Collagen and Osteoporosis

Collagen and osteoporosis aren't commonly thought of as 2 things that are inter-related, however, they are closely related with regard to how dense and well built your bones are. In a recent article from the November issue of Delicious living, the relationship between collagen, calcium, and bone density it discussed at some length. Without a doubt, collagen is a huge factor in the condition of our bones. Here's the scoop.

Collagen & Calcium Combined

In the article, it states that approximately 60% of bone tissue is calcium, leaving approximately 30% as collagen. Of this combo, it is actually collagen that generates the bone density that gives our bones the ability to withstand stress. Collagen is a protein that provides a framework of soft tissue that calcium adheres onto, creating a hardened framework. Calcium is still an important player, but without enough collagen, taking large doses can be wasteful.

Collagen as a Binder

One way that collagen helps to create good bone density is by providing a place for calcium to bind to. Calcium needs to adhere itself to something, and in the instance of bone structuring, it binds itself to collagen. This explains the reason for diminished supplies of collagen being part of the picture in those with bone loss. More calcium certainly won't hurt someone with bone loss, however, taking more and more of it while having a collagen deficiency won't really solve the problem.

Collagen and Bone Flexibility

Bones that are short on collagen will lack good flexibility and become brittle. These are the conditions that easily allow fractures to occur. By increasing collagen content, your bones have the capability to be flexible in the event of physical stress related to injury from a sudden impact.

Osteoblasts

Unlike calcium, you cannot eat collagen to gain more of it for your bones. Collagen is generated by cells called osteoblasts. Those cells can be activated by using a supplement named choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid. This compound has the capability to spur on collagen formation for bone density that can withstand the bumps, bruises and rigors of life, to counter the natural decrease of them that occurs with aging. This supplement can be found in retail health food stores or in magazines like Life Extension and Delicious Living by mail order.

Source: November Issue of Delicious Living