Collagen!! A buzz word in the skin and beauty industry. But what is it and why do we need it?
What is collagen & why do we need it?
Collagen comes from “kólla”, the Greek word for glue. Which is fitting as collagen is seen as the glue that holds our tissues and cells together to provide its structure, strength, and integrity. It is the most abundant protein in our bodies.
Collagen is the protein responsible for skin elasticity. It also plays a role in joint and bone health. Naturally produced within our body, it is the main structural protein and is found in connective tissues, including cartilage, tendons, bones, and ligaments.
It is estimated that collagen accounts for up to 35% of your body’s protein content.
Collagen is made up of amino acids such as glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline (the building blocks of proteins). They are vital to the synthesis of hormones and neurotransmitters. Glycine, is the immunenutrient that supports healthy inflammation
Collagen & Ageing
As we grow older, our natural collagen levels slowly start to deplete. As I reach another birthday, I start to become more aware of the structural changes that begin to take place, regarding the tone, texture and appearance of my skin.
As early as your 20s collagen production starts to deplete, if you add in to the mix environmental aggressors and lifestyle choices you can accelerate the ageing process.
Most of us would like to maintain a healthy and radiant complexion, and the levels of collagen available will have a contributing factor regarding the way our skin ages.
How to boost and maintain your collagen levels
• Include an SPF in your morning routine
UV exposure longterm, can lead to the degradation of collagen and elastin in the skin. This will lead to an increase of the visible signs of ageing, including wrinkles and loss of volume in the skin. It is recommended to use a broad spectrum SPF 30 (or higher) to defend and deflect away these harmful rays.
• Facial Massage
By introducing facial massage into your daily or weekly skincare routine you help to enhance oxygen assimilation between the cells whilst boosting the circulatory system. Facial massage will strengthen muscle memory and relax tense muscles to give an instant skin rejuvenation effect.
• Cut down on sugar
A diet high in refined sugars can cause a process called Glycation - the bonding of a sugar molecule to a protein or lipid molecule without enzymatic regulation, which highly contributes to the ageing process. During glycation, toxic compounds called Advanced Glycation End Products or AGEs are produced. This leads to the body releasing antibodies, causing inflammation within the skins structures. At a cellular level the barrier function of the skin can be compromised as well as collagen and elastin becoming weakened. This becomes visible through the appearance of lines, wrinkles and loss of volume.
• Keep Hydrated
By drinking enough fluids throughout the day and maintaining hydration levels within the body, this will create a nourished environment for your collagen and elastin production. That’s usually why you see a bounce and radiance to ones skin, as the hydration levels are optimum and cells are functioning to their full capability.
• Do not smoke
Smoking is not good for you - we all know this but with regards to it’s relation with the health of your skin, why should you stop right now....?!
Smoking effects collagen levels by destroying the proteins and restricting blood flow to the tissues. The depletion of these proteins will lead to the manifestation of deep set wrinkles, especially around the mouth and eye area due to the natural thinning of the skin in this area. Dry, leathery skin will also be the end result if you continue to subject your body to cigarettes.
• Foods that contribute to collagen production
Protein-rich foods, like meat, eggs, fish and seafood, beans, and dairy will all supply your body with a range of amino acids needed to make collagen. Any supplements taken should be part of a well rounded diet.
Also known to support collagen formation is Vitamin C. Focusing on the reduction of oxidative damage which is partly responsible for the degradation of collagen and elastin with ing the skin. Strawberries broccoli, spinach and kiwi fruits are all great choices to include in your daily diet.
• Supplements
One of the options available to increase Collagen levels within the skin are supplements. They are formulated to help enhance the way your skin, hair, and nails look, feel, and function. They are usually available in either capsule, powder or liquid form.
LQ collagen have discovered research that states, liquid supplements will ensure that you receive 85-90% of the ingredients, where your body only absorbs 10-20% of the ingredients from pills.
By taking the recommend intake of collagen, studies have found that it has a positive impact on thinning hair, skin wrinkles and brittle nails. Whilst also improving the overall plumpness and firmness of the skin.
LQ Collagen - Skin Hair Nails Supplement [AD]
With a recent rebranding and the addition of the NEW LQ Powder Supplements, these new beauty formulations include a selection of key mineral and vitamin ingredients to help promote skin, hair and nail health.
Key Ingredients
Hydrolysed Marine Collagen
Per 15g serving you will receive 10,000mg
A natural protein and a key building block of the skin.
It is sourced from fish and is therefore not suitable for
vegetarians.
“The hydrolysation process breaks down the collagen into peptides so they are more easily absorbed by the body. Which is why we use it.” LQ Liquid health state that this type of marine collagen (hydrolysed) is the highest quality available for supplementations.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1000 times its own weight in water. As we age, the natural production of hyaluronic acid slows, and this can lead to the premature signs of ageing in the skin.
Biotin
Also known as vitamin B7, contributes to the maintenance of healthy skin and hair
Selenium
Is an essential mineral that contributes toward healthy skin and nail growth.
Vitamin C
A powerful antioxidant, vital for normal collagen formation and maintain the functions of the skin.
Vitamin C is a key ingredient in the process known as hydroxylation. This process helps stabilise your body's natural collagen and your body’s ability to produce it.
Directions for Use
Add one level scoop (15g) of powder to 150ml cold water, stir vigorously until the powder is completely dissolved, then drink immediately. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.
Top Tip add one level scoop to your smoothies!
Not suitable for children, pregnant or lactating women.
For more information and to address FAQ please visit LQ Liquid Health by clicking HERE
I look forward to sharing my thoughts and honest reviews with you once I have completed the full course of 20 servings.
