Collagen is also known as the elixir of youth. This is because it has a salutary effect on our skin. It not only reduces wrinkles, but also delays the ageing process. Unfortunately, as we age, it starts to become scarce in our body. This is why it is so important to provide it with an adequate diet. Which products contain the most collagen? Here are some suggestions!
- Collagen is a protein that is not only responsible for the beautiful appearance of our skin, but also influences the condition of our joints, cartilage or immune system
- After the age of 26, the production of collagen in our body slows down. Therefore, this is a good time to start supplying it in the form of cosmetics, supplements and an appropriate diet.
- Foods rich in collagen usually also contain a lot of fat, so they cannot be eaten too often
- Alternatively, products containing vitamins that stimulate collagen production can be used
Collagen – properties and functions
Collagen is a protein that builds connective tissue. As we have already mentioned, it has a huge impact on the appearance of our skin. In addition to this, it also has other important functions. Among other things, collagen influences the proper functioning of joints and cartilage. It also supports our immune system.
Research has proven that after the age of 26, collagen production in our body starts to slow down. This can cause problems with the spine and joints. These changes can also be seen in our skin. It becomes less moisturised and elastic. We also notice the first wrinkles, discolouration and cellulite. Changes can also be seen in our hair and nails, which become weak and brittle. This is why it is so important to take action and supply our body with collagen.
The best sources of collagen
How can we supply collagen to our body? First of all, in the form of cosmetics that contain it. We can also buy collagen in capsules or powder and consume it daily as a food supplement.
All this, of course, has a very good effect on our body. However, it may not be enough. Therefore, it is worth leaning into your diet and including products rich in this protein. Where can we find the most of it?
Here are some products:
- jellies – whether fruit, vegetable, meat or fish,
- pork knuckle,
- offal,
- food gelatine,
- chicken feet,
- shark cartilage.
Unfortunately, all these products are of animal origin and contain significant amounts of fat. Therefore, we should not eat them too often. This can cause, among other things, problems with excessively high cholesterol. This in turn leads to diseases such as atherosclerosis.
So how can we reconcile good looks and good health? There are ways. It turns out that we do not necessarily have to consume large quantities of products rich in collagen to enjoy resilient and moisturised skin again. All we need to do is include foods in our diet that naturally support the production of this protein. This is primarily about products that contain the following vitamins:
- vitamin A – this has a beneficial effect on the elasticity of our skin. It also counteracts the appearance of wrinkles. It can be found in products such as carrots, spinach, pumpkin, eggs, tomatoes, liver and salmon;
- vitamin C – supports the synthesis of collagen, thus delaying the skin ageing process. In addition, it cleanses our body of toxins. This has a positive effect on the overall appearance of our complexion. Vitamin C is mainly found in citrus fruits, peppers, all kinds of pickles and parsley;
- Vitamin E – also known as the vitamin of youth. It not only moisturises the skin, but also protects it from the harmful effects of UV radiation. It can be found in vegetable oils, eggs, wheat germ, avocados and cereals, among others;
- flavonoids – these prevent the breakdown of collagen. They can be found in green tea, blueberries, chokeberries, beetroot, red pepper and tomatoes.
Supplements for collagen deficiency
The first advantage of using supplements is that they can partially replace natural collagen. Sonya Angelone of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in San Francisco, told everydayhealth.com that collagen makes up as much as one-third of the body’s protein. Supplements allow you to replace the loss of it, which will not only benefit your complexion, but the overall functioning of your body.
On the food supplement market there are products with fish, pork, bovine or poultry collagen. According to specialists, fish collagen has the most similar structure to human collagen.
Collagen an easily digestible protein
Collagen is an easily digestible protein that does not cause belching or abdominal pain, which can happen after eating chicken breast or beef also a source of protein. Supplements with collagen are hydrolysed, which is associated with easier digestion.