Collagen and vitamin C: the best duet for health
1. What is collagen? Key types and their functions
Collagen is the most common protein in the human body, which is about 30% of its total mass. It plays a vital role in maintaining the structure and integrity of various fabrics, including skin, bones, joints, tendons, ligaments and even blood vessels. Collagen forms a kind of «frame», ensuring the strength, elasticity and elasticity of these tissues. Without a sufficient amount of collagen, the body begins to age, wrinkles appear, joints weaken, bones become more fragile, and the risk of various diseases increases.
There are several types of collagen, each of which performs specific functions in the body. Here are the most common types:
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Type and: This is the most common type of collagen, which is about 90% of the total collagen in the body. It is found in the skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, teeth and other connective tissues. Type collagen provides the strength and elasticity of these tissues. It plays an important role in the healing of wounds and maintaining skin health.
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Type II: Basically contained in cartilage, which amortize the joints and provide their smooth movement. Type II collagen helps maintain joint health, reduces inflammation and relieve pain in arthritis. It is also important for maintaining the structure of the vitreous body of the eye.
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Type III: This type of collagen is found in the skin, muscles, blood vessels and organs. It helps to maintain the elasticity of these tissues and plays an important role in the healing of the wounds. It is often found with type I collagen.
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Type IV: Contained in basal membranes, thin layers of tissue that support cells and organs. Type IV collagen plays an important role in filtering and maintaining the structure of various fabrics. It is also important for the development of the embryo.
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Type V: This type of collagen is contained in the hair, placenta and some other fabrics. Its function has not been fully studied, but it is assumed that it plays a role in the formation of collagen fibers of other types.
Understanding various types of collagen and their functions allows you to better realize the importance of this protein for health and beauty. The replenishment of collagen deficiency, especially with age, can bring significant benefits for the body.
2. The role of vitamin C in the synthesis of collagen
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a water -soluble vitamin, which plays an important role in many processes in the body, including collagen synthesis. It not only promotes the production of collagen, but also protects it from damage.
Vitamin C acts as a cofactor for two key enzymes necessary for collagen synthesis:
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Snilhydroxylase: This enzyme is necessary for hydroxylation of the proline, the amino acids that are part of the collagen. The hydroxylation of the proline is necessary for the formation of a stable triple collagen spiral, which gives it strength and stability. Without a sufficient amount of vitamin C, this process is disturbed, which leads to the formation of weak and unstable collagen.
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Lisilgidroxylase: This enzyme is necessary for hydroxylation of lysine, another amino acid that is part of collagen. Lizin hydroxylation is necessary for the formation of transverse connections between collagen fibers, which gives them strength and elasticity. Without a sufficient amount of vitamin C, this process is also disturbed, which leads to a weakening of the collagen structure.
Thus, vitamin C plays an indispensable role in the formation of a strong and stable collagen. Vitamin C deficiency leads to a decrease in collagen synthesis and the formation of weak collagen, which can lead to various health problems, including:
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CINGA: This disease caused by a severe deficiency of vitamin C. Symptoms of scurvy include bleeding gums, teeth, weakness, fatigue, slow healing of wounds and joint pain. All these symptoms are associated with impaired collagen synthesis.
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Slow healing of wounds: Collagen plays an important role in the healing of wounds. Vitamin C deficiency can slow down this process, since the formation of a new collagen necessary for tissue restoration is disturbed.
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Skin problems: Collagen ensures the elasticity and elasticity of the skin. Vitamin C deficiency can lead to dry skin, wrinkles and a decrease in elasticity.
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Joint problems: Collagen is the main component of the cartilage that amorsate the joints. Vitamin C deficiency can lead to a weakening of cartilage and the development of joint pain.
3. The synergistic effect of collagen and vitamin C: why do they work better together
Collagen and vitamin C are a powerful combination that provides a synergistic health effect. They not only complement each other, but also enhance the action of each other.
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Improving collagen assimilation: Vitamin C, along with collagen, can improve the absorption of collagen in the body. Vitamin C helps to break down collagen into smaller peptides, which are easier to absorb in the intestines and reach target tissues.
