Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, serving as the primary building block for various tissues and structures. It's found in numerous parts of the body, including:
- Skin: Collagen provides skin with its structure, elasticity, and strength. It helps maintain skin's hydration and youthful appearance.
- Muscles: Collagen supports muscle function by connecting muscle fibers and providing structure.
- Bones: Collagen gives bones their tensile strength, making them resilient to fractures.
- Tendons and Ligaments: Collagen acts as the primary component of tendons, which connect muscles to bones, and ligaments, which connect bones to each other.
- Connective Tissues: Collagen is a key part of various connective tissues throughout the body, providing support and structure to organs, blood vessels, and other tissues.
- Organs: Collagen is found in various internal organs, such as the heart, lungs, kidneys, and intestines, contributing to their structure and function.
- Blood Vessels: Collagen strengthens blood vessels, helping them maintain their shape and withstand pressure from blood flow.
- Intestinal Lining: Collagen plays a role in maintaining the integrity of the intestinal lining, which helps regulate nutrient absorption and protect against harmful substances.
Although collagen is mostly found in animal-based foods like meat and fish, it's also present in plant-based sources like bone broth, fruits, and vegetables.
