Lego of the human body. 😄
What is collagen?
Collagen is a protein found throughout the body.
It is produced by cells called fibroblasts.
It is the main component of the body’s connective tissues:
- Skin.
- Bones.
- Ligaments.
- Tendons.
- Cartilage.
On average, it represents 31% of the protein mass, so about 5% of our total mass. That’s how essential collagen is!
Collagen composition
The composition of collagen varies according to the type of tissue.
It consists of amino acids that intertwine to form strong fibers, mainly :
- Glycine.
- Arginine.
- Proline.
- Alanine.
- Lysine.
- Glutamic acid.
- Serine.
- Valine.
- Histidine.
What is it for?
The different types of collagens have several functions in the body:
- Maintain the elasticity of the skin and blood vessels.
- Regenerate tissues.
- Compose the connective tissue.
- Strengthen muscles, skin, tendons and ligaments.
- Accelerate the healing of tissues.
- Maintain balance throughout the body.
- Confer resistance to bones.
- Support the immune system.
- Protect organs.
- Reduce inflammation.
- Support cell growth.
Symptoms
When the body is no longer able to produce collagen in sufficient quantity and quality, the following symptoms can occur
- Loose skin.
- Joint pain.
- Wrinkles.
- Fragile bones.
- Dental problems.
- Hair loss.
- Sleep disorders.
Causes
Several factors can be involved:
- Natural aging.
- Inadequate diet.
- Alcohol.
- Exposure to contaminants, especially toxic ingredients in cosmetics.
- Some diseases.
- Stress.
- Smoking.
- Some medications.
How to stimulate collagen production?
Fortunately, there are some natural remedies to jumpstart the collagen factory.
I can use the felt sense to find out which ones from the list below.
Adequate food
The body must be provided with the specific amino acids necessary for the synthesis of new collagen fibers.
The following foods are recommended for regular consumption:
- Seafood.
- Green cabbage.
- Eggs.
- Baobab fruit.
- Bone broth.
- Zucchini.
- Nuts.
- Fish.
- Strawberries.
- Garlic.
- Broccoli.
- Bell pepper.
- Onions.
- Raspberry.
- Hazelnuts.
- Kidney beans.
- Sunflower seeds.
The following supplements may also help:
- Collagen peptides (favor marine collagen).
- Plant collagen.
- Zinc citrate.
- Phospholipids.
- Vitamins D and E.
- Copper.
- Selenium.
- Silicon.
- Ashwagandha.
- Iron.
- Keratin.
- Glycine.
- Bakuchiol.
- Green tea.
Emotions
Some emotional wounds can slow down collagen synthesis.
Physical symptoms are an invitation to explore myself emotionally.
I discover how to deal with my emotions.
Massage
Regular massages allow for better irrigation of the connective tissue.
The production of collagen is stimulated by the supply of nutrients.
Thus, my body is strengthened.
Sun
Moderate and regular exposure to the sun also promotes healthy collagen:
- Vitamin D intake.
- Action of UVB rays on collagen synthesis.
- Increase in cell energy.
Sport
Regular exercise is essential.
The whole body benefits from the increased blood and energy circulation.
Conclusion
What does collagen do?
It is a material that my body manufactures and uses to build bones, muscles and skin.
Sometimes, some factors block its synthesis.
Fortunately, with a few adjustments, it is possible to stimulate collagen production again.