Joint Mobility Requires Collagen Too

Collagen is a protein that improves the elasticity of tendons, cartilage and skin. It has polypeptide chains of amino acids such as lysine, proline, hydroxyproline, among others and the replacement of collagen in the body, for men and women, is still the subject of studies. It is currently used as a functional nutrient to improve the texture of the skin and joints and some studies show some positive effect, as explained by Patrícia Campos Ferraz, nutritionist, Master in Food Science from the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at USP.

According to Patrícia, around the age of 50, collagen stops being produced or there is a great reduction in its production in the body, which makes the skin mature, with less hydration and more wrinkles. The nutritionist points out that protein, “according to research, may have a small effect on hydration, reducing wrinkles and also improving joint mobility. It is important to note that collagen supplements that have this effect, documented in scientific articles, are always associated with vitamin C, which is also involved in the synthesis of collagen, an important nutrient, and silicon, which is a very important mineral.

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“The positive effects described with collagen supplementation are very variable”, comments Patrícia. Collagen protein is very present in our food through gelatin or various protein sources. “People eat a lot of protein, and the amino acids in all proteins theoretically could also serve to increase or promote collagen synthesis.” Collagen replacement should always be done with the follow-up of a health professional.