Collagen is not a stand-alone entity in the body, that weakens or strengthens in isolation. It is an integral structural part of the body that gets impacted by everything adverse that our body & mind experience. While the collagen you consume, may be potential enough in its own composition, you may not have the ideal inner environment, either to absorb the collagen supplement well, or to protect the collagen reserves within!
What is Collagen?
Collagen is the deep lying protein under the layers of the skin that forms the foundation of a youthful skin on the outside. It is the protein that holds together the structure of our skin, bones, and connective tissues. As collagen begins to disintegrate, the impact directly shows on the skin as loss of firmness, elasticity, and radiance. Age lines deepen, texture roughens, and the complexion appears fatigued if the collagen weakens.
Some of the modern factors for loss of collagen include sun exposure, stress and smoking. Vitamin C is a crucial nutrient that acts as a pre-cursor to collagen production and retinoids support its regeneration.
According to Ayurveda, collagen is not merely a structural protein, it is the subtle radiance generated from balanced digestion, calm mind, and nourished tissues.
Ayurveda Approach to Nurture Collagen Naturally from the Inside Out
Nourish skin with Ayurvedic Diet - A collagen-supportive diet in Ayurveda begins with balancing Vata, the energy that causes dryness & depletion of tissues. Collagen is also dependent upon the digestive fire which processes foods to extract the nutrients required for collagen production, therefore, and strengthening the Agni, is crucial for collagen support. When digestion is strong and tissues are well nourished, collagen synthesis occurs effortlessly.
Consume Vitamin C-Rich Foods - Amla (Indian Gooseberry), revered as a super Rasayana, is one of the richest natural sources of Vitamin C. It supports collagen formation, protects skin from oxidative damage, and nourishes all seven tissues (dhatus), especially rasa and rakta, which govern skin glow.
Consume Antioxidant-Rich Fruits & Vegetables - Berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens, and colorful vegetables neutralize the free radicals that degrades collagen. Their pranic energy enhances youthful radiance.
Consume Healthy Fats & Glow-Enhancing Seeds - Ghee, almonds, walnuts, and sesame are known to be rich in good fats that support ski health & internal glow. These seeds provide essential fatty acids that keep the skin supple, moist, and elastic. In Ayurveda, healthy fats pacify Vata, the dosha most responsible for drying-up the tissues causing collagen loss and inducing aging and dryness.
Consume Bone Broth (if you are non-vegetarian) - Bone broth is an excellent source of natural collagen and minerals, strengthens the joints and deeply nourishes skin tissues.
Consume Collagen-Supportive Spices - Turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and black cumin enhance digestion, purify the blood, reduce inflammation, and protect collagen loss.
Stay Hydrated - Warm water, herbal teas, fresh coconut water, and cumin-fennel-coriander water keep the tissues plump and hydrated, which is essential for maintaining skin elasticity.