The Fountain of Youth is just a myth, but promoting collagen products and collagen supplements may be what truly makes the “dream of eternal youth”.
There are many forms and types of collagen products out there, be it pills, powders, liquids or gums, and of course their promotional campaigns include promises of better skin and nails, and that collagen is the key to staying young. not to mention its gut health benefits.
But, according to a report published by the site CNETIt is important to understand what collagen is and its role in the body before getting carried away or respond to these advertisements, especially since experts recommend that it is best for you to get collagen from the foods you eat.
Collagen and its benefits
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and therefore is somewhat important in maintaining bodily functions. Dietitian and nutrition expert Tony Castillo explains that the best way to think of collagen is as “glue to hold things together.” It is the main building block of tendons, ligaments, bones, muscles and skin. It also helps your body rebuild after injuries, especially in sites like tendons, ligaments, and muscles, which means collagen helps hold your body together.
The body produces collagen by combining amino acids. The process also uses vitamin C, zinc and copper, so natural collagen production can be boosted by following a balanced diet.
expressive
Adequate levels of collagen
As we age, our bodies naturally begin to produce less collagen. Although wrinkles and aches are part of the aging process, one may wonder if low collagen is the cause of the diseases of aging.
Castillo says the following signs indicate a person may have low collagen levels:
• Lack of flexibility of ligaments and tendons
• Wrinkles on the skin
Muscle weakness
• Damage to cartilage or joint pain
Digestive problems caused by thinning of the digestive tract lining
Of course, if any physical symptoms significantly affect the quality of life, a person will need to see a doctor. But if he just wants smoother skin and a little activity in his step of him, it may be worth looking at how to boost his collagen levels.
Foods rich in collagen
Collagen supplements and skin treatments
While one can certainly attempt to produce more collagen naturally, at this point some may be wondering if modern collagen supplements and skin treatments really work. The answer, perhaps unsatisfactory, is that collagen supplementation somehow achieves results.
Studies have found that collagen supplements can help with wound healing and skin aging, as well as increase skin elasticity and hydration, says Castillo. But these are only preliminary results, which means that more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness. Castillo cautioned in this context to be careful when searching online, explaining that many studies are done by companies that make collagen supplements, so not many of them may be accurate.
On the other hand, Castillo sees no compelling reason to invest in skin treatments designed to increase collagen. These treatments often come with a high price tag, and most of the supporting research is inconclusive at best. Explain that there are some treatments worth trying, as studies have shown that microneedling (which is said to increase collagen) can treat facial scars and stretch marks, while ultrasound therapy appears to be somewhat effective for tightening and lifting facial muscles. However, the research results are not definitive or conclusive, so he must bear in mind that similar results can be obtained from natural sources and this research is far from definitive.
Increase collagen naturally
A more natural approach can certainly be taken to increase collagen. The most effective way is to eat a balanced diet. When the body produces collagen, it uses amino acids, vitamin C, zinc and copper. To get the amino acids you need, Castillo says you can eat eggs, bone broth, beans, and meat to get proline and glycine, in particular, and citrus, berries, and peppers to boost vitamin C. Castillo adds that eating meat, shellfish, nuts , whole grains and beans give the body adequate amounts of zinc and copper. .
Castillo advises that if only one food should be chosen to increase collagen levels, it should be bone broth, explaining that when the bones of beef, chicken or fish are cooked in water, collagen and other minerals seep into the water. providing a tasty and nutritious-rich liquid.
