Collagen is a necessary protein found in abundance in the body. The human body would not have structure without it. Skin that has started to lose its elasticity, bones that are brittle and teeth that easily chip may be signs that collagen production is low. Understanding the nutritional makeup of collagen can help in deciding which dietary approach to embark upon to increase collagen production. A diet high in certain vitamins and minerals may provide stronger, more prevalent collagen in the body.
Identification
Collagen, according to Catherine T. Milne in the book, "Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing Secrets," is a type of fibrous protein that is characterized by its ability to aggregate molecules into intricate arrangements. One molecule of collagen consists of three strands of protein. Each strand is twisted individually, and then three are twisted around each other, which is known as a triple helix. Chemical reactions lead collagen to line up end-to-end and side-by-side, creating strong fibers used throughout the body.
Function
Collagen is the most abundant protein in mammals, according to Paul Insel in the book, "Nutrition." This protein gives skin and bone their elastic strength, and is the most fibrous protein in the body. Collagen is also the major constituent of connective tissue, forming the foundation for bones and teeth, and maintaining the structure of blood vessels and other tissues, adds Insel.
Nutrition
Collagen is created from several nutrients, enzymes and cofactors, which is why getting proper nutrition is so important for collagen development. According to Shawn Talbott in the book, "Cortisol Control and the Beauty Connection," amino acids are used by the body to produce collagen. Cofactors that go into making collagen include vitamins C, D, E and B-complex, as well as the minerals copper, zinc, manganese and silicon.
Potential
Certain foods and herbs can also help improve nutrition in the body in order to boost collagen production. Talbott notes that bromelain, boswellia, green tea, grape seed and gotu kola may help to enhance the process of connective-tissue maintenance by reducing inflammation and improving circulation, allowing for strengthened collagen.
Considerations
Collagen supplements are easily found at health food stores, but they are not necessarily the best way to improve production, and may in fact, be harmful. Increasing foods which contain the vitamins listed above, including C, D, E and B-complex and the minerals copper, zinc, manganese and silicon is a better way to increase collagen in the body.
References
- "Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing Secrets"; Catherine T. Milne; 2003
- "Nutrition"; Paul Insel; 2010
- "Cortisol Control and the Beauty Connection"; Shawn Talbott; 2007
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