Collagen is a word that is dominating the beauty world. But if you think that it is only the beauty department that is benefited from collagen, then I must say that you are only partially right.
Collagen is an abundant protein that is found in the muscle, bones, skin, and tendons of the human body.
This substance present in the human body holds everything together.
Collagen provides strength and structure by forming a scaffold. Collagen is basically of two types. One being endogenous collagen and exogenous collagen.
The endogenous collagen is also known as natural collagen because it is synthesized by the body.
On the other hand, exogenous collagen is one that we have to take from outside such as supplements. Each collagen has a different function.
For instance, endogenous collagen has many important functions whereas, the breakdown and depletion of this collagen can lead to severe health issues.
On the other side, exogenous collagen is used in cosmetics and medical programs.
This was the general idea about collagen but this does not end here. There are many other things that you need to know if you want to have a better understanding of these most hyped substances.
This article is all about collagen, it’s functioning, what it does, and how it benefits.
Read the article till the end to know many important facts about this interesting substance that has a major role to play in our system.
What Is Collagen
First things first. Collagen is a protein in the human body that is insoluble, hard, and fibrous.
Moreover, this protein makes up one-third of the protein that is present in our body. The molecules present in collagen are tightly packed in order to form long, thin fibrils.
This supporting structure made by the molecules is very important so that the cells can be anchored to each other. This process gives strength and elasticity to the skin.
Interestingly, there are about 16 different collagen. Among all the 16 different types 80 to 90 percent of them belong to types 1,2 and 3. The structure and functioning of each type of collagen differ from each other.
Collagen that is produced in the human body is flexible and strong compared to the others. You will be amazed to know that type 1 collagen is stronger than steel.
They are even capable of being stretched because of the collagen fibrils.
What Does Collagen Do
The collagen that is produced in our body is secreted by various cells. Moreover, this is done by connecting various tissue cells.
To put this another way, collagen fiber supports our body tissues, it is even the main component of the extracellular matrix that helps in supporting cells. Collagen along with keratin gives the skin its elasticity, strength, and waterproofing capacity.
On the other hand, wrinkles occur when there is a loss of collagen. The production of collagen is reduced when we start aging.
However, the rate of collagen production can even decline due to smoking, sunlight, and other forms of oxidizing stress. The level of collagen reduces in women during the time of menopause.
The connective tissues in our body mainly consist of collagen. Collagen later turns into fibrils and provides structure to the fibrous tissues such as skin, tendons, and ligaments.
You can even find collagen in bones, blood vessels, cartilage, the cornea of the eyes, the intervertebral disc, and the gastrointestinal tract.
There is some collagen that provides a protective covering for delicate organs in the body such as kidneys.
We all know that collagen is a key component of the human body. But it is even interesting to be well-equipped with the fact that collagen is the common ingredient of many foods.
Gelatin acquires the ability to be firm only due to collagen.
Apart from this, gelatin can even be made using human collagen. Moreover, certain chemicals are used for cross-linking collagen.
There are many arguments regarding collagen used in food. As collagen is considered to be an animal protein, some people do not consider it vegetarian food.
Some popular food items like marshmallows and gelatin fall into this category.
Benefits Of Collagen
This article would not be complete if we do not discuss the benefits of this important substance.
You might be well aware of some of them, but I am sure that the rest will surely amaze you.
Reduces Joint Pain
Joint pain and discomfort are the results of cartilage weakening and age.
These factors can even lead to joint stiffness as well. In this case, you can increase the intake of collagen to find comfort and ease your joint ache.
Collagen even reduces the risk of arthritis.
A study conducted in 1996 has shown that taking collagen supplements regularly reduces swollen and tender joints which are the active symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Reduces Signs of Aging
We all are well-known for this benefit. Collagen is a common word that is uttered when aging is the main topic.
Collagen has the properties of promoting vibrant and glowing skin. This wonderful protein provides elasticity to the skin which helps you to look healthier and youthful.
A study published in 2014 shows that women who intake collagen supplements on a regular basis experience healthy skin and a reduction of wrinkles.
It Helps to Burn Fat and Build Muscles
The main component of muscle tissue is collagen due to this reason collagen has a major impact on muscle mass.
On the other hand, collagen even contains a good amount of amino acid and glycine which involves the process of creating creatine. This provides muscle fuel during the workout.
Final Thoughts On Collagen
As you can see, collagen does a lot for our body whether it is produced naturally in our body, consumed, or taken as a supplement.
Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of what collagen is and why it is important to us.
Please leave your comments and questions below and thank you for reading.
