Discover Collagen’s Natural Power for Radiant Skin, Strong Joints, and Lasting Vitality.

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, accounting for nearly 30% of the total protein content. It plays a vital role in providing structure, support, and strength to various tissues and organs. From skin and bones to tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels, collagen is the building block that helps keep our body firm, flexible, and functional.

Despite being so essential, collagen production in the body naturally begins to decline with age—often starting in our mid20s. This decrease can lead to various signs of aging, including wrinkles, sagging skin, joint pain, and weaker bones. However, by understanding what collagen is, where it comes from, and how we can naturally support its production, we can take steps toward better skin health, stronger joints, and overall wellbeing.

What is Collagen?

Collagen is a fibrous, structural protein made up primarily of three amino acids: glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. These amino acids are arranged in a triplehelix structure that gives collagen its strength and flexibility. It acts like a scaffold that provides strength and elasticity to tissues.

Collagen is often referred to as the "glue" of the body—interestingly, the word collagen is derived from the Greek word "kólla," meaning glue. It not only helps the skin stay firm and elastic but also plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy cartilage, blood vessels, organs, and even the eyes.

Types of Collagen

Scientists have identified at least 28 types of collagen, but five main types are the most relevant to human health:

1. Type I Collagen

Most abundant (about 90% of total collagen in the body)

Found in skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and teeth

Provides strength and structure

2. Type II Collagen

Found mainly in cartilage

Helps cushion joints and maintain flexibility

Important in preventing and managing arthritis and joint pain

3. Type III Collagen

Found in skin, lungs, intestines, blood vessels

Works alongside Type I to provide elasticity and firmness

Especially important for vascular health

4. Type IV Collagen

Found in basement membranes of the skin and organs

Supports filtration in organs like the kidneys

5. Type V Collagen

Found in hair, placenta, cornea of the eye

Helps form the surface layer of cells and tissues

Each type of collagen serves a different purpose, making it essential for multiple body systems to function correctly.

Sources of Collagen

Collagen is produced naturally by the body, but you can also increase collagen levels through dietary sources. However, it’s important to understand that real collagen only comes from animal sources. Plantbased products may support collagen production but do not contain collagen themselves.

✅ AnimalBased Sources (Contain Actual Collagen)

Bone broth (paya/yakhni): Rich in gelatin, which is a cooked form of collagen

Chicken skin: A good source of Type II collagen

Beef (connective tissues): Contains Type I and III collagen

Fish skin and bones: Easily absorbed marine collagen

Egg whites: Rich in proline, an amino acid needed for collagen formation

Gelatin: Derived from animal bones and skin; used in cooking

These sources provide the body with collagen peptides and amino acids that help maintain the skin, joints, and connective tissue.

❌ PlantBased Sources (Support Collagen Production)

Plants don’t contain collagen, but they can help stimulate the body’s natural collagen production. Key nutrients that assist in this process include:

Vitamin C: Crucial for collagen synthesis (found in citrus fruits, amla, guava, strawberries)

Zinc and copper: Support enzymatic reactions (found in seeds, nuts, mushrooms)

Antioxidants: Help protect existing collagen from damage (found in green tea, berries, leafy greens)

These nutrients act as cofactors in the body’s production of collagen but are not collagen themselves.

Why is Collagen Important?

Collagen has a wide range of benefits that go beyond skin health. Its importance touches nearly every system in the body.

⭐ 1. Skin Health

Collagen improves skin elasticity, hydration, and texture. A decrease in collagen leads to fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. Supplementing or increasing collagen through diet can result in more youthful, glowing skin.

⭐ 2. Joint and Bone Health

Collagen helps in cushioning joints and keeping cartilage intact. As we age, cartilage breaks down, leading to conditions like osteoarthritis. Collagen can reduce inflammation and joint pain and may help improve mobility.

⭐ 3. Hair and Nail Strength

Collagen provides structure to the hair and nails, helping them grow stronger and healthier. Weak nails and hair loss may be linked to collagen deficiency.

⭐ 4. Heart and Artery Health

Collagen is present in blood vessels and arteries. It provides them with flexibility and structure. Low collagen levels can lead to stiff arteries, increasing the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease.

⭐ 5. Gut Health

Collagen helps in repairing the gut lining. People with leaky gut syndrome or digestive issues may benefit from collagenrich foods, especially bone broth.

Conclusion

Collagen is an essential protein that supports the health of our skin, joints, bones, and organs. As the body ages, natural collagen production declines—but by incorporating collagenrich foods and supporting nutrients like vitamin C and zinc into our diet, we can help maintain our body's strength and flexibility.

Whether you're looking to improve your appearance, reduce joint pain, or support cardiovascular health, collagen plays a central role in overall wellness. For the best results, choose natural, animalbased sources of collagen and pair them with plantbased nutrients to maximize your body’s collagen production.