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Can Collagen Soup Make You Look Younger?
In the quest for radiant and youthful skin, people are constantly seeking new and innovative ways to enhance their skincare routines. One trend that has gained traction in recent years is the consumption of collagen-rich broth or soup.
Proponents argue that collagen, the structural protein abundant in our skin, could hold the key to achieving that coveted glow. Let’s explore the science behind collagen consumption and its potential impact on skin health.
Understanding Collagen
Collagen is the most abundant structural protein that serves as a fundamental building block in our bodies. It constitutes a significant portion of the skin, connective tissues, bones, tendons, cartilage, and teeth. Collagen provides strength, structure, and elasticity to various tissues, playing a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and functionality of these bodily structures. Making up about 70 – 80% of the skin, collagen plays a pivotal role in maintaining skin strength and elasticity, giving it a youthful and plump appearance.
Why Do We Need More Collagen?
The production of collagen is a dynamic process that occurs naturally in the body. Fibroblasts, specialised cells, are responsible for synthesising collagen. However, as we age, our natural collagen production decreases, contributing to the development of wrinkles, sagging skin, weakening of joints and loss of bone density. Additionally, extrinsic factors, such as excessive exposure to UV rays, pollution, smoking and an unhealthy diet can also expedite the reduction in our collagen levels as well – which is why many are sold on the idea of increasing their collagen intake to counter these negative effects.
So, Can Our Body Absorb Collagen We Consume?
Many people seek to boost their collagen levels through dietary sources, like collagen-rich foods or supplements, with the hope of promoting skin health and reducing signs of ageing. While this idea may be appealing, experts suggest that things may not work this way.
The collagen molecules that we externally consume are too large to be absorbed directly by the body through digestion. When we consume collagen-rich foods or supplements, our digestive system needs to break the collagen down into peptides before it can enter the bloodstream. These peptides may have to be further broken down into amino acids that make proteins like keratin to help form our skin.
Moreover, there’s no way we can designate the allocation of the nutrients in our body. The collagen that is broken down into amino acids, just like any other proteins, is transported to whichever part of the body that needs it most, and there is no way we can ensure that it will go straight to our skin.
While the consumption of collagen-rich foods or supplements may not speed up collagen production in your skin or result in skin-plumping effects, it does not imply any negative impact on your health. If you are considering trying collagen supplements, it is always advisable to consult your doctor before trying any new supplements.
Boosting Collagen Levels in Our Skin
For those seeking more direct and proven methods to boost collagen in the skin, there are a range of options available, including lifestyle adjustments, skincare products and anti-ageing treatments.
Embracing lifestyle modifications, such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol and sugar intake, and adopting a balanced diet, can slow down the reduction of collagen levels in the skin.
Complementing these changes, there is a range of skincare products formulated to promote collagen production. Radium’s Ageless EGF Repair Serum is specially infused with Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), a cell-signalling polypeptide to set off a cascade of skin renewal and repair. Adopting the habit of regularly wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 50 daily can further safeguard the skin from harmful UV rays, preventing collagen breakdown and preserving its youthful integrity.
Additionally, individuals may explore anti-ageing treatments, designed to target and boost collagen, offering a more direct and comprehensive approach to achieving youthful and resilient skin. One notable option is Tixel – a non-invasive skin rejuvenation procedure. Tixel employs Thermo-Mechanical Ablative (TMA) technology to transfer thermal energy to the skin, stimulating collagen production to reduce appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve overall skin texture.
While sipping on collagen broth or soup may offer some nutritional benefits, the evidence supporting its direct impact on skin health remains inconclusive. Instead of relying solely on dietary collagen, incorporating proven skincare products and treatments into your routine may be a more effective strategy. Tixel and other collagen-boosting options can provide targeted results, helping you achieve the radiant and youthful skin you desire. Remember, the key to healthy skin lies in a holistic approach, combining proper nutrition, skincare, and lifestyle choices for optimal results.
