If you pay close attention to skin care or are starting to look into caring for your skin, you're likely to have run across the word collagen at some point. Collagen is an essential protein building block that forms the foundation of our skin, bones and connective tissues. It helps to strengthen our bones and keep our skin from being dry and dull. However, aging declines our body's natural collagen production. This can be combated with a change in diet and supplements to help keep our collagen levels boosted.
But what is it that you, in particular, need? To find out, you'll first need to learn the difference between collagen and collagen peptides. You'll regret buying one only to find out you need the other, so let's make sure you don't make that mistake. Here's everything you need to know.
CNET
What is collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant protein our bodies produce. It is made from three chains of amino acids arranged into a helix pattern and is found in our muscles, tendons, cartilage, skin and bones. Amino acid glycine is present in most collagen chains, with proline and hydroxyproline also being common. In addition to being a foundational building block, collagen is more specifically useful for tissue repair and a healthy immune response.
There are 28 types of collagen. Of these, types I and III make up the significant majority. As we age, our collagen breaks down more quickly, and our bodies become less effective at producing more. (This is one of the contributing causes of aging skin.) Other factors that contribute to collagen decline include smoking, environmental pollution, excessive alcohol use and nutrient deficiencies.
What does collagen do?
As we age, our collagen breaks down at a faster rate, compounded by decreased production, so it's important to be mindful of our collagen intake. While this is important for overall body health, there are many specific benefits that people may pursue. Healthy collagen levels help maintain the following:
Healthy hair
Skin
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