Collagen: Is It A Biohacker's Weapon for Longevity?

Most of us know collagen from those fancy skincare ads or the latest trendy smoothies. And if you’ve ever wondered why some people seem to age so gracefully, you might have heard about how certain cultures eat collagen-rich foods. What if we tell you collagen does more than keep our skin looking good?

What is Collagen?

Think of collagen as the body’s super-strong glue. It's the most abundant fibrillar protein in our bodies. It keeps everything together, from our skin and bones to our muscles and tendons. Collagen also plays a role in the function of our cells. Plus, it keeps our tissues firm and flexible.

There are different types of collagen:

• Type I: As the most abundant type in your body, it’s main purpose is for elasticity and strength of our skin, hair, nails, bones, and tendons.
• Type II: This type is found in cartilage for joint health and flexibility. It cushions your joints, so it moves smoothly. 
• Type III: Working with Type I, this type provides support and elasticity. It is commonly found in your skin, muscles, and blood vessels.
• Type IV: This is a type of extracellular matrix that separates tissues to filter and support your organs.
• Type V: It contributes to the hair and some layers of the skin. This type is also found in the cornea of the eye.
• Type X: This is needed for the formation and repair of the bones.

More than the Skin: Collagen’s Incredible Benefits

• Collagen for the Skin: We all know about beauty industry’s use of collagen. Not only does it make our skin look plump and youthful. It also helps our hair stay strong and shiny. And good skin health is part of overall cell health, too. Think of it as a strong barrier that keeps bad stuff out. In fact, collagen peptides are becoming popular for skin care. It’s because they're absorbed by the body easily and fight inflammation and aging. Collagen is popular in the cosmetic industry because it helps fight signs of aging. This is the reason why we see more skincare creams, supplements, and beauty treatments that contain collagen in the market and the beauty industry.

• Collagen for the Joints and Muscles: Collagen keeps our joints and muscles flexible and strong. This is especially important is for staying active and fit. And when our muscles are working well, our cells are using energy efficiently. Plus, collagen for bone health keeps our bones dense and strong. As we age, we are more likely to develop joint disorders like osteoarthritis. A 2023 study shows that certain collagen peptides help support cartilage health and reduce joint pain. 

• Collagen for Gut Health: Collagen is also good for our gut. It is important for keeping the lining of our intestines healthy. This helps absorbing nutrients from food better and keeps our immune system strong. When your gut is healthy, you have less inflammation.

• Collagen vs Diseases: There are some studies that suggest collagen might help protect your body from the risks of health diseases. While it's not magic, it plays a role in keeping our bodies running smoothly. This is where collagen medicine and collagen health come into play.

What Messes with Our Collagen?

Unfortunately, our bodies don’t produce as much collagen as we age. A poor diet, not enough exercise, stress, and too much exposure to the sun slow down collagen production. When your collagen levels drop, you start to see wrinkles, joints get creaky, and your overall cell energy becomes affected.

How to Get More Collagen?

1. Eat a Collagen-Rich Diet

Bone broth is a common example of a collagen-rich food. It is made by simmering bones for hours to extract all that good stuff. Foods rich in vitamin C, like oranges and berries, also help our bodies make collagen. Prioritizing natural collagen from whole food sources should always be the priority.

Several high-protein foods are also believed to boost the production of collagen in your body. Foods like chicken, fish, and eggs have amino acids that make glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline for collagen.

2. Collagen Supplements

Collagen also comes in the form of powders, pills, and even gummies. These are a convenient way to get extra collagen, especially if you’re not getting enough from your diet. In fact, a study found that taking oral hydrolyzed collagen can improve skin hydration and elasticity.

However, these supplements are not yet regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). So, it’s important to choose from a reputable brand. When looking at the benefits of collagen supplements, be sure to consider what type of collagen you are purchasing.

3. Do Collagen-Friendly Lifestyle Habits

Exercise boosts collagen production and blood flow. A good night's sleep allows for collagen repair. Reducing stress also stops cortisol from breaking down collagen.

4. Support Your Gut

When your gut is healthy, you absorb nutrients from food better for collagen production. Consume probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut to support a balanced gut. A healthy gut also lessens inflammation.

Start Your Collagen Action Plan

The health benefits of collagen go far beyond beauty and skin health. It also supports the health of our cells, making us live longer and healthier. From supporting supple skin and strong joints to nurturing a healthy gut, collagen is a protein you need for longevity. 

If you're feeling stressed and not getting enough sleep or exercise, your body makes less collagen. To help you with this, eat foods rich in collagen, maintain healthy habits, and consider taking collagen supplements. Remember, investing in collagen is investing in a more vibrant and resilient you.

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