Did you know your body naturally produces collagen? Yup, the super protein that gives you a flawless complexion and a youthful glow is actually made by YOU! Physiology is pretty cool, huh?
Pull up a chair and take out your notebook, because we’re about to school you on everything you should know about this youth-rejuvenating protein.
Here’s the glow down on all things collagen.
What is collagen?
Collagen is a protein that acts as a building block for your skin, hair, bones, muscles and tendons. Think of it as the glue that binds our bodies together!
Your body naturally produces collagen by breaking down dietary protein into amino acids. It’s then, that amino acids create different types of protein in your body, such as collagen.
Unfortunately, this production slows down as you age. Collagen levels begin to decrease in your mid-20’s, and by the time you reach your mid 40s, you’ve lost as much as 30% of collagen. Other factors, like smoking, poor diet, and excess sun exposure can also inhibit collagen production, however, all hope is not lost.
Although most signs of aging are inevitable, losing collagen doesn’t have to be. Keep reading to learn how you can naturally boost collagen production and maintain younger-looking skin!
How collagen improves your skin
Your skin is made up of many layers. In the middle layer of the skin (the dermis) you’ll find collagen and elastin – two proteins that provide structure, support, and elasticity to the skin. When collagen levels are high, your skin is firm, soft, and smooth. (This is why it’s so popular among skincare gurus.)
Think of collagen as the fountain of youth. It wards off wrinkles, fine lines, and can prevent sagging. But when collagen levels drop, these signs of aging become more apparent.
So, how can you keep your skin plump, and more youthful? By supporting your skin’s natural collagen production!
Hpw to (actually) boost collagen
Because natural collagen production is significantly reduced as we age, most people turn to expensive collagen creams that promise to “fill the skin’s surface with collagen.”
But, the truth is: collagen molecules are notoriously too large to penetrate the outer layer of the skin. This means you can’t apply it topically. Yup, all of those beauty brands are bending the truth about collagen but promoting collagen production actually starts from the inside-out. So, if you really want to preserve your youthful appearance, start with collagen-boosting foods.
You can support healthy collagen production by eating a diet rich in protein, vitamin C, and anti-inflammatory foods. And when you add skin-loving superfoods to your diet, like those found in our Plant Collagen mix, you can really improve the appearance of your skin.
Unlike bovine and marine collagen (which are sourced from animal skin and bones) Plant Collagen is a plant-based mix designed to boost your natural collagen, restore healthy skin, and improve elasticity. And thanks to its creamy, subtle vanilla taste, it goes great in lattes, smoothies, and more!