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Increased collagen synthesis: As already mentioned, vitamin C is a cofactor for enzymes necessary for collagen synthesis. Together with collagen, taking vitamin C provides the body with the necessary building blocks and stimulates the production of its own collagen.
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Antioxidant Protection: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects collagen from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and tissues, including collagen. Vitamin C neutralizes free radicals and helps maintain the integrity of collagen.
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Improving the health of the skin: Collagen and vitamin C together contribute to improving the health of the skin. Collagen ensures the elasticity and elasticity of the skin, and vitamin C protects it from damage caused by ultraviolet radiation and other environmental factors. The combination of collagen and vitamin C can help reduce wrinkles, improve the complexion and make the skin more smooth and radiant.
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Joint strengthening: Collagen and vitamin C together contribute to the strengthening of the joints. Collagen provides structural support of cartilage, and vitamin C helps reduce inflammation and joint pain. The combination of collagen and vitamin C can help improve joint mobility and relieve arthritis symptoms.
4. The health benefits from taking collagen and vitamin C
Reception of collagen and vitamin C can bring significant benefits for health, especially with age, when the natural production of collagen in the body decreases. Here are some of the most important advantages:
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Improving the health of the skin: Collagen and vitamin C can help reduce wrinkles, improve complexion, increase the elasticity and elasticity of the skin, as well as moisturize it. They can also help protect the skin from damage caused by ultraviolet radiation and other environmental factors. Studies have shown that the intake of collagen and vitamin C can significantly improve the skin condition in middle -aged women.
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Joint strengthening: Collagen and vitamin C can help reduce joint pain, improve joint mobility and protect cartilage from damage. They can also help slow down the progression of arthritis. Studies have shown that the intake of collagen and vitamin C can significantly improve the condition of the joints in people with osteoarthritis.
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Strengthening bones: Collagen is an important component of bones. Reception of collagen and vitamin C can help strengthen the bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Studies have shown that the intake of collagen and vitamin C can increase the bone density in women in postmenopause.
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Improving the health of hair and nails: Collagen is an important component of hair and nails. The reception of collagen and vitamin C can help strengthen hair and nails, make it healthier and brilliant, as well as accelerate their growth. Studies have shown that the intake of collagen and vitamin C can improve the condition of hair and nails in women with brittle nails.
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Improving intestinal health: Collagen can help restore the intestinal mucosa and improve digestion. It can also help reduce inflammation in the intestines. Vitamin C can help protect the intestinal mucosa from damage. The combination of collagen and vitamin C can be especially useful for people with irritable intestines (IBS) or other digestive problems.
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Acceleration of wound healing: Collagen and vitamin C play an important role in wound healing. Reception of collagen and vitamin C can help accelerate wound healing, reduce inflammation and improve the formation of cicatricial tissue.
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Improving the health of the cardiovascular system: Collagen is an important component of blood vessels. Reception of collagen and vitamin C can help strengthen blood vessels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Vitamin C is also an antioxidant that helps protect blood vessels from damage.
5. Sources of collagen: food products and additives
There are two main ways to obtain collagen: through food products and through additives.
Coopeal food sources:
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Bone broth: This is one of the best sources of collagen. Bone broth is made by prolonged boiling of animal bones, such as chicken, beef or fish. This process allows you to extract collagen from bones and cartilage.
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Gelatin: Gelatin is a form of hydrolyzed collagen, which is obtained by processing collagen with high temperature. Gelatin can be used to prepare jelly, mousses and other desserts.
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Chicken skin: The skin of the chicken contains a large amount of collagen.
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Fish and seafood: The skin and bones of fish contain collagen. Especially rich in collagen salmon, tuna and cod.
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Eggs: Egg membranes contain collagen.
Collagen additives:
Collagen additives are available in various forms, including powders, capsules, tablets and liquids. They are made from various sources, such as:
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Bully collagen: It is made of cow bones and skins.
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Fish collagen (sea collagen): It is made of fish leather and bones.
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Chicken collagen: It is made of chicken bones and cartilage.
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Pork collagen: It is made of pork bones and skins.
