Collagen: The Body’s Architectural Marvel
1. What Is Collagen?
Definition: Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body, making up around 30% of our total protein.
Building Blocks: It’s composed of amino acids like proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline, which combine to form protein fibrils in a triple helix structure.
Versatility: Collagen is the glue that holds our body together, found in skin, muscles, bones, tendons, and more.
2. Functions of Collagen:
Structural Support: Collagen provides strength and structure to our tissues.
Cell Growth: It aids in new cell formation.
Skin Health: Collagen keeps our skin elastic and helps replace dead skin cells.
Organ Protection: It acts as a protective shield for our organs.
Blood Clotting: Collagen plays a role in clot formation.
3. Types of Collagen:
Type I: Dominates, forming skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments.
Type II: Supports joints and elastic cartilage.
Type III: Found in muscles, arteries, and organs.
Type IV: Layers in our skin.
Type V: Present in eyes, hair, and placental tissue.
4. Aging and Collagen:
As we age, collagen production decreases.
Quality of collagen also diminishes.
Women experience a significant drop after menopause.
Normal decline after age 60.
5. Signs of Collagen Decline:
Look out for wrinkled, sagging, or crepey skin.