Today we will talk about the purpose and sources of collagen, one of the most important proteins in the body.
In this article, we will introduce the protein called collagen and inform you about its purpose, sources and other related facts. It is one of the most abundant proteins in the human body as it is a component of many of our tissues.
What is collagen?
Collagen is a fundamental component of the human body. It is a protein and represents about a quarter of the total proteins in the body. So it is the most important protein.
It is found in many tissues such as skin, cartilage, bones, ligaments, muscles and tendons . It forms very resistant and flexible fibers whose function is to provide flexibility, support and resistance to the tissues.
Since it is a very important substance for our body and is present in many tissues, it is very important that this protein is present in sufficient and constant amounts. When this substance is not present in our body in sufficient amounts, all the tissues it forms cannot perform their functions properly.
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What are the sources of collagen?
Sources of collagen include many foods, most of which are of animal origin, especially meat. There are other foods that, although they are not sources of collagen, contain substances that help support the synthesis of this protein in the human body. Some of them are:
- Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids: Found primarily in nuts and fish such as salmon, fatty acids are involved in hormonal regulation that allows the body to produce collagen.
- Vitamin A:Found in vegetables such as carrots and melons. Some amount of vitamin A is necessary for the body to produce collagen smoothly.
- Vitamin C: Found in citrus fruits, strawberries, and some other vegetables. They destroy compounds that destroy this protein.
Animal products are rich in collagen, and various plant foods have substances that stimulate collagen production.
What changes as we age?
From around the age of 30, the body gradually loses its ability to produce collagen. Collagen continues to be produced, but in increasingly smaller amounts.
When this production decreases, all the tissues it forms begin to lose their functionality. Skin loses its elasticity and wrinkles appear. Hair and nails also become more brittle. Joint pain and muscle pain can also occur with movement.
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Supplements as a source of collagen
As we mentioned earlier, maintaining at least some amount of this protein in the body is necessary for it to function properly. However, there are times when this is not naturally possible.
In some cases, such as when the body’s production decreases and professional sports are involved, the amount of collagen is not sufficient. In these cases, the person may need to take collagen supplements.
This supplement is hydrolyzed collagen and anyone can add it to their diet . However, it is always best to consult a professional as most of the time supplements are not actually necessary.
Collagen can be included in the diet as a supplement in its hydrolyzed form.
Briefly
Collagen is a substance necessary for the normal functioning of many parts of the body. Its production decreases with age and we need to maintain an adequate diet, accompanied by collagen supplements if necessary.
A medical consultation will always be necessary to find out if you should include the hydrolyzed form of this protein in your diet. Not everyone ages the same way and therefore this supplement is not necessary for every person.
