Are you looking for ways to improve your skincare routine? If so, you’ve probably seen plenty of collagen products that promise to rejuvenate your skin and nails.
Luckily for your wallet, you can get the collagen you need from your diet rather than popping a pill. Below, we’ll explain what collagen is and the role it plays in your body so you can make the best nutrition decisions for your needs.
What is collagen and what does it do?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, and therefore important in maintaining your body’s functions. Registered dietitian and nutritionist Tony Castillo explains that the best way to think about collagen is “as a glue to hold things together.” It’s the major building block of tendons, ligaments, bones, muscles and skin. It also helps your body rebuild itself after injuries, especially at sites like tendons, ligaments and muscles. Take a moment right now to thank collagen for literally keeping your body together.
Your body creates its own collagen by combining amino acids. The process also uses vitamin C, zinc and copper, so you can promote natural collagen production by eating a well-balanced diet (more on that later).
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Do I have enough collagen?
As we get older, our bodies start to naturally produce less collagen. While wrinkles and aches are a part of the aging process, you may be wondering if low collagen is to blame for your ailments.
Castillo says that the following are signs that you may be low on the vital protein:
- Less flexible tendons and ligaments
- Wrinkles on skin
- Weak muscles
- Worn-out cartilage or joint pain
- Gastrointestinal issues caused by thinning of the lining of the digestive tract
If any physical symptoms significantly interfere with your quality of life, check in with your doctor. If you’d just like smoother skin and a little more pep in your step, it could be worth looking into how you can increase your collagen levels.