By now you’ve probably heard about collagen and adding it to your morning coffee, teas etc. But what is collagen? What is it for? What are the benets? What’s the best form to take as a supplement?
What is collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body, and is mainly found in our connective tissues. It is acts as a building block for tissue regeneration and maintaining the structural integrity of tissues.
Types of collagen
Type I: the most abundant type and is found in our skin, tendons, blood vessels, organs and in our bones.
Type II: main component of cartilage
Type III: commonly found alongside Type I in our skin, tendons, blood vessels, organs, intestines
Type IV and V: are more specic. Type IV is found in the basement membrane and Type V is found on cell surfaces and hair
Benets of collagen
Skin, hair, nail health: (the most commonly known benet) it helps keep our skin hydrated and plump, increases elasticity of or skin, which reduces the appearance of ne line and wrinkles.
Cardiovascular health: helps support the structure of our blood vessels to ensure the smooth ow of blood to all our organs and tissues. This may be especially important for someone with plaque-build up due to high cholesterol and any other heart conditions.
Digestive health: collagen helps maintain the structure of our gut lining When dealing with chronic https://www.avenahealthclinic.com/2020/04/09/what-is-collagen-and-what-are-its-benefits/ 2/4
6/17/2021 What is collagen and what are its benefits? – Avena Health Clinic | Mississauga Naturopathic Clinic
Digestive health: collagen helps maintain the structure of our gut lining. When dealing with chronic
digestive inammation from food sensitivities, infections etc., the gut lining can become “leaky” and lose some of its barrier functions. Collagen can be a great addition to support gut healing once you have removed any (and all) aggravating factors.
Bone health: collagen is as an important component of cartilage and bones. Supplementation may be helpful to help support these tissues, lubricate our joints and help alleviate symptoms and slow th progression of osteoarthritis.
Collagen supplements
The best food source of collagen is bone broth, which can easily be made at home or you can buy it. My favourite is chicken and I make sure to add chicken feet for the most collagen!
If you’re looking for a supplement, then look for something that has:
Hydrolyzed collagen: this is when the collagen is found in smaller peptide units, which makes it easier to absorb.
Type I and III collagen: because these are the most common types found in hair, skin and nails. Bovine vs. marine collagen: this is based on preference. Bovine collagen is sourced from cows and marine is sourced from sh. There is mixed researched on whether or not one is more superior than the other.
How to add collagen to your daily routine
Generally, collagen supplements are found either in a powder, pill or liquid form. I personally use a powder, which can be easily dissolved in my morning coffee or tea. It is tasteless and does not alter the taste of my drinks!
I also incorporate bone broth regularly in my diet, about 2-3 times a week, as bone broth and herbal soups are very common in Chinese culture.
Yours in health,
Dr. Olivia Leung, ND