Collagen Explained: The "Glue" That Holds Your Body Together - YouAreSavvy

Collagen Explained: The "Glue" That Holds Your Body Together

It’s not just about wrinkles. Dr. Carlos Jaramillo explains why this protein is the structural pillar of your health—and the specific habits that destroy it.

Artistic representation of collagen fibers providing structure to skin and joints.

You hear the word "collagen," and you probably think of skin creams or anti-aging serums. But as Dr. Carlos Jaramillo explains, collagen is far more than a beauty ingredient; it is the biological scaffolding of your entire existence.

Think of your body as a building. The calcium in your bones is the concrete, but collagen is the steel rod structure inside that concrete. Without it, the building cracks and crumbles. It holds your skin, joints, muscles, and even your gut lining together.

Here is the reality check: Starting between age 25 and 30, your collagen production drops by about 1% every single year. Imagine a skyscraper losing 1% of its steel beams annually. Eventually, things start to sag and ache. In this guide, we will explore how to stop this decline and reactivate your internal "collagen factory" using science-backed nutrition.

The Many Faces of Collagen

Did you know there isn't just one type of collagen? Scientists have identified at least 28 different types, but for your health, three are the most critical:

Type I: The strongest type. It accounts for 90% of your body's collagen and provides structure to skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments.
Type II: The cushion. This type is found primarily in elastic cartilage, providing shock absorption for your joints.
Type III: The support. Found in muscles, arteries, and organs, it provides elasticity and firmness.

When you look in the mirror and see a new wrinkle, or when you feel a creak in your knee, you are witnessing the gradual breakdown of these networks. But genetics are only part of the story—your habits play a massive role.

What Kills Your Collagen? (The Daily Saboteurs)

Dr. Jaramillo highlights that our environment and diet accelerate the aging process dramatically. The biggest culprits are:

1. Sugar & Glycation

Excess sugar attaches to proteins to form harmful molecules called AGEs. This process makes collagen fibers stiff and brittle, like caramelized sugar that snaps under pressure.

2. Poor Sleep & Stress

Repair is nocturnal. If you don't sleep, you don't repair. High cortisol from chronic stress literally degrades collagen to provide quick energy for a "fight or flight" response.

3. Smoking & Vaping

It generates massive oxidative stress. Dr. Jaramillo notes that smokers often have "cardboard-like" skin because the smoke makes collagen fibers rigid and lifeless.

The "Magic" Formula: Glycine + Vitamin C

You can't simply eat collagen and expect it to stick to your face. You need to reactivate the fibroblasts (the cells that build collagen). How? Dr. Jaramillo points to a powerful combination: Glycine + Vitamin C.

This is where Bone Broth shines. It is naturally rich in Glycine and Proline. When you combine a high-quality bone broth with a diet rich in Vitamin C (like citrus or kiwi), you provide your body with the exact raw materials it needs to spin new, strong collagen fibers.

Unlike synthetic supplements, bone broth is a whole-food source that your body recognizes instantly, healing the gut lining while it strengthens your joints.

The Athlete's Secret Weapon

Dr. Jaramillo has treated professional soccer players in Europe who were suffering from chronic injuries. His protocol? Bone Broth Concentrate and high-quality protein.

By reducing oxidative stress and flooding the body with structural amino acids, these athletes were able to extend their careers well into their late 30s. Whether you are a pro athlete or just want to move without pain, the principle is the same: feed your structure, and it will support you.

An active person running, symbolizing longevity and joint health.

Don't Simmer for 24 Hours. Just Scoop.

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