Collagen is a protein that is made up of specific amino acids including glycine, proline, arginine and hydroxyproline. Collagen makes up approximately 30% of the protein content in the human body however, it is found in abundance in animals. It connects and supports bodily tissues found in the skin, bones, tendons, muscles and cartilage.

Functions of Collagen Protein

Collagen performs a variety of functions such as:

• Provides support to the skin. The collagen protein fibres give the skin resistance to traction and strains. It constitutes 70% of skin mass. Collagen gives the skin strength and elasticity.
• It provides structure for fibrous tissues like tendons and ligaments.
• Collagen also plays an important function in bones. Bones are made up of a mixture of minerals called hydroxyapatite and collagen. They both work together to not only form the bone structure but also lend it flexibility and strength. According to the research study by Radiocarbon Laboratory, about 30% of bones are made up of organic materials and out of which 95% is collagen.
• Collagen makes up the walls of arteries, veins and capillaries of the body giving vessels a proper and a well defined structure and flexibility needed to effectively pump and transport blood throughout the body.

Age Triggers Collagen Protein Deficiency

As you age, collagen production in the body begins to decrease. This starts as soon as you hit 25. Decrease in collagen also slows down your metabolism rate. The decrease in collagen production affects skin volume and its physical properties too. Ageing also changes the structure of collagen found in the body. Young skin has an organised pattern whereas in older skin it becomes thick fibrils arranged in disorganised bundles.

As collagen decreases in the body with age, it creates the following health problems:

• Wrinkles
• Fine lines
• Skin becomes saggy
• Leads to hair loss,
• Grey hair
• High blood pressure
• Atherosclerosis
• Arthritis
• Farsightedness

How to Meet the Body’s Collagen Needs?

The best way to stimulate collagen synthesis is to consume it in the form of supplements. Taking high quality collagen supplements helps restore aged collagen to its former state. It helps improves your skin’s appearance and bone/blood vessel health. It is also found to promote anti-ageing effects like joint pain and hair growth.