Collagen supplements are incorporated into the diet, typically in the form of a capsule, to lessen the severity of arthritis and pain deriving from the bones, to support healing and to enhance the skin’s appearance. The protein collagen is found in abundance in mammals, including humans, and is a component of connective tissue, including that found in the skin, teeth, cartilage, organs, bone and tendons. Collagen supports the body’s soft tissues and promotes healing. A nutritious diet should provide the necessary constituents for the construction of collagen. However, collagen supplements are taken by many to enable them to improve bone and joint pain management or to stimulate an appearance of youth.
Collagen supplements come in many varieties and the type that should be used depends upon the reason for supplementation. Collagen supplements with glucosamine are recommended for arthritis or injuries of an orthopedic nature. Glucosamine supports healing of the joints and can lead to improved motility and a reduction in pain. Collagen supplements which contain collagen II are often specified to be of help to those suffering from arthritis. Collagen II is the fundamental consistent of hyaline cartilage – tissue which covers the bone ends to create the surface of a joint.
Individuals who wish to improve the appearance of their skin, hair and nails are advised to select formulas which do not contain glucosamine. Glucosamine supplementation is unnecessary if joint health is not a concern. In addition to this, collagen supplements lacking glucosamine are less expensive. Collagen I and collagen II are often contained within collagen supplements which do not contain glucosamine. Both collagen I and collagen II are found in abundance in the skin. Collagen creams and collagen facials are available as the main treatments for anti aging skin care
Several collagen supplement dosages are available for purchase. A maximum of 5 – 6 grams of collagen should be taken per day if collagen is to be used solely for cosmetic purposes while a greater amount may be necessary to deal with pain of the joints or bones. A maximum of 10 grams of collagen can be taken daily by individuals suffering from arthritis. Collagen is a water-soluble protein and as a result, excess collagen is rapidly excreted from the body. This means that excessive supplementation of collagen is wasteful rather than harmful.
Now as to foods that increase collagen in the body are
Citrus fruits like organs, lemons and strawberries are the best source of Vitamin C which in turn produces collagen.
Soy products are another source of stimulation collagen. They have genistein which helps to block the enzymes which cause the collagen degradation
Dark green leafy vegetables are also those which can give a boost to collagen .
To maximize collagen supplementation efficacy, sufficient dietary Vitamin C and lysine is essential. Vitamin C is required for collagen construction and for this reason many collagen supplements contain this vitamin. Alpha Lipoic Acid maximizes the efficacy of Vitamin C and as a result its supplementation is considered beneficial. In addition, Alpha Lipoic Acid functions as an antioxidant – it aids in reducing swelling and joint pain.