In previous articles, we reviewed the different properties of collagen and discussed the positive impact collagen can have on our gut health, joints, varicose veins, and rosacea. In those posts, we highlighted how important collagen is and how it positively impacts our bodies. We briefly touched upon what makes up the composition of collagen and the differences in the types of collagen sources. In this feature, we dive a bit deeper into these subjects, looking first at the nature of collagen and then discussing how we can help maintain and stimulate collagen production in our bodies.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN ELEMENTS MAKING UP COLLAGEN?
Essentially, collagen is a protein. Protein is an element of every cell in the human body and drives growth and maintenance. Each protein fulfils a different function and helps digestion, muscle and vascular activity and many other vital processes.
Cell and tissue structure, as well as many enzymes and hormones, are made of proteins. Collagen is one of the body’s principal proteins accounting for around a third of the total protein composition. Collagen acts like glue (by the way, the word kólla in Greek means exactly that), as it holds the human body together and can be found in bones, skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments, as well as blood vessels, teeth and in other parts of our bodies. 1
Proteins consist of many different interconnected chains of amino acids. A typical protein is made up of 300 or more amino acids. 2 The positioning of collagen's amino acids is unique and primarily consists of three amino acid chains: glycine, proline and hydroxyproline. Below is a brief description of each of these:
- Glycine is white and crystalline; it is soluble in water and has a sweet taste. Most proteins are low in glycine, except collagen, as about 25-35% of its composition is glycine. In the human body, glycine helps synthesize the antioxidant glutathione needed to fight free radicals. Free radicals cause oxidative stress and damage cells and proteins. Glycine also aids the development of creatine, which provides the necessary energy for muscle and brain function. 3 Glycine participates in the regeneration of damaged skin and tissues, protects joints and cartilage, improves digestion, and is significant to many other processes in the human body.
- Proline is an organic acid found in collagen. The body mainly uses proline for skin rejuvenation. 4
- Hydroxyproline is involved in the synthesis of glycine, pyruvate, and glucose. Both proline and hydroxyproline are critical for cell structure and function. 5
- Proteins are constantly renewed and need a regular supply of amino acids.
HOW CAN WE STIMULATE COLLAGEN PRODUCTION?
Collagen production slows down after the age of 25, leading to skin ageing, the formation of wrinkles and the stiffening of joints. Collagen helps the skin maintain firmness and moisture levels and promotes cell regeneration. Over time, it becomes increasingly important to maintain adequate collagen levels and stimulate its synthesis in the body. Including more of the following in our diets can certainly help this process:
- Hyaluronic acid is a vital element in maintaining the health and youth of our skin. Oral administration of hyaluronic acid stimulates fibroblast activity, which boosts collagen production. We can find Hyaluronic acid in products high in amino acids, such as beans, root vegetables and soy.
- Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant and participates in collagen synthesis. It also regulates skin pigmentation and helps maintain an even facial skin tone throughout the year. Sources of Vitamin C include citrus fruits, peppers, strawberries, papaya, broccoli and green leafy vegetables.
- Antioxidants protect the body from free radicals and enable collagen to better perform its functions. Antioxidants exist in large quantities in products such as blueberries, green tea, and liquorice extract.
- Large quantities of Proline are in egg whites, wheat germ, dairy products, cabbage, asparagus and mushrooms.
- Glycine is present in a variety of protein-rich products, such as gelatin. 6,7
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF COL DU MARINE™?
Col Du Marine™ marine collagen peptides primarily consist of glycine, proline and hydroxyproline. Our marine collagen peptides are of low molecular mass, guaranteeing easy digestion and absorption by our bodies. Col Du Marine™ marine collagen peptides dissolve in any drink and are simple and easy to add to your daily diet. Col Du Marine™ collagen peptides have a neutral taste and smell, so they do not alter the taste or impair the enjoyment of your favourite food and beverages.
Col Du Marine™ also contains hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and silica from bamboo sprout extract, bringing even more benefits to our bodies!
Visit our store and try Col Du Marine™ marine collagen peptides today!
Sources:
(1) Collagen — What Is It and What Is It Good For? https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/collagen#what-it-is
(2) What Are Proteins and What Is Their Function in the Body? https://www.eufic.org/en/whats-in-food/article/what-are-proteins-and-what-is-their-function-in-the-body
(3) Health Benefits of Glycine, https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-glycine#1
(4) Proline, https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1620/proline
(5) Wu, G., Bazer, F. W., Burghardt, R. C., Johnson, G. A., Kim, S. W., Knabe, D. A., Li, P., Li, X., McKnight, J. R., Satterfield, M. C., & Spencer, T. E. (2011). Proline and hydroxyproline metabolism: implications for animal and human nutrition. Amino acids, 40(4), 1053–1063. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00726-010-0715-z (source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3773366/ )
(6) Ways to get healthier looking skin by boosting collagen levels, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317151#Ways-to-boost-collagen
(7) Collagen — What Is It and What Is It Good For? https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/collagen#nutrients-that-increase-collagen
