What is collagen?
Quick Answer
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, forming the strong fibres that hold together skin, bones, tendons and ligaments.
The Full Story
Collagen makes up about a quarter to a third of all the protein in the human body. Its molecules wind together in a triple helix, forming ropelike fibres with great tensile strength. At least 28 types of collagen have been identified, with type I being the most common, found in skin, bone and tendons. The body needs vitamin C to make collagen properly, which is why severe vitamin C deficiency, scurvy, causes wounds to reopen and gums to bleed. Collagen production slows with age, contributing to wrinkles and stiffer joints.
Key Facts
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"The protein holding your body together"
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