CHN... When most of us think collagen, we think skin and for good reason. Much of the dry weight of our cutaneous covering is composed of this resilient fibrous protein, which keeps skin firm, taut and youthfully plump. There’s not an adult female in America that doesn’t want more of it.
But collagen is much more than an anti-wrinkle fiber. It acts as a type of biological scaffolding that makes up a third of a typical body’s weight. Collagen tissue is matrix that gives support, shape and bulk to the internal viscera, which are embedded in collagen like fruit in a jello-mold. It is by far the most abundant protein in the body and a key component of eyes, bone, blood vessels, the digestive tract and teeth.
Although there are actually over 25 types of collagen in our bodies, the majority are designated as Types 1, 2 and 3, which comprise over 80 percent of the connective tissue protein. Collagen type I is found in the skin, tendons, ligaments, bones, teeth, and in between organs. Collagen Type II found abundantly in cartilage and joint tissue. Collagen type III is abundant in the muscles, blood vessels, and skin.
There is an interesting relationship between autoimmunity and collagen. As it turns out, when it comes to autoimmune disease, much of the inflammation associated with the defense (immune) system’s misguided attacks on the tissues it’s supposed to be protecting is in the body’s collagen. Scientists refer to the tough fibrous protein as an “auto-antigen”, meaning it has a chemical nature that alerts and activates the body’s defensive chemistry, i.e. the immune system. The inflammatory assaults on collagen are especially significant in the case of rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) more commonly called “lupus”.
Because the structure of ingested collagen is similar to the auto-antigenic collagen in the body, collagen ingested in foods and supplements can act as decoy, much like a flare released from a fighter plane to throw off heat seeking missiles. There are other health benefits to ingesting collagen. Processed collagen powders have been used for weight loss. The amino acids in collagen are especially helpful for repairing the gut. For athletes and weekend warriors, as well as the elderly, collagen supplements can support the rebuilding of joint and cartilage tissue, while the amino acids they contain can help keep skin smooth and wrinkle-free.
Chicken cartilage is an especially good source of the multifunctional protein. If you have, arthritis, lupus, scleroderma or any other autoimmune disease of the connective tissue, it’s a good idea to enjoy lots of homemade chicken soup. The collagen-rich broth can have important healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
If you’re a vegan or vegetarian and you want to take advantage of the multiple benefits you can get from the versatile protein, you’re out of luck. The only way to get collagens salutary benefits is by eating collagen. You can however support collagen building in the body and there’s lot of nutrients that can be supportive. Cartilage supplements can help and so can glucosamine, chondroitin and Vitamin C. All are important players in the production of type 2 collagen. Using digestive enzymes and digestive support supplements can help, especially with protein-dense foods.
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Boil pork hocks for head cheese.