The most common forms of collagen in additions:
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Hydrolyzed collagen (collagen peptides): This is a form of collagen, which was split into smaller peptides to facilitate absorption. Hydrolyzed collagen is the most common form of collagen in addition.
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Teenatted collagen type II: This form of collagen retains its natural structure. It is used to maintain joint health.
When choosing a collagen additive, it is important to consider the following factors to consider:
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Collagen source: Choose the source of collagen, which meets your needs and preferences. For example, if you are a vegetarian, you can choose a vegetable collagen (which actually stimulates the production of collagen, and does not contain it).
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Type of collagen: Select the type of collagen that corresponds to your goals. For example, if you want to improve skin health, you can choose a type of I and III collagen. If you want to strengthen the joints, you can choose a type II collagen.
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Collagen form: Choose the form of collagen, which is convenient for you. Collagen powder can be added to drinks or food. Capsules and collagen tablets are easy to take.
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Collagen quality: Choose a collagen supplement from a trusted manufacturer, which guarantees the quality and purity of the product.
6. Sources of vitamin C: food and additives
Vitamin C can be obtained from various foods and additives.
Food sources of vitamin C:
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Citrus fruit: Oranges, lemons, grapefruits, tangerines.
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Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, cranberries.
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Vegetables: Broccoli, pepper (especially red and yellow), spinach, cabbage.
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Tropical fruits: Guava, Kiwi, Mango, Papaya.
Vitamin C additives:
Vitamin C additives are available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, powders and liquids. The most common forms of vitamin C are in addition:
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Ascorbic acid: This is the most common and affordable form of vitamin C.
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Sodium Ascorbat: This is a softer form of vitamin C, which can be better tolerated by people with a sensitive stomach.
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Calcium ascorbate: This is another soft form of vitamin C, which contains calcium.
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Esther-C: This is the patented form of vitamin C, which is claimed, it is better absorbed by the body and remains in the body longer.
When choosing the additive of vitamin C, it is important to consider the following factors:
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Vitamin C shape: Select the form of vitamin C that suits you. If you have a sensitive stomach, you can choose a sodium ascorbate or calcium ascorbate.
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Vitamin C dosage: The recommended daily dose of vitamin C is 75 mg for women and 90 mg for men. However, some people may need a higher dose, especially if they smoke, are in a stressful situation or have certain diseases.
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The quality of vitamin C: Choose the additive of vitamin C from a trusted manufacturer, which guarantees the quality and purity of the product.
7. Dosage and method of taking collagen and vitamin C
The dosage and method of taking collagen and vitamin C depend on your individual needs and goals.
Collagen:
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Recommended dosage: Most studies show that the effective dose of collagen is from 2.5 to 15 grams per day.
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Method accepts: Collagen can be taken at any time of the day, with or without food. Many people prefer to add collagen powder to coffee, smoothies or yogurt.
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Duration of admission: To achieve visible results, it is recommended to take a collagen for at least 8-12 weeks.
Vitamin C:
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Recommended dosage: The recommended daily dose of vitamin C is 75 mg for women and 90 mg for men. However, some people may need a higher dose, especially if they smoke, are in a stressful situation or have certain diseases. The upper limit of vitamin C consumption is 2000 mg per day.
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Method accepts: Vitamin C is best taken with food, as this can improve its assimilation. If you take a high dose of vitamin C, divide it into several tricks during the day to avoid stomach disorder.
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Duration of admission: Vitamin C can be taken daily for a long time.
Combined technique:
When taking collagen and vitamin C, it is recommended to take vitamin C together with the collagen to ensure the optimal synthesis of collagen.
Important! Before taking any additives, including collagen and vitamin C, it is recommended to consult a doctor, especially if you have any diseases or you take any medicine.
8. Side effects and contraindications
In general, collagen and vitamin C are considered safe for most people. However, in some cases, side effects may occur.
Collagen:
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Light side effects: Some people can experience light side effects, such as bloating, heartburn or nausea.
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Allergic reactions: Some people may have an allergy to collagen, especially if it is obtained from fish or mollusks.
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Interaction with drugs: Collagen can interact with some drugs such as anticoagulants.
