Evolution has designed our bodies to produce the things they need for healthy functioning. But like any machine, the human body does not always work as it should or loses its youthful capabilities as we age. Sometimes, we don’t produce hormones, proteins, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, or other natural compounds and chemicals at the rate or levels we need. And while nature has provided us with an abundance of foods which can deliver these essential substances, our modern diets of processed or fast food mean we often fail to take advantage of nature’s bounty as we should.
That’s where dietary supplements come in and that’s why they are so popular. Supplements are expected to be a $278 billion industry by 2024. This includes supplements designed to boost collagen levels. A sufficient amount of collagen is the key to strong, healthy, and more youthful-looking skin. Collagen supplements can play a role in boosting collagen levels when you don’t produce enough naturally or get enough through your diet.
What is Collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies. Collagen is found in tendons, fat, and ligaments, as well as in our skin. Along with another protein called elastin, collagen is the substance that gives our skin a healthy texture and shape. An insufficient amount of collagen can lead to wrinkles and sagging skin.
Like all proteins, collagen is comprised of amino acids. These compounds play a key role in repairing body tissues, making them particularly beneficial to skin health. By boosting the number of amino acids, your body will be better able to combat premature signs of aging by fortifying the skin and underlying connective tissues.
Multiple studies have shown that collagen peptides or supplements containing collagen can help reduce wrinkles and dryness. The supplements not only provide the body with additional collagen, but they can also stimulate the body’s own ability to produce collagen. The more collagen your body has, the more it can create, so taking supplements can have a domino effect on your collagen levels. Similarly, collagen supplements may also promote the production of other proteins that contribute to healthy skin structure, such as elastin and fibrillin.
In addition to collagen supplements, other dietary supplements can contribute to your body’s collagen production. For example, increasing your vitamin C intake through supplements is an effective way to increase your amino acid levels, which in turn boosts the amount of collagen in your body.
Raising your collagen levels is one of the best and easiest ways to keep your skin healthy and youthful. As an adjunct to a healthy diet, collagen supplements – safe and readily available – can play a useful role in making that happen.
Dr. Mariano Busso: Your Partner in Healthy Skin
Dr. Mariano Busso is an expert in all things skincare and aesthetics, coaching physicians all over the country on his innovative techniques and quality of care. If you would like to learn more about how Dr. Busso can help you improve your appearance, self-confidence, and well-being, please call our Miami-Coconut Grove clinic today at 305-857-0144 to schedule your consultation.