Collagen and silica: two essential health supplements

Collagen and silica are two fundamental compounds for maintaining the health of our bodies, especially as we age. These elements are crucial for skin, joints, bones and other connective tissues. However, natural collagen production declines as we age.

This article aims to explain the benefits of these compounds, how they contribute to our health and how we can incorporate them properly into our diet.

What is collagen and why is it important?

Collagen is a structural protein found in much of our bodies, including skin, bones, tendons, ligaments and cartilage. Its main function is to provide support and structure to these tissues, helping to maintain the elasticity, firmness and flexibility of the skin, as well as protecting joints and promoting bone health.

With age, from the age of 35 onwards, the natural production of collagen decreases considerably. Factors such as poor diet, stress and sun exposure accelerate this process, resulting in sagging skin, increased joint pain and increased risk of bone fractures.

Health benefits of collagen

• Joint and cartilage strengthening: Collagen contributes to the structure of cartilage and can help prevent or relieve joint pain, especially in people with arthritis or who play high-impact sports.
• Contribution to bone health: Collagen provides a structural basis for bones, giving them flexibility. Its decrease is linked to an increased risk of fractures and loss of bone density.
• Improved skin elasticity and firmness: As collagen decreases, the skin loses its ability to regenerate, resulting in wrinkles and sagging. Taking collagen supplements can help to restore this elasticity.
• Effects on hair and nails: Collagen not only benefits the skin, but also nails and hair, promoting their growth and strength.

What is silica and why is it important?

Silica is a mineral that plays a key role in the production of collagen. It is essential for healthy bones, cartilage and skin, as it promotes the formation of connective tissue, and helps collagen to be synthesised more efficiently in the body.

Natural sources of silica include foods such as cucumbers, peppers, brown rice and some mineral waters. Despite its presence in certain foods, the amount needed to boost collagen may be difficult to achieve through diet alone.

Health benefits of silica

Several scientific studies have explored the role of silica in health and well-being and current evidence supports its role in maintaining health and preventing premature ageing:

• Contribution to bone and joint health: This mineral helps to strengthen bones and joints, promoting bone regeneration and cartilage elasticity (Béatrice Housez 2012, Josep M. del Bas 2014).
• Benefits for skin, hair and nails: Silica can improve skin hydration and collagen production, resulting in firmer skin and healthier hair and nails (Polonini H.C. 2019).
• Benefits for the immune system: Silica contributes to the production of immune system cells and certain antibodies, thus strengthening the body’s defences (Koo HC 2006, Yoo BW 2001).
• Benefits for the cardiovascular system: Silica may play a role in the flexibility and maintenance of the integrity of vascular walls, crucial for healthy blood circulation and for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases (Garcimartın A 2015).

Collagen and silica: a synergetic combination

Some studies on the combined effect of collagen and silica suggest that silica may enhance collagen synthesis in the body. For example, silica has been shown to activate the enzyme prolyl hydroxylase, which is essential for collagen formation, potentially improving the health of connective tissues such as skin, bones and joints.

Furthermore, such research has shown that dietary silica deficiency can lead to a decrease in collagen concentration in various tissues, suggesting a direct link between silica availability and collagen production. Therefore, silica supplementation may be beneficial in maintaining optimal collagen levels in the body.

According to these studies, silica plays an important role in the synthesis and stabilisation of collagen. In simple terms, silica acts as an activator of collagen production. This mineral is involved in the formation of cross-links between collagen molecules, which not only improves the structure and integrity of connective tissues, but also increases the strength and elasticity of the collagen produced. Without silica, the formation of these bonds would be weaker, resulting in tissues that are less firm and less able to resist natural wear and tear.

The synergy between collagen and silica is not only an effective strategy to combat the effects of ageing, but also to maintain a good quality of life as we age. For this reason, incorporating both into the diet, through foods and supplements such as Silicium G7 Original, Silicium G7 Siliplant or Living Silica Collagen Booster, not only ensures that we are receiving these essential compounds, but also optimises their action in our body, improving the overall health and appearance of skin, joints and bones.

Although more clinical studies are needed to confirm the benefits of joint silica and collagen supplementation, current evidence indicates that silica plays an important role in the synthesis and maintenance of collagen in the body.

Natural sources and supplements

Collagen-rich foods include bone broth, fish, eggs and dairy products. On the other hand, silica is found in foods such as brown rice, nuts and green leafy vegetables.

However, as we age and our ability to synthesise these compounds diminishes, supplements become an excellent option to ensure adequate intake. It is important to choose the right type of supplement for our needs and preferences. In this regard, Silicium G7, with its wide range of products that provide us with silica in different formats (liquid, capsules, gels…), is considered one of the best brands on the market due to its ability to improve the bioavailability of collagen and enhance the effects of silica.

Cholagen and silica: the union to improve your health

Both collagen and silica are essential for maintaining healthy skin, joints, bones, hair and nails. The decline in their natural production as we age highlights the importance of incorporating them regularly through diet and supplementation. By choosing a quality supplement such as Silicium G7 Original, we can ensure that our body receives the necessary amount of these compounds, optimising their benefits to maintain a balanced and comprehensive health.