This post first appeared on Piping Rock. All content is theirs.

Collagen. You’ve most likely heard of it or, maybe you use it. But, do you really know that much about it? Well, we’re here today to review what collagen is, how it benefits your body, and give a smoothie recipe so good you may want to live off of it. First things first, what is collagen? Collagen is a protein. In fact, it’s the most abundant protein within your body—if we want talk numbers, it makes up about 1/3 of all protein. It’s found in the connective tissue in your body, with bone, ligaments, tendons and skin having the highest concentrations. There are over a dozen types of collagen; however, the most prevalent ones are type I, II, and III.¹ Scratching your head on what that means?

Here’s a quick breakdown:  

Type I and Type III: These two types are associated with hair, skin, nails and bones. They play a role in improving elasticity, and providing growth/maintenance of skin, hair and nails** They can be taken together for enhanced absorption or separately.  

Type II: This type is associated with joints and cartilage. Sure, not as glamorous as the beauty touting type I and II above, yet equally important. This type works in your body to help support joint health.** Now that you know what the more ubiquitous collagen types do for you, let’s get down to business and talk the degradation of collagen. Think collagen is everlasting since it’s found in the body? Think again. Once you reach your mid-20s, things start to get weird in your body. AKA collagen decides to start going out to party and not recover the next day. What does this mean? Basically, as we age, levels of collagen naturally decrease within our bodies. See below for a less goofy, more scientific visual of this process:

While there’s no cure for nature’s progression or ways to stop it from happening, you can find supplements that benefit your body. Here at Piping Rock we offer a terrific selection of collagen products including Hydrolyzed Collagen 1000 mg Type I & II or UC-II® Collagen 40 mg Joint Formula, that support a number of processes in the body. **

The top three benefits of taking a collagen supplement are as follows:

#1) Helps to support the growth and maintenance of your skin.** This means, that taking a supplement lends a helping hand to the production in your body to help the lifecycle of your skin.**

#2) Topical collagen creams are another way to incorporate this protein into your life through your beauty routine. The cream can give off the appearance of hydrated, smooth skin that will make it a new favorite moisturizer.

#3) Joints are important for mobility and collagen, as we’ve learned, plays a role in such.** Now that you’re practically an expert on collagen, we think you’re ready to hit the kitchen with a recipe you’re sure to love. Here it is!

Coocoo For Collagen

+In a blender mix to smoothie consistency the following: 1 tablespoon of Liquid Collagen Delicious Natural Berry Flavor   1 cup Strawberries, Cut 1 cup Almond Milk 1 cup ice ½ cup peanut butter + Add some granola to the top for a breakfast bowl or chug before a gym session!  

Liked this post? Like us? Sign up to receive emails on crazy deals and more posts like this!