The Power of Collagen

Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body. It makes up roughly 30% of your body’s total protein. Collagen is the core component of your body’s skin, muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissues. Collagen can be found in your organs, blood vessels and intestinal lining as well. 

Collagen’s main role is to provide structure, strength, and support throughout the body. Collagen peptides are small pieces of animal collagen. Collagen cannot be absorbed in a whole form; it must be broken down into smaller peptides or amino acids. Collagen supplements are available as pills or powder, which typically contain two or three amino acids. They are sold as collagen peptides or hydrolyzed collagen. 

Benefits of Collagen

• Improves skin health 
• Supports heart health 
• Improves digestion
• Provides thicker hair
• Aids bones health 
• Supports joints
• Increases muscle mass 
• Sustains gut health 
• Improves metabolism 
• Supports overall health 

Why Should You Take Collagen? 

Your body produces less collagen as you age, and the existing collagen breaks down at a faster rate. After menopause women experience a significant reduction in collagen production. It's common for everyone to experience a decrease in collagen production after age 60. Many randomized controlled trials have found that collagen supplements improve skin elasticity. Other trials have found that collagen can improve joint mobility and decrease joint pain. 

You Might Need a Collagen Supplement If….

• Your skin is wrinkled
• Your skin is crepey or sagging
• Muscle aches
• Thinning hair
• Weak nails 
• Loss of mobility due to joint damage or stiffness 
• Weakening and shrinking muscles

Why is Collagen Important?

As you age, your bones lose density and become more brittle which makes them break easier and take longer to heal. Some research has found that taking collagen powder daily could help make your bones denser and help your body produce new bones. Collagen also provides a protective covering for organs while also helping to keep the shape of your arteries and blood vessels. If you lack collagen, your arteries may weaken. Fragile blood vessels increase the risk of atherosclerosis, which could lead to heart attack or stroke. A small study conducted on healthy people found that collagen powder helps maintain healthy arteries and helps reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. 

Side Effects  

Side effects of collagen supplements are rare. However if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, it may be best to avoid collagen supplements at this time. There isn’t enough research yet to determine their safety.