Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, making up about 30% of total protein. It is found in many tissues throughout the body, including the skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. It provides structural support, strength, and elasticity to these tissues, playing a crucial role in their function and integrity.
Collagen is a fibrous protein that forms a strong, stable network of fibres. This network gives tissues their structure and shape. It is made up of amino acids, including glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, which are arranged in a unique triple helix structure. This structure is what gives collagen its strength and stability.
There are several types of Collagen each with specific functions and distribution in the body:
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Type I Collagen is found in the skin, tendons, ligaments, bones, and other connective tissues. It provides strength and resilience to these tissues and is responsible for maintaining their structural integrity.
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Type II is primarily found in cartilage, which cushions and protects joints. It helps maintain the structure and elasticity of cartilage, allowing for smooth joint movement.
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Type III is commonly found in blood vessels, skin, and internal organs. It works in conjunction with type I collagen to provide structural support and flexibility to these tissues.
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Other Types: There are several other types, such as type IV, type V, and type X, each with specific roles in various tissues in the body.
Collagen plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and structure of various tissues, particularly the skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments.
Why Do We Need Collagen Supplements?
Our bodies have the ability to produce collagen naturally, this process gradually diminishes as we age. Factors such as exposure to harmful UV rays, poor nutrition, smoking, and certain medical conditions can further impact production. As production declines, it can lead to visible signs of ageing, such as wrinkles, sagging skin, and joint stiffness.
Great Alternatives to Collagen Complex Supplements
There are many reasons why someone may want an alternative option. Some individuals may not want to consume supplemental or powder forms and would prefer to increase the amount of Collagen in their diet through natural sources.
As the majority of natural sources and dietary supplements are derived from animal sources such as chicken or fish, vegans and vegetarians must opt for something else.
When it comes to alternative options, there are several natural and effective alternatives that can promote skin and bone health and support production. Let's explore some of these alternatives:
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, which contributes to the normal function of blood vessels, bones, cartilage, teeth, gums and skin. It is an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from oxidative stress and promotes production. Including vitamin C-rich foods in your diet, such as citrus fruits, berries, and leafy greens, can support healthy skin and stimulate formation.
Bone broth is rich in amino acids, including proline and glycine, which are essential for production. Consuming bone broth regularly can provide the necessary building blocks for synthesis and support skin health. Plant-based protein sources like beans, lentils, quinoa, and hemp seeds can provide these amino acids.
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Silica is a trace mineral that helps maintain the structural integrity of the skin. It promotes formation, improves skin elasticity, and reduces the signs of ageing. Silica can be found in foods like cucumbers, bell peppers, oats, and leafy greens.
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Omega 3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as chia seeds and walnuts, have anti-inflammatory properties that can support skin health. They help maintain the integrity of the skin barrier, enhance hydration and support production.
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Plant-Based Collagen Boosters: Certain plants contain nutrients that can help boost production. For example, foods rich in sulphur, like garlic, onions, and cruciferous vegetables, provide the necessary components for synthesis. Additionally, foods high in anthocyanins, such as blueberries, blackberries, and cherries, can support formation and protect against degradation.
Plant extracts or herbal extracts like Aloe vera, Gotu Kola, and Ginseng have been shown to promote synthesis and improve skin elasticity. Additionally, marine collagen peptides derived from fish scales or algae offer a plant-based alternative to animal-derived collagen complexes.
6. Green Tea is packed with antioxidants called catechins, which help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. It also supports synthesis and promotes overall skin health. Drinking green tea regularly or using green tea extract in skin care products can provide these benefits.
7. Lifestyle Factors: In addition to external treatments, lifestyle factors can significantly impact collagen health. Avoiding excessive sun exposure, reducing stress levels, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy sleep routine all contribute to overall skin health and production. Sun protection is crucial as UV radiation can damage collagen fibres and accelerates skin ageing.
8. Using moisturizers and serums that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, and retinol can help improve skin hydration, stimulate production, and minimise the appearance of wrinkles.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance in our bodies that helps retain moisture and promote skin hydration. Hyaluronic acid focuses on maintaining optimal moisture levels in the skin. By binding water molecules, it enhances skin elasticity, minimises the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and supports overall skin health.
Retinoids, derivatives of vitamin A, have been extensively studied for their anti-ageing properties. They work by stimulating production, improving skin cell turnover and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Topical retinoid creams or prescription-strength retinoids can be highly effective in rejuvenating the skin, improving its texture and tone, and promoting synthesis.
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that serve as building blocks for proteins, including collagen. By topically applying peptides, you can stimulate production, resulting in improved skin elasticity and firmness. Peptide-based skincare products have gained popularity for their ability to support natural synthesis and address signs of ageing.
While these alternative options can support production and skin health, the results may vary from person to person. It's always a good idea to consult with a professional to determine the best approach for your specific needs and goals.
Vegan Collagen Supplements
Vegan alternatives are typically referred to as "collagen builders or boosters." These products aim to support the body's natural production rather than directly providing collagen from animal sources.
While vegan alternatives to collagen may help support collagen production, they may not have the same benefits as animal-derived collagen. The body's natural collagen synthesis process is complex, and external factors can affect production.
Additionally, the scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of vegan collagen alternatives is limited, and more research is needed to fully understand their impact.
HealthAid Collagen Complex contains the most bioavailable form of hydrolysed Collagen. It also contains Vitamin C, which contributes to formation, which supports the normal function of bones, cartilage and teeth. Additional ingredients include Silica, which helps in strengthening the body's connective tissue and Vitamin E and Beta-Carotene, which provide protection against oxidative damage (please note: not suitable for vegans and vegetarians).
Related Articles
- Is Vitamin D3 Suitable for Vegans and Vegetarians | HealthAid
- Does Collagen Benefit Our Joints – HealthAid
Sources
- Best Collagen-Rich Foods and Collagen-Boosting Foods - Dr. Axe (draxe.com)
- Health Benefits of Collagen: Pros, Cons, and More (healthline.com)
- A Collagen Supplement Improves Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Roughness, and Density: Results of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Blind Study - PubMed (nih.gov)
- Image by senivpetro on Freepik Image by Freepik
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