Collagen is the most abundant protein found in our body.
It is indeed present in the connective tissues (skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments …) but also in the blood vessels, the bones, the digestive system … It is the collagen which gives strength and elasticity to our tissues and which helps them to form a solid and functioning unit.
What is the role of collagen in your skin?
This protein is essential for supporting the skin. It gives the skin the firmness and elasticity needed to move and function healthily. However, its production decreases with age.
Indeed, our body produces collagen naturally until about the age of 30, after which its production gradually decreases with a loss of about 1% per year at 40 years and 30% per year at 70 years.
Other factors tend to decrease the production of collagen such as smoking, a diet too high in sugar or excessive exposure to the sun. Menopause also has a significant impact. Indeed, at this time in women’s lives, the production of estrogen decreases, which reduces the production of collagen and sebum. The skin is therefore drier and more prone to sagging and the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
How to compensate for the loss of collagen?
There are different ways to compensate for the decrease in collagen production and reduce its harmful effects on the elasticity and youthfulness of the skin.
It is for example very important to have a balanced diet and sufficiently rich in vitamin C. Indeed, this vitamin makes it possible to optimize the production of collagen. Getting into the habit of consuming fruits and vegetables that contain a significant amount such as citrus fruits, kiwis, cabbage, peppers, tomatoes, melons or strawberries, therefore helps prevent the destruction of collagen fibers on the skin.
Additionally, eating eggs, because they naturally contain the precious protein, as well as foods rich in vitamin E (almonds, spinach, quinoa, salmon, pine nuts …) will help us in protecting collagen fibres and elastin.
Collagen drinks: an effective solution to maintain beautiful skin
To limit the loss of collagen production from the age of 30 or at the time of menopause, many women turn to anti-aging creams which are enriched with it. The effect will unfortunately be very limited because the absorption of the protein is slowed down by the skin barrier.
By its internal action, drinkable collagen is therefore an effective complement to your anti-aging cream. It acts at a deeper level and has beneficial effects on the whole organism. A cure of 3 months 2 times per year is optimal to preserve the elasticity of your skin.
However, do not worry, there is no risk of overconsumption. Indeed, if the protein is absorbed in too large quantities, the excess is naturally eliminated by the digestive tract.