What is collagen?

        By now, you've probably heard the word "collagen" being thrown around somewhere. But what is it? Here's the answer.

Collagen is a protein in the body that makes up connective tissue such as our tendons, ligaments, skin, and also our bones, hair, nails and teeth. As we age our bodies produce less collagen, which leads to less firm skin and wrinkles. Collagen supplements on the market promise to help us get great skin, nails, hair, and all that. But does it really do that? The answer is that there are actually some benefits to taking these collagen supplements, but at the same time it is not 100percent proven to provide the benefits that you are seeking. Also, studies show that eating collagen does not necessarily raise the amount of collagen in our bodies, when you eat something containing collagen it is broken down in our digestive system and the collagen you absorb does not exactly equate to higher levels of collagen in your body. Also the collagen you absorb may not go to the area that you want it to go(for example your skin or hair). Chicken skin, pork skin, beef, fish, and bone broth are foods that contain collagen.

     I prefer to get most of my nutrients and vitamins from actual food. But for people who already eat a healthy balanced diet, a collagen supplement could help you maximize the benefits of your overall collagen intake.