What is collagen?

Collagen is a natural protein that is found in our connective tissues to support muscle, bone, and ligament structure. As defined by the Cleveland Clinic, "collagen accounts for 30% of your body’s protein. It provides structure, support or strength to your skin, muscles, bones and connective tissues." 

Within this definition, it's safe to say that collagen essentially keeps up together. Although its primary purpose is to provide structure, strength and support throughout the body, many believe that healthy levels of collagen assist with the following: 

• Healthy Skin: Increased blood circulation improves the flow of essential nutrients and oxygen to rejuvenate skin.
• Stronger Hair: Restorative nutrients within collagen enfold each strand of hair at the root to promote longer, thicker, shinier hair.
• Better Digestion: A protective coating formed by collagen lines the digestive tract to repair intestinal wall obstructions and combat toxins. 

Unfortunately, even though this protein is a natural byproduct of our bodies, the amount we produce progressively decreases as we age. This can make us think of it more as a foe than a friend when it takes its natural turn towards depletion. As a result, many are in search of alternative sources of collagen.
 
How can we maintain healthy levels of collagen?
According to this article in Medical News Today, consuming a diet enriched with sources of collagen, such as Vitamin C, is one of the most optimal ways to naturally help your body manufacture collagen and sustain higher levels. Some foods to promote collagen production are apples, oranges, eggs, broccoli, and lean meats. Other methods to increase collagen levels include using dietary supplements, skin lotion and filler injections.

Keep in mind, the same way collagen is enhanced, it can also become damaged by aspects of our personal dietary and lifestyle choices. The benefits of collagen are compromised by these factors:

• Smoking limits blood circulation, reduces oxygen and essential nutrients for the skin and causes wrinkles.
• Dehydration depletes collagen, decreases cell growth, and prompts fine lines.
• Sleep Deprivation lowers collagen restoration, weakens tissue, and develops skin abnormalities (i.e. dark circles, puffy eyes, etc.)

Are there dangers in relying on collagen supplements?

Collagen supplements are not typically regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, and studies on these types of supplements are limited. According to this article from the MD Anderson Cancer Center, collagen supplements have been shown to contain heavy metals and toxins - so before using, it's important to absolutely do your own research on each individual supplement before consuming and/or using regularly.

Let’s face it…

Everything has pros and cons, and collagen is no exception. Yes, this particular protein is absolutely a necessary protein; however, when it comes to boosting collagen with dietary supplements, remember to consult with your doctor and choose a health-conscious regimen that’s best for you if you want to avoid encountering any unexpected disadvantages that would turn a friend into a foe.