Collagen
Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies and is one of the major building blocks of bones, skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments. It accounts for about 30% of our protein composition and could be seen as the glue that holds us together.
Our body makes this collagen by breaking down the protein we eat into individual amino-acids. It then uses these components to make our own proteins. This process uses Vitamin C so a healthy diet including a variety of protein sources as well as multiple vitamins is essential.
As we age, our body produces less collagen. The most obvious sign of this is in our skin which becomes looser and less supple. Our cartilage also weakens with age whilst tendons and ligaments become stiffer and more prone to injury.
In scar tissue, the collagen fibres are aligned differently to the original tissue. This usually means that the repair is inferior. Often scars are less flexible and weaker which leads to other tissues in the surrounding area having to take over and work harder. Scarwork™ therapy can help with scar tissue flexibility whilst massage and Soft tissue therapy can relax the overworked original tissue.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is one of the most important vitamins for immune health, aiding in the prevention of colds and other infections. It also helps with the absorption of Iron which transports oxygen and nutrients around the body in the blood.
This vitamin is also needed by the body in order to make Collagen. This protein is the main component of connective tissues that provided support at your joints. Collagen also plays a part in wound healing and is a major component of scar tissue so Vitamin C helps to speed recovery.
A deficiency in Vitamin C is rare in UK but initial symptoms are fatigue, skin problems and decreased resistance to infections.
Vitamin C is found in a wide variety of fruit and vegetables, including:
• oranges and orange juice
• red and green peppers
• strawberries
• blackcurrants
• broccoli
• brussels sprouts
• potatoes
It is also added to some Breakfast cereals and many people take an oral supplement.
The body is unable to store this vitamin so it needs to be eaten every day. Excess is usually excreted and causes little or no harm.
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