August 20th, 2020

Did you know your body naturally produces

Did you know your body naturally produces collagen? Yup, the super protein that gives you a flawless complexion, and a youthful glow is actually made by YOU! Physiology is pretty cool, huh?

From powders to supplements, collagen seems to the topic on everyone’s radar. While many people are enthusiastic about adding a scoop of marine or bovine collagen to their morning smoothie, we suggest using plants to build your collagen levels.

Plus, vegan collagen has a higher safety profile than marine or bovine collagen and is free from pesticides, steroids, antibiotics, and insecticides that are often found in animal bones.

So, how do plants support your natural collagen production? We’re so glad you asked! Pull up a chair and sharpen your #2 pencil, because we’re about to school you on everything you should know about collagen and how a plant-based diet can help you create the youthful glow you’ve been daydreaming of.

Here’s the glow down on all things collagen.

Collagen is a protein that acts as a building block for your skin, hair, bones, muscles and tendons. Think of it as the glue that binds our bodies together!

Your body naturally produces collagen by breaking down dietary protein into amino acids. It’s then, that amino acids create different types of protein in your body, such as collagen. When you consume animal-derived collagen, your body must first absorb the collagen before it is circulated throughout the body. After that, the nutrients are distributed throughout your system where it may or may not be remade into collagen. However, when you consume plant-based protein and collagen-building superfoods, you’re supporting your body’s ability to produce more natural collagen.

Unfortunately, this production slows down as you age. Collagen levels begin to decrease in your mid-20’s, and by the time you reach your mid 40s, you’ve lost as much as 30% of collagen. Other factors, like smoking, poor diet, and excess sun exposure can also inhibit collagen production, however, all hope is not lost.

Although most signs of aging are inevitable, losing collagen doesn’t have to be thanks to three main collagen sources: vitamin c, minerals, and amino acids-- which can all be found in plant-based ingredients.  

Keep reading to learn how you can naturally boost collagen production and maintain younger-looking skin!

Your skin is made up of many layers. In the middle layer of the skin (the dermis) you’ll find collagen and elastin – two proteins that provide structure, support, and elasticity to the skin. When collagen levels are high, your skin is firm, soft, and smooth. (This is why it’s so popular among skincare gurus.)  

Think of collagen as the fountain of youth. It wards off wrinkles, fine lines, and can prevent sagging. But when collagen levels drop, these signs of aging become more apparent.

So, how can you keep your skin plump, and more youthful? By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and sticking to a plant-based diet. Consuming fruits and vegetables that are packed with beauty-boosting nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and E will impact your skin health from the inside out.

Written by Reigna