Collagen
WHAT IS COLLAGEN?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in living organisms, which does not dissolve naturally in the body, and provides structural integrity to tissues. Collagen accounts for about 30% of the total protein content in the human body. It provides the integrity, elasticity and strength of the connective tissues of our body. Thus, it preserves the shape and function of skin, cartilage and bones. With its high tensile strength, it is the main component of skin, connective tissue, cartilage, ligaments, tendons and bones. By weight, the human body consists of roughly 60% water, 20% protein and 15% fat, while the remainder is various minerals.
WHERE IS COLLAGEN MOSTLY LOCATED IN THE BODY?
Collagen is found in skin, bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, smooth muscle tissue, blood vessels, and other organs of the human body. It is an essential component of hair and nails. Different types of collagen are formed in different parts of the body, and type I collagen is the most common. You can find detailed information here.
WHAT IS COLLAGEN PEPTIDE?
Short chains of amino acids formed by the controlled breakdown of natural collagen with the help of enzymes are called collagen peptides. Collagen differs from other proteins by its high concentration of glycine, proline and hydroxyproline.
Collagen is abundant in the bones and skin of fish and cattle. Collagen peptides are collagen proteins in absorbable form.
COLLAGEN STRUCTURE
Collagen is one of the basic building blocks of our body proteins. The collagen that forms the muscles, bones, joints and fibers in our body consists of three alpha chains wrapped around each other. Many types of collagen are defined in our body and these collagens are named as type 1, type 2 etc. and the main source of this diversity stems from the molecular structures of collagen types.
WHY DOES COLLAGEN DECREASE?
Age is not the only factor that slows down collagen production.
Except this;
- Modern lifestyle
- High sugar consumption
- High sun exposure
- Smoking
- Not paying attention to vitamin C, which should be taken daily
- Skin care neglect
- Dirty weather effects
- Very intense sports activity
- Sleep disorder can reduce our body’s collagen storage. You can find detailed information about collagen supplements here.
One of the reasons for the decrease in the amount of collagen in the body is age. However, there are also factors that cause collagen deficiency and reduce the amount of collagen in the body, apart from aging. First of all, when too much sugar and refined carbohydrates are consumed, collagen deficiency can be seen. Apart from that, too much sun exposure can reduce the amount of collagen in the body. In summer, sunscreen creams should be used and skin health should be paid attention to. You should consult healthcare professionals for the most accurate information.