Sponsored article
Collagen is an important building block of tissues. It not only increases the firmness and elasticity of the skin, but also promotes hydration and regeneration processes. Read about the effects of collagen on your skin and how you can slow down the aging process
The word collagen is derived from the Greek “kolla”, which means, among other things, “to connect” Collagen it makes up to 30% of all proteins in the human body. It is a binder that connects skin, bones and cartilage, which is why it is so important for the proper functioning of the body
It is worth taking into account not only aesthetic aspects, but also the impact of collagen on the regenerative processes and the immune system. Collagen allows wounds to heal and broken bones to fuse together. It also makes blood vessels flexible and maintains blood circulation at an optimal level.
After 25 years of age, the body gradually loses the ability to rebuild collagen, which determines the firmness, elasticity and flexibility of the skin. Since then, everyone loses an average of about 1% of collagen per year. The most common symptoms of collagen deficiency are weakening of hair and nails, wrinkles and poorer regeneration of the body
Collagen deficiency can be seen on the face through a decrease in skin tone and sagging. Its depletion is also associated with the occurrence of discomfort in the form of joint stiffness, as well as pain in the knees, hips and wrists. The effects of collagen deficiency also include dryness and irritation of the skin, cellulite, skin discolouration and stretch marks.
As for the factors responsible for the breakdown of collagen, we can include among them: stress and fatigue (cortisol, and therefore the stress hormone has a large impact on skin condition), smoking, alcohol and sugar consumption and chronic exposure to ultraviolet radiation
It is worth giving up visits to a solarium and long exposure to the sun, as well as ensuring the regular use of sunscreen. An important factor that accelerates the appearance of adverse changes in the skin is also smoking, because the substances contained in cigarette smoke cause, inter alia, dehydration and constriction of blood vessels
As we age, the body creates less and less collagen, but by choosing the right foods, high-quality supplements and cosmetics that stimulate the reconstruction of collagen fibers, you can delay the skin aging process
A healthy lifestyle, drinking water and maintaining a balanced diet are important. It is important to provide the body with iron and vitamin C, because without these components collagen can not be formed. The synthesis of collagen fibers is also affected by hormones, so it is important to make sure there are no deficiencies. Also, physical activity has a beneficial effect on collagen formation
Natural collagen can be found in foods, including gelatin, offal, pork knuckles, chicken feet, and shark fins and cartilage. It may also be a good idea to reach for dietary supplements to help replenish collagen levels in the body
Collagen is available on the market in various forms: as tablets, powder to be mixed with water, creams, gels or liquids. Choose a product free of sugar and preservatives. You can find ready-to-drink collagen, which does not require measuring or mixing with water, at primabiotic.co.uk.
Main photo: Jellybee/unsplash.com