Over the last few years in the health world, one item in particular has continued to rapidly gain popularity: collagen. It has been made into powders, bars, drinks, and even added into skincare. But for those following a plant-based diet, it may be an unexplored topic.
For those unfamiliar with collagen, it is one of the most prevalent proteins in the body. It makes up about 80 percent of our skin, including elastin. As we grow older, beginning in our twenties, our collagen production begins to decline. This is why, as we age, we start to have wrinkles and feel stress on our joints and ligaments.
Collagen is sourced mainly from the connective tissues of bovine, chicken, and fish. For those following a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, this may decrease your interest in the necessity of this powerful protein. Therefore, today we want to highlight plant-based ways to naturally support healthy collagen production!
Glycine
Glycine is an amino acid, or our body’s building blocks for protein. It is naturally produced by our body. With its numerous functions, we often need more glycine than our body is able to provide. Glycine supplementation, whether capsule or powder form, can support collagen production in the body. With glycine having a naturally sweet taste (the name stems from the Greek word for "sweet"), a powder supplementation is an effortless and tasty way to boost glycine intake!
Vitamin C
We’ve all heard about the importance of Vitamin C for maintaining a healthy immune system. Did you know it also plays a significant role supporting healthy collagen production? Besides supporting the production of collagen, it is also a potent antioxidant. Also, it may aid in proper storage of collagen in the body. This vitamin has the added benefit of promoting skin protection from UV damage and free radicals. Our bodies do not produce Vitamin C naturally. So, one may want to focus on working an array of citrus fruits and Vitamin C-rich vegetables into their diet!
In addition, we would also like to highlight a few unique, plant-friendly products that support collagen production in the body!
BioSil
This unique supplement contains choline and silicon. Choline is an essential nutrient that aids healthy cell membrane function. Silicon is a natural trace mineral. In the presence of oxygen, it forms silica, which supports skin elasticity and joint flexibility.
Most importantly, this clinically researched formula may support the generation of collagen. This powerhouse combination not only nourishes skin, but also may improve hair and nail health! It is available in liquid or capsule form in a variety of sizes.
PlantFusion Collagen Builder
This product is unique in its extensive and highly researched ingredient list. PlantFusion Collagen Builder contains an amino acid blend including glycine, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and other antioxidant-rich ingredients. Each of these ingredients on their own is useful... Together, they create a truly one-of-a-kind, skin-loving product. Furthermore, a key ingredient is the clinically-studied amla fruit, which PlantFusion suggests “supports cellular energy production for building healthy skin.”
Collagen Builder is available in an easy-to-mix formula and can be thrown into a protein shake, or simply mixed with a liquid of your choice. For those looking for an all-in-one, plant-based collagen booster, this may be the one for you!
In conclusion, we hope this gives you a better understanding on the variety of ways to support collagen production. Gone are the days of only being offered collagen in the traditional peptide form! There is truly a way for each and every person to benefit from collagen, no matter their lifestyle of choice.
Have you tried collagen peptides or any plant based collagen builders? What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments below or visit us at one of our Fruitful Yield locations!
