BY CLAIR WHITTY
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, providing structure and strength to skin, joints, bones, hair, nails and connective tissue. While we naturally begin to lose collagen from our mid-twenties onwards, the decline becomes far more noticeable for women during perimenopause and menopause.
Oestrogen plays a key role in collagen production. As oestrogen levels fall during menopause, collagen synthesis slows significantly. Research suggests women can lose up to 30% of their skin’s collagen in the first five years after menopause. This is not a nice thought, is it? This drop in Oestrogen doesn’t just affect our appearance, it can have wide-reaching effects throughout the body.
Other symptoms associated with declining collagen can include thinner, drier skin, increased wrinkles, joint stiffness, reduced muscle tone, brittle nails, hair thinning and slower recovery after exercise. Many women also notice changes in joint comfort, bone strength and gut health, all of which rely on healthy connective tissue. Sound familiar?
Supporting collagen levels through nutrition and supplementation can be a valuable part of a woman’s menopause wellness plan. Collagen provides key amino acids such as glycine, proline and hydroxyproline, which the body uses to help maintain skin elasticity, joint flexibility and bone integrity. While collagen is not a magic cure, regular intake alongside a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle may help support these areas over time.
There are many collagen supplements on the market and in various forms, capsules, powders, and liquids. Vital Proteins have powdered collagen options. These are popular due to their quality and clean ingredient profile. They have both a bovine collagen, sourced from grass-fed cattle, and a marine collagen, derived from wild-caught fish. Bovine collagen contains both Type I and Type III collagen, which are both important for skin, joints and bones, while marine collagen is rich in Type I collagen, often chosen for skin, hair and nail support and is easily absorbed.
Both options are neutral in flavour and dissolve easily into hot or cold drinks, smoothies or food, making them simple to incorporate into daily routines. Many people add it to coffee, a simple and easy way to take it. Supporting collagen production during your menopausal journey could help improve your symptoms.
Collagen can be taken alongside HRT, or your regular supplements. For more information and advice call in, phone or email. We would love to help.
Check us out in store or online at www.naturalhealthstore.ie
Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre
Phone: 056 7764538
Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie
