increase skin hydration. These supplements provide the skin with the building blocks needed to maintain its youthful appearance and resilience against environmental factors.
Joint Health
Beyond skin, collagen’s impact on joint health is profound – especially for people with conditions that impact the joints. It helps maintain the integrity of cartilage, the protective tissue that ensures smooth joint function. As collagen levels decrease, cartilage weakens, leading to joint discomfort and disorders like osteoarthritis.
Regeneration & Replacement of Cells
Collagen serves a pivotal role in the regeneration and replacement of skin cells. It forms a strong, flexible network of fibres in our skin, promoting elasticity and strength. As the primary structural protein in the extracellular matrix of our skin, collagen also aids in the process of skin cell renewal and repair. These regenerative properties help in maintaining a youthful appearance and slowing down the ageing process.
When to Consider Taking Collagen Supplements
As the old saying goes, the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago – but the second best time is right now. Collagen supplements can definitely fall under this notion, as it not only helps combat the symptoms of ageing skin and joints but can help slow their onset!
Early Adulthood (25 – 30)
Beginning collagen supplementation around 25 years old is considered optimal for preventative care. While the body is still producing a good amount of collagen, supplementation can support and maintain these levels. This proactive approach can delay the onset of ageing signs and maintain joint health before significant natural collagen depletion occurs.
How Can I Improve My Collagen Levels?
Foods rich in vitamin C, proline, glycine, and copper are essential for collagen production.
Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining collagen levels. Our specially crafted raspberry kombucha is a perfect addition to a collagen-boosting diet. It’s packed with ingredients that support natural collagen synthesis, coupled with probiotics that promote gut health, which is also linked to skin and joint health.
