Jun 25, 2025
Collagen crash: What happens when this key protein declines
Siddhartha JanaWhat is collagen?
Collagen is the body’s most abundant protein, crucial for skin, bones, joints, and blood vessels. It acts as structural support, making up around 30% of total body protein.
Source: Canva
Silent danger: Bone fragility
Low collagen weakens bones, leading to silent risks like fractures from minor falls or daily movements—often the first serious sign of deficiency.
Source: Canva
Skin and hair changes
Collagen loss leads to wrinkles, sagging skin, brittle nails, thinning hair, and slow wound healing—common signs of premature aging.
Source: Canva
Internal health impact
Deficiency affects blood vessels and the digestive tract, causing poor circulation, cardiovascular risk, and gut lining issues.
Source: Canva
Causes of collagen loss
Smoking, sun damage, sugar intake, poor diet, and low physical activity all disrupt collagen synthesis and accelerate its breakdown.
Source: Canva
India-specific risk factors
Vitamin C and protein deficiencies, processed diets, hormonal shifts, autoimmune diseases, and certain medications all contribute to collagen decline.
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Prevention tips
Regular exercise, sun protection, antioxidant-rich foods, and a protein- and vitamin C-rich diet help maintain collagen levels naturally.
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Why early detection matters
There’s no direct test for collagen levels, so early signs like joint pain, fragile skin, and fractures must be addressed to avoid long-term damage.
Source: Canva
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