What is Collagen? Collagen is a main structural protein found naturally in our skin, digestive system, bones, teeth, muscles, hair, connective tissue, and blood cells. It makes up about 70%-80% of our skin dry weight. In addition to this building block, we also have elastin and hyaluronic acid which provides stretch, recoil, and elasticity to the skin. We may also hear about Collagen in the fitness centers to aid in work out recovery and decreasing joint pain and inflammation.
The peak age of our bodies Collagen is from age 18-20 years. Then, as we age, the Collagen degrades about 1% per year; if we continue to be in peak condition. Factors that can speed up our Collagen degradation can be smoking, excess sugar, ultraviolet light, and even genetics, physiological and pathological factors.
Protein is comprised of 20 amino acids used to build the proteins you need to survive. Eleven of these amino acids are produced by the human body. We must get the other nine amino acids (essential amino acids) form the foods we eat. There are three categories of amino acids: Essential (from food), Non-Essential (produced by the body), Conditionally-Essential (Non-Essential that become essential in times of illness and stress).
What are the big three amino acids in Collagen? Well, Collagen contain 19 amino acids, including 8 essential amino acids and are heavily concentrated in the “big 3” which are Glycine, Proline, and Hydroxyproline. In other words, 50% of the 19 amino acids are heavily concentrated in the “big 3.” Therefore, to increase your Collagen you need to eat things like bone broth, organ meats, shellfish. However, if you were going to purchase and orally ingest Collagen then the product would need to be easily broken down and absorbable or hydrolyzed. In other words, Collagen Peptide supplements. There are a number of Collagen powders currently on the market.
It helps our skin look YOUNG! At Enrichment Skin Solutions, we would enjoy talking with you not only about your nutrition, exercise, relaxation, but your skin care needs. Our treatment interventions can assist with a more youthful look and feel. We also have medical grade skin care products that penetrate and benefit your deep skin. Let’s see if we can’t decrease the degradation of collagen and improve your skin health.
