My Natural Health Blog

Collagen is a structural protein, and did you know it is one of the most abundant proteins in the human body? It makes up approximately 30% of the protein found in our connective tissue and can be likened to the glue or building blocks which help grow a strong healthy body and hold it together. Collagen is found in many tissues including skin, hair, nails, muscles, tendons, ligaments and bones and it is very important structurally to strengthen and support the body.

Collagen is made up of amino acids, nine of which are essential and cannot be made by the body, therefore they must be acquired through diet. Two amino acids especially; lysine and proline, work together with Vitamin C and play a significant role in assisting collagen production. There are many types of Collagen, but 80-90% belong to type I, II or III. Type I & III Collagen have an affinity for most of the body - hair, skin, nails, muscles, tendons and bones; but Type II Collagen is specific for nourishing joint cartilage.

Unfortunately our bodys natural Collagen begins to decline as we get older, and this usually results in signs of ageing, including loose or sagging skin, brittle hair, wrinkles, sore joints and more tendon and ligament injuries.

If you are concerned at all about those little tell-tale signs, there are some excellent nutrients which can really boost your Collagen levels. These can help to negate the signs of ageing by feeding and nourishing our connective tissue and most importantly, can help us to remain young, hydrated and flexible!

Ideally, ensure you consume a healthy and wholefood diet, but if you feel you need to take supplements as well, there are good quality Collagen liquids or tablets readily available. You may also want to consider Pro Collagen nutrients which provide the body with important raw materials from which Collagen can be made.

Wholefoods which are rich in pro collagen nutrients include dark leafy greens (lutein and vitamin C) blackcurrants, blueberries, blackberries, cherries (a rich source of Anthocyanins and vitamin C) red, orange and yellow vegetables and fruits (lycopene and vitamin A) and also bone broths, to name a few.

There is also a specific nutrient called Lipowheat which is fairly is new on the block, it has been shown to contain lipids (or fats) which make up 35-40% of the ‘intercellular cement’ which holds cells together. Studies have shown this helps the skin to retain moisture and helps prevent dehydration. It has also been clinically proven to improve skin texture, resulting in smoother softer skin, and helps to reduce visible signs of ageing.

Unfortunately there are a few things which will speed up the breakdown of collagen in the skin; constant exposure to the sun, pollution, smoking, alcohol, and a high sugar diet just to mention a few. Ideally we should try to avoid or limit exposure to these as much as we can. Being conscious of eating a more wholefood based diet rich in variety each day can only assist in helping to slow the ageing process.

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