Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in the human body. In fact, it accounts for about 30% of all bodily protein. Specifically, collagen is a key component of our connective tissues, playing a critical role in helping to support strength, flexibility, movement and motion.
As a structural protein, collagen is made up of amino acids and is uniquely high in: glycine, proline and hydroxyproline. These amino acids form long chains of polypeptide molecules that create the structure of collagen fibers. These collagen proteins are critical in helping to support the health and integrity of our body’s tissues, especially in our muscles, tendons, bones, joints and skin.
WHAT DOES COLLAGEN DO FOR THE BODY?
Because collagen is one of the most abundant proteins found in our bodies, the benefits of collagen are plentiful and diverse. It is present in all connective tissues including bone, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, muscles, teeth, skin, and many other parts of the body. Essentially, collagen is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of our body. It helps keep us strong and flexible.-
SKIN
When it comes to skin - collagen helps to maintain its firm, plump, hydrated and supple nature. It does this through the dermis (the skin’s foundation), which is closely involved in keeping the skin elastic and flexible. Since collagen is a prevalent component of the dermis, keeping collagen in good supply is what helps the body retain the above benefits.
But as with most things, time takes its toll on the amount of collagen present in our body . And, the body's natural collagen production diminishes as we age, which can result in fine lines and sagging skin. Hydrolyzed collagen supplements are a source of the essential amino acid lysine which helps in collagen formation.
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BONE, JOINTS, MUSCLES, LIGAMENTS
Collagen is one of the components that make up your bones, so as collagen production decreases your bone health is compromised. This might result in your bones becoming much more susceptible to fractures and breaks. In healthy bones there is a balance in bone turnover between the activity of bone forming cells (osteoblasts) and cells responsible for bone reabsorption (osteoclasts). When the equilibrium is disrupted and cell breakdown is outpacing the synthesis of new bone, the result is less flexible and more fragile bones. Collagen peptides help to reduce joint pain from osteoarthritis.
Our wide variety of collagen products, such as Vital Proteins® Marine Collagen, provide amino-acids involved in protein synthesis and collagen formation.
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HAIR
Collagen is the primary component of the reticular layer of the dermis, which is the connective tissue that holds hair follicles.
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ACTIVE LIFESTYLE
Collagen is believed to help boost muscle mass, specifically by stimulating growth of muscle after exercise and through synthesis of muscle proteins.1
