Collagen is an extremely important part of our bodies. It is a protein that provides us with bone and joint support, promotes healthy tissue growth, supports important gut functions, and so much more. Due to the prevalence of this substance in our bodies, it is important to know what marine collagen actually does for our health and wellbeing.
Our bodies make collagen through combining amino acids from protein rich foods. To make collagen, our bodies also need vitamin C, zinc, and copper. This means a good diet is integral for collagen production. Foods like meat, fish, dairy, eggs, citrus fruits, nuts, and beans are all important parts of this process.
Continue reading to hear more on:
- What is marine collagen?
- What are the health and beauty benefits of marine collagen?
- How to incorporate marine collagen into your diet.
What is Marine Collagen?
Marine collagen is a type 1 collagen, which is the most prevalent in our bodies. This kind of collagen is found in fish skin. Type 1 collagen is important for many aspects of our bodies' well being, and therefore we should be mindful of incorporating it into our diets. Marine collagen is a great option for those who refrain from eating red meat since it is a fish based product and many other types of collagen (like bovine) are sourced from red meat. Another plus is that it does not have a fishy taste or smell. This type of collagen has numerous health benefits and is an extremely important part of our bodies ability to function at the highest level it is able.
Though all types of collagen are important and made up by the same amino acids, marine collagen differs in the amount. Marine collagen has more of the Glycine and Proline amino acids that are important in the healthy growth of hair, skin, and nails. Along with this, it is also absorbed into the body faster than other types of collagen. These reasons are a few of the several that have caused marine collagen to become extremely popular as of late.
What are the Health and Beauty Benefits of Marine Collagen?
The benefits of marine collagen cannot be understated. Here are just a few of the numerous benefits that marine collagen can provide us:
Skin: Marine collagen has high levels of the amino acid hydroxyproline which is essential for the skin, blood vessel walls, and other connective tissues. It also helps keep our skin supple and flexible, which helps reduce wrinkles and signs of aging. In addition, marine collagen aids in the rebuilding of tissues and increases the elasticity of our skin. It has also been proven to increase moisture levels in the skin and protect against UV exposure.
Joint Pain: Marine collagen helps stimulate cartilage production. Cartilage helps joints move smoothly as well as covers and protects bones. When we age, our joints become stiff, making it more difficult to exercise, move, change positions, and get up. This can be due to low levels of collagen. Tendon and ligament pain and inflammation can also be caused by low collagen levels. By consuming marine collagen, these negative side effects of aging can be diminished.
Heart: Marine collagen can help improve cardiovascular health due to the fact that a main amino acid, proline, is found in it. Proline helps release fat build up and clear artery walls leading to better circulation and improved cardiovascular health.
It is important to note that you may take collagen to improve the health of your skin, hair, and nails, but if another area of your body is in need of collagen, then that area will reap the benefits of the collagen you are taking.
How to Incorporate Marine Collagen Into Your Diet.
The importance of eating right and knowing when it is time to add a supplement into your diet.
As we age, our body's level of type 1 collagen begins to decline. This can begin as early as 25. Aside from age, lifestyle choices are an important component to look into when considering collagen levels. For example, collagen production and levels can be lowered by high cortisol levels, smoking, poor sleep, low levels of vitamin C, and UV rays. When this happens, a second look at your diet or purchasing supplements will help the production of collagen.
To incorporate marine collagen into your diet try these options:
- Bone broth, which can be drunk as a tea or used in place of stock or water when cooking. You can either make it yourself (try this recipe) or purchase it at the store.
- Marine Collagen Peptides, which can be added to smoothies, oatmeal, coffee, etc.
- Collagen rich foods like fish, spinach, beets, kale, and garlic.
While our bodies produce collagen through many of the foods we eat such as lean meats, tofu, eggs, dairy, and mushrooms it is important to supplement this as well. Dr. Emil’s collagen supplement has five collagen peptides in the form of fast absorbing capsules that help support healthy bones, joints, and digestion along with several other health benefits.
Collagen is an extremely important puzzle piece within our bodies. Each type has their own special way of making sure our body is functioning at its highest capacity. A healthy diet is key to collagen production, but supplements go a long way, especially when one takes a look at their age and personal habits.
To learn more about different types of collagen, click here.
Main Image courtesy of Everyday Health.
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