Vitamin C:
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Light side effects: When taking high doses of vitamin C, light side effects can occur, such as diarrhea, nausea or abdominal pain.
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Kidneys: High doses of vitamin C can increase the risk of kidney stones in people predisposed to this.
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Interaction with drugs: Vitamin C can interact with some drugs such as anticoagulants and some antidepressants.
Contraindications:
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Collagen: Collagen is contraindicated in people with allergies to any of its components.
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Vitamin C: Vitamin C is contraindicated for people with hemochromatosis (an excess of iron in the body) and renal failure.
Important! If you have any diseases or you take any medication, before taking collagen and vitamin C, be sure to consult a doctor.
9. Collagen and vitamin C in cosmetics: external use
Collagen and vitamin C are widely used in cosmetics for skin care. They can be added to creams, serums, masks and other products for external use.
Collagen in cosmetics:
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Moisturization of the skin: Collagen has moisturizing properties and can help improve the moisturism of the skin.
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Improving skin elasticity: Collagen can help improve skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles.
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Skin protection: Collagen can help protect the skin from damage caused by ultraviolet radiation and other environmental factors.
Vitamin C in cosmetics:
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Antioxidant Protection: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
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Lighting leather: Vitamin C can help lighten the skin and reduce pigmentation.
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Collagen synthesis stimulation: Vitamin C can help stimulate collagen synthesis in the skin.
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Reducing inflammation: Vitamin C can help reduce inflammation in the skin.
Combined use in cosmetics:
The combination of collagen and vitamin C in cosmetics can provide a synergistic effect for the health of the skin. Collagen provides hydration and improves skin elasticity, and vitamin C protects it from damage and stimulates collagen synthesis.
When choosing cosmetics with collagen and vitamin C, it is important to consider the following factors:
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The concentration of ingredients: Choose a product with a fairly high concentration of collagen and vitamin C to get a visible effect.
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Form of ingredients: Choose a product with well-absorbed forms of collagen and vitamin C. For example, hydrolyzed collagen and L-asporbic acid are considered the most effective forms of collagen and vitamin C for external use.
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Other ingredients: Pay attention to other ingredients in the product. Some ingredients can enhance the effect of collagen and vitamin C, while others can irritate the skin.
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Reviews: Read the reviews of other users to find out about the effectiveness of the product.
10. Collagen and vitamin C: myths and facts
There are many myths and facts around collagen and vitamin C. It is important to distinguish between the truth from fiction in order to make reasonable decisions about your health.
Myths:
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Myth: Collagen taken inside does not reach the skin. Fact: Studies have shown that collagen peptides obtained when taking collagen inward can be absorbed in the intestines and reach the skin, where they can stimulate the synthesis of collagen and improve its condition.
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Myth: Vitamin C can only be obtained from citrus fruits. Fact: Vitamin C is contained in many fruits and vegetables, in addition to citrus fruits. These include berries, pepper, broccoli and spinach.
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Myth: Collagen is equally effective for everyone. Fact: The effectiveness of collagen can vary depending on individual factors, such as age, health and lifestyle.
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Myth: The more vitamin C, the better. Fact: taking high doses of vitamin C does not necessarily bring more benefits and may even lead to side effects. It is important to observe the recommended daily dose.
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Myth: Collagen in cosmetics penetrates deep into the skin. Fact: Collagen molecules are too large to penetrate deep into the skin. However, collagen in cosmetics can moisturize the skin and improve its appearance.
Facts:
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Fact: Vitamin C is necessary for the synthesis of collagen. Vitamin C is a cofactor for enzymes necessary for collagen synthesis.
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Fact: Collagen can help improve joint health. Collagen is the main component of cartilage and can help reduce joint pain and improve their mobility.
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Fact: Collagen can help strengthen the bones. Collagen is an important component of bones and can help increase their density.
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Fact: Reception of collagen and vitamin C together can enhance their action. Vitamin C helps to absorb collagen and stimulates its synthesis.
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Fact: The quality of the additives of collagen and vitamin C can vary. It is important to choose additives from trusted manufacturers that guarantee the quality and cleanliness of the product.
Understanding these myths and facts will help you make reasonable decisions about your health and beauty.