Collagen supplements are popular nowadays as collagen is responsible for skin elasticity and has other biological functions. Many people are buying or interested to know about it, what are they or do the supplements work or not, etc.
Do you also have these questions in your mind? Then you are at the right place. As in this article, we have covered everything about collagen supplements and their effectiveness.
Why is it so popular?
Collagen is a filamentous protein naturally found in skin, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissues. The human body comprises 33% of collagen protein. It is responsible for healthy joints, skin elasticity, stretchiness, and muscle strength. The protein is naturally produced in our body and has different types I, II, and III. Collagens’ number and production decrease as we age because the existing collagens break down with age, and it gets hard for the body to produce more collagen.
It is believed that its less quantity is responsible for the aging signs like wrinkles, joint pains, and all, so it’s not a surprise that many people are turning towards collagen supplements as an anti-aging regime and maintaining a youthful appearance.
What are collagen supplements?
Usually, collagen supplements are made of animal products like bone broth using pigs, beef, cows, and fish. But there are vegan products available as well that are slowly gaining popularity.
The collagen supplements may vary in composition as some contain a particular type of collagen (I, II, and III) or a mixture. So, while buying, do consider your purpose in taking collagen supplements.
Collagen supplements come in various forms like powders, capsules, and creams.
Are collagen supplements effective?
When you consume collagen supplements, it breaks down into amino acids then gets absorbed to produce more collagen and other proteins in the body. The amino acids are necessary for producing collagen and other proteins, which you can get from other foods. Still, supplements are considered more effective as they have more amino acids than any dietary food. The manufacturers claim that it reduces wrinkles, relieves joint pain, and makes your nails stronger. Now, is it true?
Collagen supplements have been studied and researched for more than a decade now, and there are areas where it is found more effective in the skin, bone health, building muscles, etc.
Many people who consume supplements (around 15 grams per day) said that it helps them in reducing the aging signs.
According to a study done by Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, a woman who took collagen supplements for eight weeks finds her skin improving elasticity and moisture level.
Another study, where an athlete takes collagen supplements for 24 weeks (10 grams per day), has improved his joint pain as it is suitable for bone health.
Hence, taking collagen supplements helps in improving skin health, joint health, and muscle strength.
How long do collagen supplements take to work?
The studies show that it takes around 1 or 2 months to see the results of collagen supplements, but it may vary from person to person.
Final thoughts
The collagen supplements are effective for reducing aging signs and relieving joint pains. But do remember when you take collagen supplements and look at its composition and find which type will suit your purpose, or you may consult your doctor.