Collagen is a type of protein. Fibrous in nature, it connects and supports other bodily tissues, such as skin, bone, tendons, muscles, and cartilage. It also supports the internal organs and is even present in teeth. There are more than 25 types of collagens that naturally occur in the body.
Collagen is one of the most plentiful proteins present in the bodies of mammals, including humans. In fact, it makes up about 25 percent of the total amount of proteins in the body. Some people refer to collagen as the glue that holds the body together. Without it, the body would, quite literally, fall apart.
Possessing great tensile strength, collagen functions in a manner that is very different from many other types of proteins. For example, it can be found both inside and outside of cells.Collagen fibers are important in contributing to the external structure of cells. However, they are present on the inside of some cells as well.
Collagen works hand-in-hand with elastin in supporting the body’ s tissues. Basically, it gives body tissues form and provides firmness and strength; elastin gives the same body tissues much needed flexibility. This combination of collagen and elastin is very important in many parts of the body, including, but not limited to, the lungs, bones, and tendons. Even the blood vessels rely on both collagen and elastin.

The natural solution for a youthful appearance is simple: Boost your skin’ s collagen levels. Figuring out how to do it is a little tougher, though a constant array of wild new products— drinkable collagen, anyone? — purport to work miracles. The unfortunate fact is that our bodies produce less collagen, a naturally occurring protein, as we age. The result? Thinner skin, fine lines, and dryness.
Now, UK researchers may have found a solution in sea cucumbers. Yup, you read that right. These leathery animals, found on the ocean floor, actually have a peptide formed from collagen that softens their body’ s wall tissue as a defense from predators.