Collagen, What exactly is it and why do we need it?

Our bodies contain more of this Collagen protein than any other protein.
It provides structure to your skin and helps your blood clot.
It has gained popularity as a nutritional supplement and ingredient in shampoos and body lotions. Collagen accounts for about a third of your body's protein composition.

Collagen is one of the major building blocks of skin, bones, muscles, ligaments and tendons. Collagen is found in many other parts of the body, including teeth, blood vessels & corneas. You can think of Collagen as the 'glue' that holds your body together.  Below is an example of what collagen looks like

WHAT DOES COLLAGEN DO IN YOUR BODY?

Although there are more than 16 types of collagen, there are only 4 main types used in your body and they are called type I, II, III & IV Trusted Source.

• Type I: This accounts for 90% of your body’s collagen and consists of densely packed fibres. this is what provides structure to skin, bones, tendons, connective tissues, cartilage and teeth.
• Type II: Is made of more loosely packed fibres and is found in elastic parts like cartilage which cushions joints.
• Type III: Supports the structure of muscles, organs, and arteries.
• Type IV: Helps with filtration and is found in layers of your skin.

As we age past our mid 20's your body produces less and less Collagen and of a lower quality. As they say 'Old age doesn't come by itself!'

One of the first major visible signs of losing collagen is in your skin, which becomes less firm and supple. Your cartilage also weakens as you get older.

Nutrients your body uses that produce collagen

Your body makes collagen by using Vitamin C and combining glycine and proline (two amino acids).

You may be able to help your body produce collagen by making sure you get plenty of the following:

• Vitamin C
• Proline
• Glycine
• Copper (Large amounts are found in sesame seeds, cocoa powder, cashews, and lentils)

Your body also needs high quality protein that contains the amino acids needed to make new proteins. This is where a protein supplement like GelPro Peptipro Collagen Hydrolysate can really help out.

How can you damage your collagen

Collagen can be destroyed or eaten away by the following collagen destroying factors:-

• Too much sun, UV radiation can hamper and even reduce collagen production. 
• Refined Carbohydrates and Sugar interferes with collagen’s ability to repair itself. 
• Smoking,  seriously reduces collagen production and can impair wound healing and increase wrinkled skinTrusted Source.

Note: Lupus and  some other autoimmune disorders can also damage collagen

• Beef (1)
• Marine (3)