Prevent Aging: Natural Ways to Delay Collagen Loss
Collagen is essential for keeping skin young and bones strong, but it has been lost over the years. However, there are natural ways to delay its loss.
There is a protein present in our bodies whose main function is to provide strength and flexibility to our skin and bones. This protein is collagen, and it is found in our cells, accounting for a third of the total. It is closely linked to aging, which is why it is so important to maintain good levels in our bodies. Collagen has been lost over the years, but there are natural ways to delay its loss.
 |
| How to delay collagen loss naturally. |
Collagen is a protein produced by cells called fibroblasts, present in all animals and humans. Its main function is to bind connective tissues (muscles, tendons, ligaments, skin, bones, cartilage, and organs, among others). It is also present in blood vessels, intervertebral discs, the cornea, the scalp, teeth, and gums. From the age of 25 to 30, levels of this "natural glue" decrease, as the body produces less and less of it. When this happens, everything mentioned above also worsens. However, there are ways to delay its loss, for example through diet.
This is what you should do to prevent collagen loss.
The same goes for elastin or hyaluronic acid. Other elements that, along with collagen, ensure elasticity (elastin) and hydration of the skin and mucous membranes (hyaluronic acid). Excessive sunbathing, smoking, or continuous exposure to environmental pollution accelerates the decline in collagen levels. Fortunately, other habits protect against it.
 |
| This is what you should do to prevent collagen loss. |
Getting at least 7 hours of sleep increases melatonin, the sleep hormone. This has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce the signs of aging. Moderate exercise and a good diet form the perfect anti-aging combination, which benefits both our skin and our skeletal and muscular systems.
Food choices are low in sugars and refined flour. Excess sugar decreases the levels of proteins such as collagen and elastin. Food choices are very important, as some contain nutrients that are essential for the body to generate collagen. Some, like citrus fruits, for their vitamin C, or avocados, for their vitamin E.
Carrots, with their beta-carotene, and green leafy vegetables, for their multitude of antioxidants, are also recommended. Pumpkin seeds and berries are also very beneficial, as are lean meats, oily fish, eggs, legumes, and nuts. These will help maintain collagen formation.