Collagen deficiency - causes, symptoms & natural treatment options

A collagen deficiency can weaken the skin, joints and connective tissue. Find out more about the causes, signs and how you can naturally compensate for collagen deficiency.

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Wissenswertes über "Collagen deficiency"

Collagen is the most important structural protein in the human body and makes up around 30 % of the total protein content. A lack of collagen leads to remarkable changes in the body.

Collagen gives skin, bones, tendons, ligaments and connective tissue stability, elasticity and strength. A lack of collagen can be caused by the natural ageing process or by external influences and leads to visible and tangible changes in the body. The consequences include wrinkles, joint problems and reduced bone density.

Causes of a collagen deficiency

The body produces collagen itself, but this process slows down from the age of 25. By the age of 60, the body's own collagen production can decrease by up to 50%. A collagen deficiency can have various causes. The primary trigger is the age-related decrease in collagen synthesis. In addition, a diet low in vitamins and minerals, in particular a lack of vitamin C, zinc and copper, impairs collagen production. UV radiation also damages the collagen fibres and accelerates their breakdown. Other causes include hormone fluctuations, particularly during the menopause, chronic stress, which increases oxidative processes, as well as tobacco and alcohol consumption, which attack the collagen structure.

Symptoms of collagen deficiency

The symptoms of collagen deficiency can manifest themselves in various parts of the body. One common symptom is skin ageing. Collagen degradation causes the skin to lose elasticity and moisture, resulting in wrinkles and fine lines. The skin also becomes thinner and more vulnerable. The connective tissue is also affected, which manifests itself in the form of cellulite, stretch marks or a weakening of the vascular walls.

Another symptom is joint and cartilage problems. As collagen is an essential component of cartilage tissue, a deficiency leads to reduced joint lubrication, stiffness and pain. In the long term, this can increase the risk of degenerative diseases such as arthritis. Bone health also suffers from a collagen deficiency, as collagen is responsible for the stability and flexibility of bones. A chronic deficiency can reduce bone density and increase the risk of osteoporosis.

Collagen deficiency also affects hair and nails. Brittle nails, hair loss or reduced hair quality are common consequences. Digestive problems can also occur, as collagen plays an important role in the stability of the intestinal mucosa.

Natural treatment options

There are various approaches to preventing or compensating for a collagen deficiency. Nutrition plays a central role in this. Eating collagen-rich foods such as , fish with skin, eggs or can support the body's own collagen production. Equally important are nutrients involved in collagen synthesis, especially vitamin C, which promotes the conversion of into collagen. Good sources are citrus fruits, berries, peppers and green leafy vegetables. Zinc and copper, which are found in nuts, seeds and meat, are also important for collagen formation.

Collagen supplements offer another way to increase collagen levels. Particularly effective are hydrolysed collagen peptides, which can be easily absorbed and utilised by the body. There are different with specific effects: I and III support skin, hair and nails, while collagen type II is particularly relevant for joint health.