As we hit our 40’s and beyond, our skin start to sag more, we start to experience creaky joints, thinning hair, and feeling like our body isn’t as resilient as it used to be, as a result of reduced collagen.

Collagen is the glue that holds everything together. It’s the richest protein in our body, and is responsible for keeping our skin firm, joints strong, hair thick, and gut healthy. Unfortunately, by the time we hit our 50’s, collagen production has dropped by nearly 30%!

Collagen is Super Important if You’re Over 40:

• Keeps Skin Firm & Wrinkle-Free
  One of the first things we notice as we age is the loss of skin elasticity. What used to be firm and bouncy starts to sag, and fine lines are no longer as fine. That’s because collagen plumps up the skin, keeping it smooth and resilient. To slow down the aging process naturally, increasing collagen!
• Supports Joint & Bone Health
  Menopause is the time when bone density starts declining, due to the reduction of oestrogen, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and joint pain. Collagen strengthens bones and cartilage, making movement easier and reducing aches and stiffness. If you’re struggling with sore knees, hips, or achy hands, collagen can be a game-changer.
• Strengthens Hair & Nails
  If you’ve noticed more hair in your brush or weaker nails that chip easily, then keep reading. Collagen plays a key role in hair and nail growth, helping to maintain thickness, shine, and strength. If you’ve been struggling with thinning hair post-menopause, adding collagen to your routine can support hair growth from the inside out.
• Supports Gut Health & Digestion
  Collagen isn’t just for skin and hair—it helps heal and seal the gut lining. Many menopausal women experience bloating, food sensitivities, and digestive discomfort, and a damaged gut lining can make things worse. Collagen can help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and keep your gut happy.
• Boosts Metabolism & Muscle Mass
  Since muscle loss accelerates during menopause, supporting muscle repair and recovery is crucial. Collagen provides the amino acids needed for muscle repair, which is especially important if you’re doing strength training. And if you’re not strength, then you need to start!

 Boosting Collagen Intake Naturally

Eat Collagen-Rich Foods

• Bone broth; nature’s best collagen source!
• Chicken skin & fish with the skin on
• Egg whites
• Organ meats

Support Collagen Production with Nutrients
Your body needs certain nutrients to create and maintain collagen, including:

• Vitamin C – Found in citrus fruits, bell peppers, and berries.
• Zinc – Found in shellfish, meat, and seeds.
• Copper – Found in nuts, seeds, and dark leafy greens.

Limit Collagen-Destroying Habits

• Avoid too much sugar and processed foods – Sugar breaks down collagen, speeding up wrinkles and joint issues.
• Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure – UV damage accelerates collagen breakdown.
• Reduce stress – Chronic stress increases cortisol, which destroys collagen over time.

Collagen for the Win!

If you’re going through perimenopause or menopause and feeling the effects of collagen loss, now is the time to start replenishing it. Whether it’s through food, lifestyle, or supplementation, collagen is one of the most powerful ways to keep your body strong, your skin glowing, and your joints pain-free as you age.

Aging is inevitable, but suffering through it isn’t! Take care of your body, give it what it needs, and you’ll thrive through this next phase of life, instead of just surviving it.

• Coach Terri