Plant collagen: myth or reality in dietary supplements - Yes Global продукция

Plant collagen: myth or reality in dietary supplements? Extensive study

Section 1: Understanding of collagen: the basis of structure and youth

Collagen is not just a fashionable word in the world of beauty and health; This is a fundamental structural protein that makes up a significant part of our body. It is the main component of connective tissue, providing strength, elasticity and support of the skin, bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, blood vessels and even hair and nails. In fact, collagen acts as glue that holds everything together, ensuring the structural integrity and functionality of the body.

1.1. The structure and types of collagen

Collagen is not a homogeneous substance; It exists in many different types, each of which performs specialized functions in various fabrics. To date, more than 28 different types of collagen have been identified, but the most common and studied are: are:

Type and: The most common type, which makes up about 90% of the total collagen in the body. It is found in the skin, bones, tendons, ligaments and teeth, providing strength and resistance to stretching. Type I is responsible for the elasticity and elasticity of the skin, as well as for bone strength.
Type II: Mostly contained in cartilage, fabric, shock -absorbing joints. Type II is necessary to maintain joint health, providing flexibility and reducing friction between bones.
Type III: Located in the skin, blood vessels and intestines. Often coexists with type I collagen and contributes to the elasticity of tissues and the integrity of organs. It is important for healing wounds and maintaining the structure of blood vessels.
Type IV: It is the main component of basal membranes, thin layers supporting epithelial cells and endothelial cells (lining blood vessels). He plays a role in filtering and maintaining the structure of fabrics.
Type V: Contained in hair, placenta and cell surfaces. Participates in the formation of collagen fibrils and cellular adhesion.

The collagen molecule has a unique structure – a triple spiral consisting of three amino acid chains twisted together. This structure gives collagen exceptional strength and resistance to stretching. The main amino acids that make up the collagen are glycine, pier and hydroxyproline. Hydroxyproline is a modified form of a blank that requires vitamin C for its synthesis, which emphasizes the importance of this vitamin for the production of collagen.

1.2. Collagen synthesis and factors affecting its reduction

The human body is able to independently synthesize collagen from amino acids obtained from food. This process is complex and includes several stages that occur inside the cells called fibroblasts (in the skin) and chondrocytes (in cartilage).

Transcription and broadcast: The genes encoding collagen are transcribed to the MRNA, which is then transferred to polypeptide chains.
Modifications: Polypeptide chains are subjected to modifications, including hydroxylating of proline and lysine (a process that requires vitamin C).
Triple spiral: Three polypeptide chains are twisted into a triple spiral.
Secretion: The collagen molecule is secreted from the cage.
Fibrilogenesis: Collagen molecules are collected in fibrils, which are then sewn, forming durable collagen fibers.

However, with age, collagen synthesis naturally slows down. This process begins at about 25 years and accelerates over the years. A decrease in collagen production leads to various visible and invisible consequences:

Wrinkles and sagging skin: The loss of collagen in the skin leads to a decrease in elasticity and elasticity, which leads to the formation of wrinkles, thin lines and sagging of the skin.
Joint pain and osteoarthritis: A decrease in collagen in the cartilage of the joints leads to its thinning and degeneration, which can cause pain, stiffness and osteoarthritis.
Weakening of bones: Collagen is a significant part of the bone tissue. Its decrease leads to weakening of bones and increased risk of osteoporosis.
Thinning of hair and fragility of nails: Collagen plays a role in maintaining the health of hair and nails. Its deficiency can lead to thinning of the hair, their brittleness and slow growth, as well as to brittle and relaxation of nails.

In addition to age, other factors also affect the decrease in collagen synthesis: other factors:

Excessive exposure to the sun: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation damages collagen fibers and inhibits its synthesis.
Smoking: Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarette smoke damage collagen and elastin, accelerating the aging of the skin.
Inal meals: The deficiency of vitamin C, amino acids and other nutrients necessary for the synthesis of collagen can negatively affect its production.
High blood sugar: Glycation (binding of sugar with proteins) can damage collagen fibers, making them less elastic and functional.
Stress: Chronic stress can lead to the production of cortisol, a hormone that can destroy collagen.

Understanding the structure of collagen, the process of its synthesis and factors affecting its reduction is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of additives containing “plant collagen”.

Section 2: Animal collagen: sources, advantages and restrictions

Traditionally, collagen is obtained from animal tissues, which makes it the main ingredient in additions and cosmetics. Understanding the sources and processes of the production of collagen of animal origin is crucial for comparison with the declared “plant collagen”.

