Collagen is key to healthy joints
AMAZINGLY, collagen makes up almost a third of our body mass. The term itself comes from the Greek word ‘kola’, which means glue. And indeed, in a very real sense, collagen is the glue that holds our bodies together, within the tendons, joints, bones, muscles and skin. Scientists believe that, for many people, collagen production slows as we grow older. This leads to visible signs of ageing, such as wrinkles and saggy skin. Excessive consumption of alcohol, eating a diet high in sugar and processed foods, and too much sun exposure can also reduce levels. Collagen creams and supplements are already well known as treatments for wrinkles. But Professor Greg Whyte, director of research at the British Olympic Medical Unit, explains that collagen is important in many other ways, as well. ‘Collagen is the most common protein in the body. ‘We need it for healthy joints, physical resilience and the ability to recover from injuries. The body loses 1.5 per cent of its collagen every year. By the age of 40 we have lost 30 per cent,’ he says.
While your body can produce collagen, you can top this up by eating chicken and fish skin, as well as protein-rich food and fruit and vegetables. you might also take a supplement or use a collagen-rich moisturising cream. Some studies have now shown that increasing collagen intake may improve older people’s bone mineral density over time and help to reduce joint stiffness.
An easily absorbable cream is one simple way to apply collagen to your joints. And if the cream has other natural ingredients associated with joint health, such as emu oil, glucosamine, arnica and aloe vera, all the better. Collagen Prime Cream is specially designed for those who have joint pain, stiffness in the back, hands, hips, wrist or knees, or who experience the discomfort of arthritis.