What is collagen?
Collagen is a fibrous protein that’s created in the body and required for many vital biological processes. It’s a required building block for healthy nails, hair, skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and more. Any time you move, be grateful for collagen. Sadly, as we age and put our body under stress, collagen production declines.
What are collagen peptides?
In biology, “peptides” is a term that simply refers to short chains of amino acids. All collagen is a protein made up of amino acids: glycine, proline, hydroxyproline, and arginine, all of which help our bodies remain in good health. There are more than a dozen types of collagen. which are composed of different peptides and exhibit a range of structures and functions. Roughly 80% of collagen belongs to what’s classified as type 1, 2, and 3, which are very strong and flexible proteins. Type 1 is important for bone, teeth, and skin formation and is predominant in the tissue and tendons. But, where there is type 1, you’ll often find type 2 collagen. Type 2 is mostly known for its role as structural support in cartilage. Type 3 is found in skin, muscle, and blood vessels.
Collagen and the gut
There is some evidence that amino acids in collagen, specifically glycine, may reduce GI inflammation in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and improve digestion. Additionally, glutamine, one of the collagen’s other amino acids, is key for preventing gut
inflammation and inhibiting oxidative stress of the intestines. The most robust research on collagen has been on joint and bone health. Collagen plays an important role in connective tissue functioning. If you want to increase your collagen intake, why not start with homemade bone broth, ideally from organic bones. When buying supplements, remember not all collagen peptide proteins are created equally – make sure that you’re buying from a high-quality and reputable source.
7 proven health benefits of collagen
- Brain and Alzheimers protection
- Heal Leaky Gut Syndrome
- Less back pain
- No more brittle, broken nails
- Improve skin elasticity
- Prevent and help treat heart disease
Remember, collagen won’t give you glowing skin or flexible joints overnight. It will take a few months of consistent use to really reap any benefits, but the current research shows that it’s worth a try. If you need help to address any digestive issues or joint inflammation via diet and practitioner only supplements please book in for a consult with Marie, our clinical nutritionist.
