An Ultimate Guide to Collagen
Collagen is the talk of the town these days, and for good reason! But what actually is it and do you really need it? We unpack the ins and outs of collagen and the key signs to look out for.
So, What is Collagen?
The term “collagen” is derived from the Greek word “Kolla,” which actually means “glue.” Collagen’s glue-like structure is essential for maintaining the strength, elasticity, and integrity of connective tissues throughout the body.
Approximately one-third of your body’s tissue is made up of collagen, and your body requires a substantial amount to support tissue healing and regeneration, as well as for growth, repair, recovery, injury recovery, illness, and overall longevity.
Types of Collagen
Our body continuously produces collagen, and to do so, it requires amino acids and protein. This is why it’s crucial to ensure you’re consuming enough high-quality protein daily, along with sufficient vitamin C, which is essential for collagen production. The interesting thing is that we’re not just talking about one type of collagen in your body – we actually have 28 different types. The three main ones are type 1, type 2 and type 3.
– Type 1 collagen is the most abundant in the body and supports the structure of skin, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissues.
– Type 2 collagen is primarily found in cartilage, where it aids joint health by cushioning bones and promoting smooth movement.
– Type 3 collagen, often found alongside type 1, supports skin health and elasticity, and plays a role in maintaining skin’s youthful appearance by contributing to collagen synthesis.
A supplement we hold in store called ‘Collagen Clinical’ by Orthoplex combines four collagen peptides that are specifically designed to comprehensively support the body’s collagen rich tissues including the tendons, ligaments, skin, bone and joint cartilage. It’s a great option for anyone looking to support collagen formation and skin health.
What is Collagen Used for?
Aside from collagens’ super power in connective tissue strength and flexibility making it a superb choice for injury recovery, tendons, ligaments and joint health, it actually shines its light in many other areas
Collagen for pre-, post- and menopausal bone density and integrity
During menopause, estrogen levels drop triggering a loss of bone density and strength. Collagen is a major influence in bone mass and can help mitigate the effects of this as the collagen peptides keep bones strong by increasing bone mineral density. It’s a great supportive choice if you’re navigating moving into this period of your life
Collagen for skin elasticity and hydration
As collagen influences the structural and tissue-building components of skin formation, it’s a no-brainer that it’s a must for skin elasticity, as well as an essential protein in the aging process. As well as this, collagen enhances the moisture content and elasticity of the skin, aiding in a reduction of wrinkling and roughness. No wonder the beauty industry is all about Collagen these days
Collagen for Gut Health
Collagen is essential for maintaining the integrity of the gut wall, mainly due to it containing large amounts of amino acids such as glutamine, glycine and proline. These aid in the protection and repair of the gut barrier and help to improve digestive function.
If you’re wanting further support and unsure whether Collagen is the right choice for you – contact us on 02 4961 4075 to book in with one of our Naturopaths today! Don’t forget we also offer a complementary 15 minute phone call with any of our Naturopaths if you’d like to have a chat about further benefits of Collagen and/or other supplements that could support you where you’re at. Give us a call on 4961 4075, or book online here.
