THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SLEEP HEALTH AND COLLAGEN
It is an undeniable fact that sleep is crucially important for our body and mind. The fundamental way to recover from the fatigue of daily life, consolidate memory and repair cells is through quality sleep. Recent research indicates a notable relationship between collagen, one of the body's most essential proteins and sleep quality.
Collagen is typically associated with skin elasticity and the health of hair, nails and joints. Constituting approximately one-third of the total protein in the body, this structural protein profoundly affects not only our outer appearance but also the functioning of our internal systems. Although various types of collagen are found in different tissues, its role in the sleep and rest cycle is mediated by the amino acid glycine.
Glycine, which forms a significant part of collagen's protein structure, is a neurotransmitter with various functions in the body. While it can exhibit both excitatory and inhibitory effects in the nervous system, its calming aspect comes to the fore in the context of sleep. Studies suggest that taking a glycine supplement before bedtime may help improve sleep quality.
This calming effect of glycine is linked to the reduction of body temperature. A slight drop in core body temperature is a natural process that facilitates falling asleep. Glycine can support individuals in falling asleep faster and sleeping for longer, uninterrupted periods by slightly lowering the body's "core" temperature. Furthermore, it has been observed that glycine helps to reduce feelings of wakefulness and alleviate fatigue, thereby promoting a state of feeling more refreshed during the daytime hours.
The relationship between collagen and sleep is not one-directional. Just as the components of collagen can influence sleep quality, quality sleep is also vital for the body's collagen production. Growth Hormone (GH) is secreted particularly during the deep sleep phase and this hormone is a primary trigger for cell renewal, repair and consequently, collagen synthesis. When sufficient and quality sleep is not achieved, GH secretion is disrupted. This situation not only leads to fatigue but also slows down the repair processes in the skin, muscles and other connective tissues.
In summary, the rate of collagen production decreases when there is insufficient sleep. Conversely, adequate intake of glycine, one of the building blocks of collagen, supports the healthy functioning of the cycle that bolsters this production by improving sleep quality.
The relationship between sleep health and collagen is not merely a matter of supplementation but an indication of how the body's complex chemical and physiological cycles interact with one another. While the relaxing potential of glycine in collagen supplements can contribute to better sleep quality, a healthy sleep regimen also optimizes the body's natural processes of collagen production and repair.
By incorporating CollaSel into your products, you can provide collagen, one of the essential building blocks for the human body, to your consumers and support their health.
