As we age, we begin to be more conscious about our health. This is because we start to feel discomforts that we haven’t experienced during our younger years. However, keeping up with a healthy body during old age becomes more difficult because disorders and diseases begin to arise as we grow old.
Joint pains and arthritis are the most common complaints that are associated with aging. In some rare cases, people experience these at a younger age. Weakening of cartilage causes more joint pains and arthritis and as it wears away, the bones and joints lose their protection. The antibodies that act against the immune response of the cells actually destroy the cartilage. Restoring and strengthening the cartilage may relieve and prevent joint pains and arthritis. And since the cartilage is mostly composed of Type II collagen – found to be the most medicinal among 14 kinds of collagen in the body – it would be best to naturally vitalize the collagen in our body. Collagen is a fibrous protein naturally produced and being used up by the body to regrow muscle tendons and ligaments, which are very much active during a person’s teenage years. As the body continues to develop through adulthood, the production of collagen reduces every year. This causes ailments since the functions of the body are attributed to our health.
Ways to Naturally Increase Collagen
An appropriate diet is one of the most practical ways to revitalize collagen in the body. A frequent intake of foods that are rich in protein can boost up the development of collagen in the body.
One of the best sources are seafoods because they are usually low in fat and rich in omega-3 fatty acids – the necessary fat that is mostly found in salmon and tuna.
For meat lovers, white meat is much commendable since it provides lean proteins. However, it is best not to include the skin in cooking because the skin contains most of the saturated fats. Best source is chicken breasts and pork tenderloin.
Eggs can be easily added to most meals and they are an excellent source of protein. If one wishes to avoid added cholesterol, hardboiled egg is a better option. It is usually best served with salad.
If you prefer beef, lean beef has an increase of one gram of saturated fat over skinless chicken breast. It provides vitamins, zinc, iron, and B12, as well.
Best source of protein for vegetarians
Breads that are low in carbohydrates, such as mission tortillas, contain over 30 grams of protein. They can be included in the diet of vegetarians since they are a good protein source.
For beans, chick pea is the best source of protein for vegetarians. Another good source is kidney beans; not just rich in protein but is also good for the heart. Baked beans are also rich in protein.
Like what most dieticians say, tofu is a good alternative for meat. Aside from being protein rich, it also contains iron and magnesium. It is commonly used for cooking a variety of dishes.
With nuts, almonds, in particular, provide a variety of health benefits. They are a good source of protein for vegetarians and are also low in saturated fat.
Peanut butter can be added to a vegetarian diet to maintain daily recommendation for protein. However, moderate consumption must be observed because peanuts have more fat.
These sources of protein are an important part of a healthy diet to help improve a particular function of the body. But one must keep in mind that food intake must be in moderation. Too much of any kind of food may lead to another type of health problem. If found to help boost up the development of collagen in the body, excessive protein may convert to fat making it unnecessary for the body.
