Collagen is the most abundant protein in the our bodies. Did you know that 70% of skin, hair, nails and nearly 100% of connective tissues are collagen? Collagen holds you together: from the hairs on your head, to every inch of your skin, to your joint comfort and mobility. It even impacts the overall health of your gut, including your gut lining health. As we age our Collagen levels decrease. Thus as an elderly adult you may have up to 75% less collagen production as compared to those in young adulthood.
Some of the factors that contribute to loss of collagen are the following:
- Lack of enough sleep
- Sugar consumption
- Sun overexposure
- Diet low in antioxidants
- Low levels of activity and exercise
- Not enough vitamin C and zinc
- Free radicals
- Chicken or Beef Bone Broth,
- Adaptogenic herbs, including Ashwagandha, Holy Basil, Ginseng and Fo-Ti
- Vitamin C-rich foods like kiwi, oranges, lemons, broccoli, bell peppers and kale.
- Sulfur-rich foods like garlic, onions, egg yolks and cruciferous vegetables
- Antioxidant-rich herbs, turmeric, rosemary, green tea, acai and goji berries.