2.1. The main sources of animal collagen

The most common sources of animal collagen include:

Catual cattle (bullry collagen): Collagen obtained from bones, leather and cartilage cows. Types usually contains collagen.
Pigs (pork collagen): Collagen obtained from leather and bones of pigs. It also contains mainly collagen I and III.
Fish (sea collagen): Collagen obtained from leather, bones and scales of fish. Mostly contains type I collagen. Sea collagen is often advertised as having higher bioavailability due to the smaller size of the peptides molecules.
Chicken (chicken collagen): Collagen obtained from cartilage and bones of chickens. It contains mainly type II collagen, which is important for joint health.

2.2. The process of production of collagen of animal origin

The process of production of collagen of animal origin includes several stages:

Obtaining raw materials: Collection of animal tissues (leather, bones, cartilage) from certified suppliers.
Cleaning and processing: The fabrics are cleaned to remove pollution, such as fat and other proteins.
Collagen extraction: Collagen is extracted using various methods, including acidic or alkaline dissolution, as well as enzymatic hydrolysis.
Hydrolysis: Collagen is broken down into smaller peptides of collagen with enzymes. This process improves the bioavailability of collagen, since collagen peptides are easier to absorb by the body.
Filtering and cleaning: Collagen peptides are filtered and cleaned to remove impurities and improve quality.
Drying and grinding: The purified peptides of collagen are dried and crushed into powder.
Testing and quality control: The final product is tested for compliance with quality standards, including purity, safety and collagen concentration.

2.3. Advantages of animal collagen

Colligen of animal origin, especially hydrolyzed collagen, was carefully studied and has several confirmed advantages:

Improving the health of the skin: Studies have shown that taking additives with collagen can improve skin elasticity, moisturizing and reduce the depth of wrinkles. Collagen peptides stimulate fibroblasts in the skin to the production of more collagen and elastin.
Support for joints of the joints: Addresses with type II collagen obtained from chicken can help reduce joint pain and improve their function, especially in people with osteoarthritis. Collagen helps restore cartilage and reduce inflammation in the joints.
Strengthening bones: Collagen is an important component of bone tissue. Reception of additives with collagen can help increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Improving intestinal health: Some studies show that collagen can help improve the integrity of the intestinal mucosa and reduce inflammation in the intestine.
Increase in muscle mass: Collagen contains amino acids necessary for building muscle mass. Taking additives with collagen in combination with strength training can help increase muscle mass and strength.

2.4. Restrictions of animal collagen

Despite its advantages, animal collagen has some restrictions:

Allergies: Some people may have an allergy to animal collagen, especially to sea collagen (from fish).
Labels and sources: For people with dietary restrictions (for example, vegetarians, vegans, observing a freebie or kosher), animal collagen is unacceptable.
Safety and quality: The quality and safety of collagen of animal origin depends on the source and production processes. It is important to choose products from reliable manufacturers who are testing for pollution and comply with quality standards.
The risk of prion diseases: Although rarely, there is a theoretical risk of transmission of prion diseases such as spongy cattle encephalopathy (BSE), using collagen obtained from cattle. However, modern processing methods significantly reduce this risk.

Section 3: “Plant collagen”: disclosure of myth

The term “plant collagen” is misleading. In fact, plants do not produce collagen. Collagen is a protein unique to animals, including humans. Therefore, in nature, there is no such thing as “plant collagen”.

3.1. What are the additives with a “plant collagen” actually?

What is sold as a “plant collagen” is actually a mixture of plant ingredients designed to stimulate collagen production in the body. These ingredients usually include:

Vitamin C: It is necessary for the synthesis of collagen. He plays a role in the hydroxylating of the proline and lysine, which is important for stabilizing the triple spiral of collagen.
Amino acids: Proin, glycine and lysine are the main amino acids that make up collagen. The provision of these amino acids can provide the body with building blocks for the production of collagen.
Silicon: A trace element that plays a role in the synthesis of collagen and the formation of bones.
Antioxidants: Protect collagen from damage by free radicals. Antioxidants include vitamin E, green tea and grape seed extract.
Other plant extracts: Some plant extracts, such as the Asian Centella extract (Gotu Cola), can stimulate collagen production.

3.2. Scientific evidence of the effectiveness of “plant collagen”

The effectiveness of additives with “plant collagen” in stimulating collagen production and a significant effect on the health of the skin, joints and bones is the subject of disputes and limited scientific evidence.

