We test your general knowledge, and ask you a trivia question: What is collagen? Options: a) Vitamin b) Protein and c) Nutrient. If you got the answer 'b', you got it right, and you have your green cheese in the science and nature category.
The fact that collagen makes up 25% of the total mass of proteins in the body leaves no room for doubt. Hence the vital importance of this protein, especially for skin, bones and joints. Usually, we quickly associate collagen with specific beauty products, such as anti-aging creams, since most of them include this protein to improve skin firmness and prevent sagging. However, collagen also has another series of benefits, perhaps less known, but just as important.
Over the years, its levels drop considerably. And not exclusively in older people, but from the age of 30 onwards is when collagen production goes into libre fall. This protein can be found in animals and certain fish, so food plays a fundamental role in the replenishment of collagen, although there are also other products on the market that help in this mission.
The importance of collagen in athletes
In the specific case of athletes and sportsmen, collagen, beyond helping to slow the signs of aging, also plays an essential role. It helps to take care of joints, avoid injuries and even to recover faster from exercise.
Physical activity causes wear and tear of the cartilage tissue, which means that the joints resist, and these need special attention and care.
The most common: The most common tendinitis, chondropathies, osteoarthritis...
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