When you read about your skin, hair or nails, chances are you've come across the word 'collagen' quite often. But what is it? How does it work? And what is it good for? Our experts will explain everything you want to know about collagen in detail.
What is collagen?
Collagen is a protein that is naturally present in the body. Think of it as a kind of glue that keeps your body supple and firm. You can find collagen throughout your body. In muscles, joints, hair, skin and even your nails.
How does a collagen deficiency arise?
Collagen is a protein that your body produces itself. But after the age of 25, this becomes increasingly difficult. The production of collagen decreases. And that is why you often see the first wrinkles or thinning hair from that age. When you are about 50 years old, your body no longer produces collagen.
What does collagen do to your body?
- Collagen is one of the many silent forces in your body. You will notice this when you list all the advantages of collagen.
- Collagen provides firmness and elasticity to your skin. It helps reduce wrinkles and gives your body a youthful appearance.
- Collagen also provides strength and elasticity to your nails and hair. For example, it gives your hair extra volume.
- Collagen provides structure and support in joints. This means less muscle pain and more flexibility.
- Collagen provides stronger bones and prevents bone loss.
- Collagen provides elasticity to connective tissue, keeping it resilient.
What types of collagen are there?
When we talk about collagen, we are not always talking about the same type of collagen. There are three different types.
- Type I: This type is the most common and is found in skin, bones, tendons, teeth and connective tissue. It provides strength and support to these structures. This is the type of collagen that you often see in aids such as SiWell .
- Type II: This type is found mainly in cartilage. It protects the joints and is sometimes used in supplements for people with joint problems.
- Type III: This type is found in the skin, blood vessels and internal organs. It supports the structure and elasticity of these and other tissues.
What does collagen contain?
You can help your body by stimulating the production of collagen. This is mainly found in animal products, such as meat, fish or chicken stock. Do you prefer to avoid animal products? Then eat some extra soybeans, red fruits, vegetables or nuts and seeds. It also helps to eat extra vitamin C and proteins.