Did you ever wonder why it is that as you grow older your skin seems dryer, sags more and reflects more lines and wrinkles? These changes in your skin as you age are due in part to your body producing less collagen than when you were younger.
Your major body organs are connected to skeletal bones through the collagen in connective tissue. The dermal layer of your skin is comprised in large part (about 75%) of collagen. This is why as your age and collagen production declines, so often, does the quality of your skin.
Your muscles, tendons, hair, eyes and many other parts of your body also contain collagen. Collagen is a protein in your body. Only your body can produce collagen. This means you will not find collagen in any of the foods you eat. You are probably wondering how you can make sure your body has more collagen. There are collagen supplements you can take. It is best to talk to your healthcare provider in order to find the best supplements for you.
You should also know that Vitamin C is one of the primary factors in the stimulation of new collagen production. Due to too much time in the sun, a poor diet and any number of other factors, you might be deficient in Vitamin C as well. Once again, you should consider taking supplements with Vitamin C. There are foods you can eat that will provide your body with more Vitamin C. Again, you can talk to your doctor for advice.
Be good to your skin and help to protect the collagen and improve the production of Collagen. Protect your skin by reducing sun exposure especially during the times of the day when the sun’s rays are the brightest. You should wear an SPF sunscreen of 15 or higher even on the days when you do not see much sunlight.
Include a healthy diet and exercise routine in your life. Do not consume much alcohol and do not smoke. Smoking is bad for collagen, for your skin and your overall health. Take good care of your skin and your body so that it can take good care of you.
