What collagen can bring to the skin
Collagen is made up of chains of amino acids that provide resistance and flexibility to bones, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, skin, muscles, blood vessels, cornea, teeth, gums and the scalp.In the market there are many cosmetic products that help the synthesis of collagen to improve the state of the skin. But also are increasingly popular nutricosmetics that include this protein in its formulation and pursue this same goal but from the inside. "The reduction of estrogen associated with age favors a lower synthesis of collagen", explained to TodoDermo Amil López, pharmacist and creator of the Coherent Diet .
In addition to age, "a diet low in protein reduces the concentration of growth hormone, which results in a lower production of collagen and elastin , with the consequent loss of firmness and elasticity of the skin." Other factors that influence the loss of this protein are the consumption of tobacco and alcohol that "deteriorate the collagen fibers, accelerating premature aging and wrinkles," he warns.
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"A diet low in protein reduces the concentration of growth hormone, which results in a lower production of collagen and elastin"
Collagen "is one of the most abundant proteins in the body," he reports. It is made up of "chains of amino acids that provide resistance and flexibility to bones, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, skin, muscles, blood vessels, cornea, teeth, gums and the scalp."
From the age of 30 "collagen synthesis of structural function is reduced at the level of the dermis and hyaluronic acid , which is responsible for the hydration of the skin and mucous membranes". Therefore, "low levels of collagen favor that the skin loses shine, elasticity and firmness". By contrast, "high levels improves the firmness of the skin, helps to heal wounds, improves skin tone and reduces the tendency to cellulite", among other effects.
After 30 years "collagen synthesis of structural function at the level of the dermis and hyaluronic acid is reduced"
But not only acts at the level of the dermis, but also in the bone . "The bone collagen is the support of calcium, so the less you have, the less calcium, the less flexibility of the bones and becomes more fragile." Collagen "also allows better resistance to pressure or shock , which can deform without breaking." As the expert indicates, collagen is produced while we sleep "especially in the first fraction of sleep, as long as it is of quality".
Jelly
Ingested
If this asset is so beneficial, how can levels in the body be increased ? As López explains, "being a large molecule, the collagen that comes from food is not easily absorbed ." In addition, for a better absorption it is better that the foods are cooked and avoid the refined sugar and carbohydrates , since "they favor the process of caramelization of the collagen and accelerate the premature aging". Even knowing this information, the foods that most promote its production are "chicken, fish, red meat, sausages, soy and gelatin".
For better absorption it is better that the food is cooked and avoid refined sugar and carbohydrates
Another way is supplements . Of these, López points out that "they must have a low molecular weight to guarantee their absorption at the intestinal level". Of all the supply that exists, the hydrolyzed collagen of marine origin "is the one that contains the amino acid profile more akin to that of human collagen, being much superior to that of porcine and bovine because of its excellent bioavailability".
As you remember, in the market there are many collagens of animal origin (type I and II). To obtain it, the expert explains, "native collagen is subjected to a natural (non-chemical) hydrolysis process consisting of gelatinization by steam cooking, followed by enzymatic hydrolysis. This hydrolysis breaks the complex chains that form the collagen protein to obtain smaller peptides that easily cross the intestinal barrier, increasing its bioavailability . "
It is important to know that " there are no collagen supplements of plant origin , since what actually exist are pectins that are carbohydrates."
Usually, according to Lopez, the intake of 5-10 grams per day in the form of collagen supplements is recommended, although everything will depend on the effect you want to achieve. In any case, "it will take a minimum of two months of treatment to notice the benefits of nutricosmetics."
Better with vitamin C
For a better result it would be important that the supplement includes vitamin C "necessary for the synthesis of collagen, rejuvenate the immune system, facilitate healing and absorption of iron ." This active ingredient is present in citrus fruits, currants, guavas, peppers, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower and broccoli. In the case of smokers, they will need a greater contribution.
"It activates the cellular oxygenation, the formation of collagen, the immune system and synergizes with the B vitamins"
Iron is another fundamental component. "It activates cellular oxygenation, the formation of collagen, the immune system and synergizes with the B vitamins," he explains. Its main source are molluscs such as mussels and clams, red meats, black pudding, legumes, dark green leafy vegetables, red cabbage, parsley, artichoke, broccoli and cauliflower.
At the topical level (cosmetics), "it must have a low molecular weight so that it can penetrate the dermis and exert its functions of cellular support and repair," he stresses. Therefore, López advises purchasing them in pharmacies whose products, in the vast majority of cases, guarantee "the penetration of the active principle".