Are we in a collagen crisis

Millions are oblivious to their collagen decline

One in four people have never even heard of the fundamental human building block – collagen – according to a new report[1] from the makers of COLNATUR, a new, evidence backed collagen supplement range for muscles, joints and bone health. Yet millions are experiencing symptoms of collagen decline.

Unfortunately, having heard of collagen does not necessarily equate to knowing what it is. The majority of those who said they had heard of it thought it was just good for skin health. The truth is that it is so much more. GP, Dr Nisa Aslam says, “Collagen is such an essential protein in our body helping make up many structures such as tendons, bones, hair, skin, muscles, ligaments and joints. When we start to lose collagen, these structures can weaken; our skin can sag, our muscles become weak and our bones are more prone to breaking.”

Public health nutritionist, Dr Emma Derbyshire says, “There are several factors that contribute to collagen decline, although ageing really is the main one. This new report from COLNATUR shows that a third of Brits think the collagen decline happens in their fifties, but it occurs far earlier, from the age of 25 to 30, putting us at risk of pain, discomfort and poor quality of life. It’s concerning that people believe that such issues with their health won’t be a cause for concern till later in life.”

As we enter our late 20s and 30s, the production of collagen slows down, at a rate of 1.5% loss per year until 45-50 when the deterioration speeds up. Other factors involved in collagen decline include the menopause, for women and sedentary lifestyles. What many do not realise is that TOO MUCH physical activity can also cause problems, particularly if it is repetitive exercise (such as running), as this can impact joints and bones, making them weaker. Modern day environmental factors, such as cigarette smoke, pollution and damaging UV rays can also damage our collagen reserves.

There are only a few foods that contain collagen and they are not popular food choices - pork skin, bone broth, fish with the skin on and chicken[2]. Taking a collagen supplement is helpful but choosing the right supplement is what is vital. The new COLNATUR range contains hydrolysed collagen, making it easier to be absorbed by the body. It contains 10,000mg a serving, which shows positive outcomes for bones, joints, muscle health and skin when used continuously over certain periods of time.

COLNATUR has clinical trials backing the efficacy of the range and, as it comes as a powder, it can be added to hot and cold food and drinks – e.g. coffee, tea, smoothies, soups, stews. You can even use COLNATUR when you bake, so it makes it easier to incorporate to day-to-day life. More than two thirds of Brits in the COLNATUR report confirm that they would take a collagen supplement if it helped with their bone density and strength. Dr Derbyshire says, “It’s time we made collagen a priority and started upgrading our diet with this useful addition”.

The current life expectancy for U.K. in 2021 is 81.52 years and the United Nations predicts that by the year 2102, life expectancy in the UK will be 90.76. However, if we want to enjoy our long lives, then maintaining the health of our bones, joints and muscles is essential[3]. GP, Dr Nisa Aslam says, “I know that if I get to live into my 80s and beyond, I want to move comfortably, climb stairs, walk pain free and exercise for as long as possible, and this is where collagen comes in.”