Vitamin C: Studies show that vitamin C is necessary for collagen synthesis. However, one vitamin C may not be enough for a significant increase in collagen production, especially with age.
Amino acids: The provision of amino acids necessary for the synthesis of collagen can be useful. However, it is unclear how effective these amino acids are used for the production of collagen, and not for other purposes in the body.
Silicon: Some studies show that silicon can play a role in the synthesis of collagen and improve the health of the skin. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results.
Antioxidants: Antioxidants can help protect the collagen from damage, but they do not directly stimulate its production.
Plant extracts: Some plant extracts, such as the Asian Centella extract (Gotu Cola), showed in vitro studies (in a test tube) and on animals the ability to stimulate collagen production. However, additional studies are needed in public to confirm these results.

In general, scientific evidence confirming the effectiveness of additives with a “plant collagen”, relatively weak compared to studies that support animal collagen. Most studies conducted with “plant collagen” are in vitro or animals, and more large -scale and well -planned research in humans are needed to determine its true effectiveness.

3.3. Marketing tricks and inaccurate statements

The term “plant collagen” is often used for marketing purposes to attract consumers looking for vegetarian or vegan alternatives to animal collagen. It is important to be aware of marketing tricks and inaccurate statements related to these products.

Incorrect names: The use of the term “plant collagen” is misleading, since plants do not produce collagen.
Exaggerated statements: Some manufacturers make exaggerated statements about the effectiveness of their products with a “plant collagen”, without reinforcing them with sufficient scientific evidence.
Focus on individual ingredients: Marketing is often focused on individual ingredients, such as vitamin C or amino acids, without demonstrating that the entire formula is effective in stimulating collagen production.
Lack of transparency: Some manufacturers may not disclose the full ingredients or the concentration of their products with a “plant collagen”, which complicates the assessment of their effectiveness.

Section 4: Alternatives “Vegetable Collagen” for vegetarians and vegans

For vegetarians and vegans who want to support the production of collagen, there are more effective strategies than to rely on additives with a “plant collagen”.

4.1. Diet rich in nutrients supporting collagen

A balanced diet rich in certain nutrients can provide the body with the necessary building blocks and cofactors for collagen synthesis.

Vitamin C: Citrus fruits, berries, pepper, broccoli, spinach.
Proline: Soy, peanuts, tofu, pace.
Glycine: Beans, spinach, cabbage, pumpkin.
Lysine: Legumes, lentils, spirulina, Kinoa.
Silicon: Oats, rice, bananas, green leafy vegetables.
Zinc: Nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains.
Copper: Mushrooms, nuts, seeds, legumes.
Antioxidants: Berries, green tea, vegetables, fruits.

4.2. Additives with vitamin C and amino acids

Instead of relying on additives with a “plant collagen”, vegetarians and vegans can consider taking individual additives with vitamin C and amino acids (Prailin, Glycine and Lizin). This allows them to control the dosage and guarantee that they receive adequate levels of these important nutrients.

4.3. Protection of the existing collagen

Protection of the existing collagen in the body is also important for maintaining the health of the skin, joints and bones. This can be done by avoiding factors that damage collagen, such as:

Excessive exposure to the sun: Use sunscreen daily.
Smoking: Throw smoking.
High blood sugar: Maintain a healthy blood sugar level.
Stress: Manage stress using relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation.

4.4. Alternative collagen booster

Although the plants themselves do not contain collagen, some studies indicate potential collagen booster of plant origin.

Asian centella extract (Gotu Kola): This herbal extract has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and demonstrated in vitro studies the ability to stimulate collagen production.
Medicinal emblem extract (AMLA): AMLA, a rich source of vitamin C, also has antioxidant properties and can maintain collagen production.

Section 5: Final recommendations and tips for consumers

When considering additives advertised as “plant collagen”, it is important to approach them with critical thinking and realistic expectations.

Be skeptical to the statements: Remember that plants do not produce collagen. Products with “plant collagen” contain ingredients that can maintain collagen production, but their effectiveness can vary.
Check the list of ingredients: Look for products that contain vitamin C, amino acids (Proin, glycine, lysine), silicon and other nutrients that support the production of collagen.
Explore the manufacturer: Choose products from reliable manufacturers who test pollution and meet quality standards.
Consult a medical specialist: Before taking any new additives, especially if you have any basic diseases or you take medicines, consult your doctor.
Focus on general health: A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular physical exercises and a sufficient amount of sleep, is important for the health of the skin, joints and bones.

Ultimately, the best strategy for maintaining the production of collagen is the use of a balanced diet rich in nutrients necessary for the synthesis of collagen, to protect the existing collagen from damage and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Although additives with a “plant collagen” can be a useful addition to this, they should not be considered a magical solution to maintain health and youth.

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