Collagen is the primary protein found in connective tissue, serving as the main building block of tendons due to its high resistance to stretching. However, the role of collagen extends beyond this function. It is responsible for skin elasticity, and its gradual decline leads to wrinkle formation during the aging process. Collagen not only influences appearance but also health, as it is present in cartilage, enabling smooth joint function.
Natural Collagen: Discovery and Presence in the Human Body
Natural collagen is an extraordinary discovery made by Gdańsk scientists who focused their research on fish proteins. They successfully isolated biologically active fish collagen, which is strikingly similar to human collagen and demonstrates a strong tendency to bind with protein fibers in the human body.
Revolutionary in nature, natural collagen provides long-lasting hydration and accelerates epidermal regeneration. From the age of 25, the body's natural collagen production decreases, and elastin fibers weaken. These components are crucial for the proper tension of the skin's connective tissue matrix. Free radicals and toxins contribute to the destruction of fibers, while the body experiences a decline in substances that stimulate natural collagen production (vitamins A, C, E, and copper). Consequently, skin loses its firmness, wrinkles appear, skin tone changes, and it becomes dry and rough.
Collagen Sources: Natural and Pharmacological
For many years, it was believed that any deficiency should be compensated for by consuming larger amounts of the missing component. As a result, people were advised to consume large quantities of:
- Pork or veal jelly from legs,
- Chicken feet jellies and soups,
- Fish in jelly,
- Shark cartilage and fin powder,
- Cooked cartilages and headstocks,
- Pork knuckles and offal.
In other words, all products containing gelatin obtained from animal bones. This belief was not supported by any research. It was relatively recently discovered that collagen in food contains only a small amount of absorbable proline, which can support collagen regeneration in the human body. Consequently, such a diet could cause more harm than good. Collagen in food proved to be a poor supplementation method, leading to the development of numerous pharmacological agents that supply the body with the necessary substance.
Marine collagen, derived from the skin of sea fish, is available in several forms depending on its intended use. Collagen for scars and wrinkles is primarily applied in cream form to areas targeted for treatment. However, collagen tablets, an oral supplementation method, are more highly recommended. These tablets allow the substance to impact the entire body, addressing multiple health and appearance concerns. The best supplementation method is drinking collagen, which has the highest absorption rate. It does not require the body's energy for digestion, allowing it to quickly enter the human system from the digestive tract. For those who dislike the taste of powdered protein, tablets remain an alternative option.
The Impact of Collagen on the Human Body
The effect of collagen on the entire human body is visible through improved physical appearance, but that is not all. Collagen for joints has a positive influence on alleviating pain, ultimately leading to changes in overall posture. An upright, resilient posture enhances attractiveness just as much as the reduction of wrinkles. Collagen improves overall bone health and reduces nail brittleness while also enhancing hair and skin condition.
Collagen for stretch marks is a solution that few people are aware of. Nevertheless, collagen can help smooth scar edges and potentially aid in the reconstruction of torn collagen fibers, which are the direct cause of stretch marks.
Collagen is rightfully called the elixir of youth. However, as with any substance, proper and sensible supplementation is essential.
