What is collagen and what is it for?

I'm sure it's not the first time you've heard about collagen. A family member or friend takes it, or you've probably seen it on pharmacy or supermarket shelves, but... What is it for?

Collagen is a vital protein for our body, representing 25% of our total protein mass. It is the main component of our bones and skin, and is also abundant in joints, tendons, hair, and muscles. It is a fundamental component for the proper functioning of our body.

Its main function is to provide strength and flexibility to our body, allowing us to stand and move, for example.

Collagen Metabolism

Our body naturally produces collagen. However, from the age of 30, and especially from 40, this ability to generate it gradually decreases. This results in symptoms related to aging both aesthetically and in terms of health:

• Mobility difficulties
• Joint inflammation
• Loss of skin elasticity
• Appearance of wrinkles
• Hair loss

Collagen and Diet

We can increase collagen synthesis through diet. Foods rich in vitamin C, silicon, and sulfur that stimulate this synthesis include:

• Vitamin C: red pepper, citrus fruits, leafy green vegetables, red berries...
• Sulfur: cucumber, garlic, onion, olives, celery
• Silicon: oats, banana, raisins, carrots, spinach

In some cases, consuming foods that stimulate collagen synthesis is not enough, and a supplement is necessary.

Collagen-based Supplements

An effective way to slow down the decrease of this structural component and avoid the health complications it entails is through a collagen-based supplement. Especially from the age of 40.

Generally, about 10g per day is recommended. However, the source of collagen will directly affect its absorption. The most well-known is hydrolyzed collagen.

They can be made from two sources:

• Animal origin: bovine
• Marine origin: fish and algae derivatives

WEIDER COLLAGEN PRODUCTS

On the market, you can find supplements focused on different specific objectives:

• Maintaining joint health
• Improving symptoms of a joint injury (sports)
• Beauty

At Weider, you can find a supplement for each of these objectives:

1. Weider Collagen is an essential supplement based on bovine hydrolyzed collagen, which ensures high bioavailability based on Peptan® to help maintain joint health.
2. Joint Collagen is an advanced product for bone and joint care. The formula has been developed on a base of hydrolyzed collagen, notable for containing the best functional ingredients used in joint care:
   • Turmeric extract (CURSOL): turmeric is widely known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
   • Organic silicon: silicon is a very important mineral in the synthesis of collagen and connective tissue.
   • Manganese mineral: fundamental for the proper synthesis of the basic structures of connective tissue and bones.