Collagen is a protein necessary for the health and function of the connective tissues in your body. Connective tissues weave the different parts of the body — skin, bones, and organs — together and give the shape of your body. Without collagen, your body might look completely different.
There are approximately 40 different types of collagen in the human body, but four of them are considered the most common. They are:
Type 1 Collagen - forms fibers and is found in the connective tissue attached to bones, ligaments, tendons, and skin
Type II collagen - forms less organized fibers than type I and is found primarily in cartilage
Type III collagen - forms thinner fibers than type I and contributes to the organization of cells in organs
Type IV Collagen - Found in the "basement membrane," a plate-like structure of collagen cells that surrounds various tissues
Our bodies create collagen by breaking down the protein we eat into amino acids, the building blocks with which our bodies can make new proteins.
You can get collagen through foods as well as supplements. Research is ongoing regarding the specific health benefits of collagen supplementation versus food collagen. However, it is clear that collagen adds essential elements to your diet.
Why do you need Collagens
As you age, maintaining collagen levels becomes more difficult. This is especially true for women who have already gone through menopause. This is because, over time, your body increasingly struggles to absorb adequate amounts of the nutrients needed to make collagen.
However, eating foods rich in collagen can help your body overcome some absorption issues. As a result, your body can remain stronger and healthier even as you get older.
