Collagen- Skin's Bestie!

Collagen is the most important factor if we are talking about skin.

The word Collagen is arrived from the Greek word, “kolla”, which means, glue, that holds the skin/cells tissues together, which is why 30% of the total protein in our body is collagen.

Collagen is a kind of protein which makes the skin look supple and smooth. If the body produces good amount of collagen, the skin looks magnificent! And it improves the firmness and elasticity of the skin.

It is basically the main protein that makes up the connective tissue like muscles, joints, ligaments, and skin.

Collagen is concentrated in the Extracellular Matrix (ECM), which supports the cells of every single tissue in our body. ECM is a three-dimensional network of proteins that supports and provides structure to cells.

In mid 20s or after turning 30, body stops producing the sufficient amount of collagen which is needed to build and connect the skin tissues.

The collagen level of production decreases by 1.5% by the age of 20, 25% by the age of 40 and 50 % by the age of 60. This is why collagen support in our body is so essential.

Collagen presence is required to help the skin remain young and wrinkle-free.

Where it is found?

Collagen is found on the second layer of the skin known as derma layer. This makes skin cells strong, bouncy and elastic. This is why it is so important to support our bodies to prevent premature aging and age with grace.

Collagen benefits to skin:

????Improves skin elasticity

????Boosts skin hydration

????Decreases the appearance of cellulite

????Lessens the roughness of the skin

????Increases the amount of collagen

????Prevents early sign of aging

????Reduces wrinkles

????Prevents breakdown of collagen

Foods to boost collagen production to maintain a beautiful skin and healthy body:

Citrus Fruits:

Citrus fruits like orange, grapefruit, lemons are high in Vitamin C which strengthens the collagen production. It is important for the formation and growth of skin tissues for the synthesis of collagen.

Egg Whites:

Collagen need large amount of proline and amino acids. Egg whites contain maximum amount of essential amino acids which is needed to build the new healthier tissues.

Legumes, chickpeas, lentils:

Legumes contain a vitamin called, ‘Thiamine’ that is very important for the production of collagen. Chickpeas are filled with protein, vitamins C and A.

Fish:

Fish like tuna/salmon are rich in marine collagen which is the answer to a smoother skin. Consumption of marine collagen will allow the skin cells to renew and repair.

Habits that inhibit collagen production:

·??????Aging

·??????Smoking

·??????High sugar diet

·??????High doses of caffeine

·??????Sedentary lifestyle

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Research says that, intake of much caffeine can slow down the rate of producing collagen. Once the collagen drops, the skin gets saggy and wrinkles appear.

The minimum daily recommended amount of collagen for a healthy lifestyle is 5mg and 10-15mg for improved hair, skin and nails.

There are so many collagen creams and supplements available to increase the level of production. The goal of these are to stop the degradation of collagen in body.

This will not only help the outer appearance but can also improve the inner structure.

Collagen is a requisite protein which is necessary for normal body functions. It does wonders by providing a beautiful and resilient skin.

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