How does collagen work

How Collagen Functions in Our Bodies

Collagen is one of the most crucial and abundant proteins in the human body, playing a pivotal role across multiple physiological systems. It serves as a foundational component in our skin, hair, nails, and various connective tissues, including cartilage, bones, and joints. Its extensive presence underscores its significance not only to the integumentary system (which includes the skin) but also to blood vessels, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and the digestive tract.

Acting as the body's natural adhesive, collagen provides essential strength and structural support to our connective tissues. It is instrumental in maintaining the suppleness and elasticity of our skin and ensures the robustness of our joints. However, as we age, our bodies' natural ability to produce collagen diminishes. This gradual decline leads to visible signs of ageing, such as wrinkles and sagging skin, and can contribute to joint discomfort and inflammation.

Collagen's fundamental building blocks are amino acids, which are derived from the proteins we consume. When protein-rich foods are digested, they are broken down into amino acids. These amino acids are then repurposed by the body to perform critical functions such as healing wounds, repairing muscle tissue, and, importantly, synthesising new collagen. However, with the natural decrease in collagen production as we age, our skin loses its youthful appearance and our joints may become less stable and more susceptible to injury.

Understanding this natural progression highlights the importance of supporting our body's collagen levels through diet, supplements, and lifestyle choices to help maintain our structural health and youthful vitality as we grow older.