Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body. It is one of the major building blocks of bones, skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments. Endogenous collagen is natural collagen, synthesised by the body (the collagen our own body makes). Unfortunately the process of ageing causes collagen levels to deplete naturally over time. Exogenous collagen is synthetic, coming from an outside source, such as supplements. There are an increasing number of brands offering powders and pills to to provide a source of collagen. Often these are marketed for hair skin and nails- but actually the benefits go much further than a youthful glow.

There are a number of factors related to ageing that collagen may support:

Studies suggest collagen may help decrease the visible signs of ageing, including wrinkles, supporting skin elasticity, hydration and improving wound healing.
Collagen supports healthy joints by helping to maintain the integrity of cartilage, the rubber-like tissue protecting joints. With age, the amount of collagen in the body decreases, increasing risk of degenerative joint disorders.
Collagen support healthy bones. As bone mass deteriorates with age, collagen is required to keep bones strong and give them structure.
Collagen can support muscle mass with strength training, as a protein source for growth and repair.

Collagen and skin (that youthful glow we mentioned earlier)

The skin is the largest organ of the body, playing numerous roles in keeping our body healthy and protecting our body from the external environment. The health of our skin can be affected by multiple factors; including UV radiation, oxidative stress, nutrition, pollution and hormones. As we age our production of collagen declines, our skin weakens and this leads to fine lines, wrinkles and dry skin. Collagen is the main structural protein found in skin; approximately 80% of the skin’s dry weight is collagen. The major role of collagen fibres is to maintain the makeup of the skin, supporting skin elasticity, firmness and skin health. Hence, the link between collagen and ‘anti-aging” effects.

As we age our production of collagen declines, our skin weakens and this leads to fine lines, wrinkles and dry skin.

We need to look at skin health with a multidimensional lens. It’s important to note that there are nutrients that play a key role in the synthesis of collagen. If you want to support collagen production eating protein, colourful vegetables and fruit is essential. We also recommend adopting healthy sleep hygiene practices and stress management. If you’re looking to improve your health from all aspects including diet and lifestyle we recommend consulting with a qualified practitioner. Supplements should never be a replacement for a balanced diet. Due to the aforementioned benefits of collagen, we believe that foods fortified with collagen have a place in the meal planner.

If you’re looking to improve your health from all aspects including diet and lifestyle we recommend consulting with a qualified practitioner.

Collagen powders can be added to food in different ways. Stirred into hot and cold drinks and coffee and smoothies, cooked into soups and stews or baked into brownies. We have partnered with our friends at Locako to give our community a discount on all of their products including delicious collagen brownie bites, coffee creamers and collagen powders. All made with real food ingredients and no nasties!

Our discount code BARE10 will give you 10% Locako products.

Looking to seek advice from a qualified health practitioner?

Bare Health Studio is an online complementary health clinic offering 1:1 nutrition and naturopathy consultations. We have a supplement delivery service, which means your prescription will be delivered straight to our door.

Locako chia pudding

Ingredients:

3/4 cup preferred plant-based milk

¼ cup warm water

3 tbsp of chia seeds

1 tbsp of Locako Vanilla Creamer

Optional to serve: peanut butter, sliced banana, shredded coconut

Method:

Add Locako Vanilla Creamer to a bowl. Add warm water and stir until dissolved. Add chia seeds and milk and combine. Allow to sit for 30 minutes or overnight. Serve as is or with additional extras.

is collagen the fountain of youth?