Published June 19, 2025.
The most abundant protein in our body is collagen. Around 30% of our body’s protein composition is collagen which provides important structural support to tissues, skin, muscles, and bones throughout our entire body. In regards to protein makeup, collagen accounts for 90% of bone matrix, 75% of skin, 70% of joint cartilage, 70% of ligaments, 85% of tendons, 70% of fasciae, and 6% of muscle tissue. Since summer time is when we are most physically active and out in the sun, collagen will help with skin hydration and elasticity as well as strong joints.
Our bodies produce collagen from the amino acids proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline. Some of the best foods to support collagen production are beef, eggs, beans, chicken, fish, and the best of all, beef bone broth. In order for our body to produce collagen’s triple helix structure, you also need vitamin c. Some of the best sources of vitamin c are kiwis, melons, oranges, peppers, oranges, papaya, guavas, and cherries.
As we age, our bodies produce less collagen so for example at around 40, we will have lost roughly 25% of our collagen. This is why it’s really important to prioritize eating foods that support collagen production in our body.
If you are looking to incorporate more bone broth into your routine, my go to has long been Kettle & Fire’s grass fed and finished beef bone broth. Their process of slow simmering knuckle, patella, and foot marrow bones for over 14 hours extracts as much of the amino acids as possible! You can find these at your local grocery retailer, and they also provided me with the 20% off code MYHEALTHFORWARD20 using this link.
