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Collagen deficiency is a leading cause of joint pain, skill dullness and weak muscles. A human body functions on several different types of vitamins, minerals and protein and a deficiency in any of these can lead to an unhealthy condition. In recent years, collagen has become a popular talk of the town. In this article, we will focus on collagen deficiency, its causes, symptoms and more to help you understand the condition better.
What is Collagen?
To start with, collagen is a type of protein that is naturally found in the human body. It accounts for around 30% of the body’s protein and is fundamentally responsible for joint and skin health. Collagen serves as the building block in the body and is an important element in keeping the body fit and healthy.
There are five types of collagen:
- Type 1- Responsible for skin and bone strength and forms around 90% of the total collagen
- Type 2- Responsible for the elasticity in cartilage to support joints
- Type 3- Responsible for muscles and organ health
- Type 4- Found in the layers of skin and supports firmness in the skin
- Type 5- Responsible for tissue formation for hair, skin and eyes.
In most cases, a collagen deficiency is witnessed amongst the elderly leading to joint pain. However, there are several cases of young people facing a collagen shortage as well. Collagen deficiency in young adults has become popular majorly because of the modern lifestyle and lack of a balanced diet.
Let’s understand the reasons for collagen deficiency better.
What Leads to Collagen Deficiency?
As earlier, collagen is naturally found in the human body and does not require an additional diet to increase its percentage, in most cases. Studies show that the biggest causes of collagen deficiency stems from an unhealthy lifestyle.
Take a look at these lifestyle habits that lead to the reduction of collagen in the body:
1. Smoking
Smoking is a major reason that reduces collagen. The presence of nicotine in cigarettes kills the body’s natural capacity to produce collagen and also damages elastin. Smoking restricts the blood movement around the nose as well which is why smokers have dull skin (mostly).
2. Ultraviolet Rays
You might have heard that Ultraviolet rays are harmful to the skin and constant contact with UV rays leads to dull and tired skin. This is because UV rays reduce collagen and break it down. Collagen deficiency skin is visible.
3. Sugar and Carbs
Consumption of excessive refined sugar and carbs is detrimental to collagen production. This is because these food elements get attached to protein in the body resulting in the formation of glycation that damages the protein content.
Factors apart from lifestyle choices that can damage collagen:
1. Autoimmune diseases
Autoimmune diseases are those in which the body’s immune system begins to attack its tissues, including those that produce collagen. Lupus, dermatomyositis, and connective tissue disease are some of the most common autoimmune diseases that lead to collagen deficiency.
2. Old age
As the body ages, its natural capacity to produce collagen decreases, resulting in joint pain and muscle weakness. While a collagen deficiency blood test is not always accurate in indicating the percentage reduction, various symptoms can detect a deficiency.
3. Genetic mutation
Another reason for collagen deficiency is genetic mutation. The genes passed by ancestors affect collagen, as well. A collagen-deficient gene will lead to a deficiency in the next generation.
Symptoms of Collagen Deficiency
Understanding symptoms of low collagen is important as it can affect your everyday life and daily chores. Here’s a list of collagen deficiency symptoms that can easily be detected-
1. Joint Pain
Joint pain is a common phenomenon among both elderly people and adults. A major reason for joint pain is the lack of collagen, which is present in cartilage and responsible for cushioning the joint. Additionally, collagen reduces elasticity and bone support, leading to joint pain.
2. Dull Skin
As discussed earlier, a lack of collagen restricts the flow of oxygen to the skin cells in the body, prohibiting them from growing. This often results in dull skin or, in some cases, hyperpigmentation and skin breakage. Collagen serves as the connective tissue in the skin, and a lack of collagen also leads to wrinkles.
3. Muscle Weakness and Slow Recovery
Collagen is a connective tissue present in ligaments that helps muscles function smoothly. A lack of collagen results in muscle weakness, and another symptom of reduced collagen is a slow recovery of muscle pain.
4. Cellulite
Lumpy, pigmented, and dimpled skin is common among people of all ages and genders. Collagen, a protein, keeps the skin tight and firm, restricting the chances of skin becoming loose and pushing against each other.
5. Leaky Gut Syndrome
Leaky gut syndrome is a type of gastrointestinal problem in which gaps in the intestine expand, paving the way for toxins to settle down. A lack of collagen restricts the body’s natural capacity to fill these gaps.
6. Brittle Hair and Nails
Collage is also responsible for the healthy growth of hair and nails. Collagen-deficient nails and hair are rough, dry and brittle.
7. Blood Pressure
Collagen supports the strength and elasticity of blood vessels, ensuring a healthy flow. A reduction in collagen can be seen in high blood pressure and, in some cases, even circulatory problems.
>> Also Read: Avoid These 6 Skin Allergies This Summer: Helpful Tips and Tricks
Ways to Improve Collagen in the Body?
Collagen can’t be consumed in its totality, as the body might find it hard to digest. Therefore, it is suggested to focus on eating food that contains good amounts of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to stimulate collagen production.
In addition to this, several food items can help boost collagen in the body. Take a look at this list of food items that can be helpful in case of collagen deficient:
- Chicken
- Fish
- Citrus food
- Berries
- Tropical foods
- Garlic
- Leafy greens
- Beans
- Cashews and other nuts.
List of vitamins and minerals that you should look for in everyday food:
- Vitamin C
- Proline
- Copper
- Zinc
- Glycine
Note: These food items are rich sources of vitamins and protein that can help in boosting collagen. However, if your collagen deficiency test shows a serious reduction, make sure to contact your doctor.
Bottom line
Collagen deficiency has become a leading problem among people of all ages. The modern lifestyle and a lack of awareness are the biggest reasons for damaging the body’s natural capacity to produce collagen. The right diet and collagen deficiency treatment (if needed) can restore the collagen level in the body.
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Disclaimers: All plan features, benefits, coverage, and claims underwriting are subject to policy terms and conditions. Kindly refer to the brochure, sales prospectus, and policy documents carefully.
