1. What is Collagen?
It is the most abundant protein in the human body, composing about 30% of total proteins. It is the essential structure component that gives it tension to skin, hair, nails, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Besides, collagen gives structural support, tensile strength, elasticity to these diverse tissues, providing health to skin and joints
There are several types of collagen, but the most common forms are types I, II, and III.
Collagen type I is mainly found in skin, tendons, and bones, while collagen type II is found in cartilage, and collagen type III is normally associated with muscles and other organs. The body’s production of collagen naturally decreases with higher age and, accordingly, leads to wrinkled skin, loss of skin elasticity, stiffness of the joints, and lowered bone strength. Thus, a reduction in collagen levels raises the need to investigate techniques for sustaining or augmenting these levels.
How is collagen working?
It acts like a scaffold to many parts of the body, hence giving structure and strength to them. The collagen fibers give firmness and elasticity to the skin; therefore, youth and healthy skin depend upon collagen. It also replaces dead skin cells. In bones and joints, it forms a matrix that provides strength and flexibility to bones, while cushioning the joints and hence helping to reduce friction between bones.
When ingested, whether through dietary routes or nutritional supplements, collagen is hydrolyzed into constituent amino acids, which the body uses in rebuilding and rejuvenation of tissues of all types. This biochemistry works to great effect in skin regeneration for keeping joints healthy, in nail fortification, and in hair fortification. Thousands are excited about using collagen supplements to help improve skin elasticity, reduce pain in the joints, and all in all improve health and well-being.
2. Method for Preparing Bone Broth / soup
Bone broth is a fantastic natural source of collagen. It is a great deal pretty easy to make at home and provides a host of health benefits. Here is a basic recipe to make bone broth.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 pounds of bones or beef, chicken or fish
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar-to pull out minerals
- 1 onion roughly chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves smashed
- 2-3 carrots, chopped
- 2-3 stalks celery chopped
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley
- Sea salt and pepper to taste
- Water to cover bones
Instructions:
Preparing bones: Roast the bones in the oven at 400°F, 20 to 30 minutes, until well browned.
Stock: Place roasted bones, vegetables, and apple cider vinegar in a large stockpot or crockpot; add enough water to cover the bones completely.
Cooking: Low in the cooker for at least 12 hours. The longer it cooks, the more flavor and nutrients there will be.
Strain and Store: Once the broth has been cooked, strain through a fine-meshed sieve to rid the liquid of solids. Allow the broth to cool, then refrigerate or freeze for later use.
3. Health Benefits of Bone Broth
It comprises amino acids, minerals, gelatin apart from collagen. Its intake has been associated with the following health benefits:.
The collagen in bone broth supports joint health by providing the cushioning needed for movement and minimizing inflammation. This makes bone broth especially beneficial for those suffering from arthritis or other aches and pains.
This has been confirmed by the fact that collagen in the bone broth can improve skin elasticity to avoid wrinkles and keep it young.
Gut Health: The gelatin in this broth helps to heal the gut lining and, therefore, makes digestion easier; thus, people with leaky gut syndrome, or any other general digestive issues, may also benefit from it.
Healthier Bones: Calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus are all useful to maintain good bone health; bone broth provides all three.
Immunity Boosting: Nutrients in this broth help boost the body’s immune system to fight off infections and ailments.
According to Dr. Kellyann Petrucci, a naturopathic physician and she’s also the best-selling author of “Dr. Kellyann’s Bone Broth Diet,” bone broth is incredibly nutritious. It is filled with a variety of nutrients that support gut health, joint health, and overall energy. The collagen in the broth provides a cornerstone for the healing and rebuilding of the lining in your gut, helps reduce joint pain, and encourages healthy skin.
Conclusion
Collagen is an important protein to which the health and structural integrity of the body are largely indebted. The benefits span skin quality, joint functions, and bone strengths. Making bone broth probably is one of the best ways to increase collagen intake, with a number of other added health benefits. Consuming foods that contain collagen is a healthy way of feeding the body from the inside out.
