Did you know that collagen is the most common protein in the human body? There are actually 28 different types of collagen within the body, but 90% of it is classified as Type 1. Collagen is the essential component of our bones, skin, muscle tissue, tendons, ligaments, nails, hair, teeth, cartilage, vertebral discs, and blood vessels.
Our bodies naturally produce collagen, however, as we age that natural production starts to decrease. According to Scientific American, after the age of 20 our bodies produce 1% less collagen in the skin each year. That’s why collagen injections became and have remained a very popular cosmetic procedure to plump up lips and areas of the face where a decrease in collagen has caused noticeable signs of aging.
What many of us probably haven’t realized yet though is that collagen supplementation is incredibly beneficial to so many other parts of our bodies. In 2018, collagen earned itself a new reputation as being one of the most prized superfood supplements. Collagen is one of the cleanest types of protein powder and has taken the supplement and wellness market by storm.
Adding collagen powder to your daily smoothie has benefits far beyond cosmetic. Collagen plays a critical role in bone health and can actually help prevent osteoporosis. It is also beneficial to your immune system and your body’s natural ability to heal after an injury or prolonged illness. This powerhouse protein helps to reduce inflammation, which we all know is responsible for the majority of chronic diseases. Collagen and the amino acids that are present in this protein aid in the reduction of anxiety, stress, and insomnia too.
Collagen helps protect and repair the intestinal wall, which is an important barrier against the acids our body produces to ensure the proper digestion of food. For those with “leaky gut syndrome” or chronic stomach and digestive issues, increasing your collagen intake can drastically improve your gut-health and quality of life. It should be noted, however, that you should always consult a medical professional prior to adding any new supplements to your diet as a potential means of treating a chronic ailment.
When it comes to your teeth, gum, and jaw health, collagen plays a major role, as well. Collagen is essential to the integrity of your teeth and the supportive tissue around them. Collagen will aid in maintaining your gum and jaw health, as well as helping to prevent your jowls from sagging as you age.
The richest source of collagen is bone broth, which is also a growing trend of 2018. Bone broth is all the rave these days and for very good reasons. As the number one source of collagen, regular consumption of this “miracle broth” has been linked to improved gut-health, healthier joints, younger looking skin, tissue regeneration, and improved brain and heart health, among many other benefits. Bone broth is also packed with 17 different amino acids.
If you are now interested in adding more collagen to your diet, as we would imagine you would be after reading this long list of health and wellness benefits, it is important to seek out the highest quality collagen powders and supplements and bone broth distributors. This goes for any type of supplements that you want to add to your daily routine.
We did some research for you and here are some highly reviewed brands to check out:
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides
Primal Kitchen Collagen Peptides
Sparkle Collagen Peptide Dietary Supplements
This is a great trend to get on board with and one that will likely continue into 2019 and beyond.