If you are interested in taking a collagen supplement, you might be asking yourself, “What are the benefits of taking collagen?” Well, it is important to understand that there are many different types of collagen supplements on the market, and it’s important to find the right one for you. Collagen health benefits range from pain relief, to gut health, and even skin health.
What Collagen Is
Collagen is a fibrous protein that is produced in the body and is a key component of connective tissue. It helps keep the skin, joints, and bones strong and healthy. It is the most abundant protein in the human body, accounting for about one-third of the total proteins and making up three-quarters of the dry weight of the skin. The primary purpose of collagen is to provide structure to the bones and muscles, as well as to the skin and blood vessels. As we age, our body’s natural collagen breaks down, but by taking a supplement, you can help increase your body’s supply. You can buy these supplements in liquid form, capsules, or powders.
Collagen is made from amino acids and is found in many foods. Some foods that contain high levels of collagen include eggs, meat, dairy, and legumes. It is a natural product that occurs in all animals. In order to make it, the amino acids glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline need to be combined in a triple-helix structure. This requires the presence of zinc, manganese, and vitamin C. Studies have shown that taking a supplemental form of collagen can improve joint health. It can also help prevent muscle loss.
Sources Of Collagen
Collagen is made up of three amino acids: proline, hydroxyproline, and glycine. These amino acids work together to make the triple helix structure of collagen. Increasing the intake of these amino acids can increase the production of collagen.
The best way to get these amino acids is through a high-protein diet. Ensure that you include foods such as legumes, nuts, and whole grains in your meal plan. Vegetables are also a good source of vitamins and nutrients, which aid in the production of collagen. Leafy greens, for example, contain antioxidants and are rich in chlorophyll. Other vegetables like bell peppers and strawberries are excellent sources of vitamin C.
Collagen is most abundant in meats such as fish, chicken, and beef. However, if you are vegetarian or vegan, there are plant-based sources of collagen such as soybeans, tempeh, and mushrooms. You can also find supplemental forms of collagen in powder and capsule form at your local health food store or online. Bone broth is another good source of collagen. You can create your own broth by simmering animal bones and cartilage in water. A cup of bone broth will provide 7-10 grams of collagen. The best type of bones for this purpose are knuckle bones, typically knuckle bones from a cow or pig.
Collagen Versus Gelatin
Gelatin is a form of collagen that has been processed for culinary use. It is made by boiling animal bones, ligaments, and tendons to extract the collagen. Gelatin is often used in gummy candies and desserts such as jelly or mousse. Gelatin does not provide any additional health benefits over straight collagen, as gelatin does not have the same triple helix structure found in collagen.
Collagen For Skin Health
Collagen is a protein that is essential for healthy skin. It is found in our bodies and is used to build up connective tissue, making our skin firm and strong. The fibroblasts in the deeper layers of our skin produce collagen fibers. Taking collagen supplements can help improve your skin’s elasticity. This helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and can also keep your skin hydrated.
Some other benefits collagen can provide to the skin are reducing the appearance of dark spots, reducing inflammation, and increasing circulation. Many topical treatments contain collagen to help boost skin health.
Collagen For Joint Pain Relief
Joint pain can be debilitating. A collagen supplement can help alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. This supplement can help to strengthen the cartilage, which protects joints and helps them absorb shock.
Research has shown that some collagen supplements can reduce joint pain within a week. Some have also been able to decrease inflammation between joints. Using collagen can also improve overall bone health. Collagen can be found in the skin, hair, nails, bones, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels.
In addition to supporting healthy bones and muscles, collagen can also help reduce inflammation and improve recovery after an injury. In some cases, it can even help prevent bone breakdown.
Collagen For Gut Health
Taking a collagen supplement for gut health is a good way to help heal your digestive tract. Not only does it promote proper digestion, but it may also protect your gut from a number of harmful bacteria. Collagen can also help to reduce symptoms of leaky gut, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It has even been shown to improve nutrient absorption.
Collagen also supports healthy digestion by breaking down food. The hydrophilic properties of this molecule allow it to attract water, making it easier for food to move through the digestive tract.
Some of the benefits of collagen include the ability to promote healthy arteries, strengthen the immune system, and heal damaged cell walls. In addition, it has been shown to support normal phase two liver detoxification.
Collagen Side Effects
There are several different types of collagen. These include bovine collagen, which is the most common type. Marine or fish collagen is also available, and is especially beneficial for the skin. When you’re considering using collagen supplements, you need to make sure that you’re taking the right amount. If you take too much, you may experience side effects.
One of the most common problems with taking collagen supplements is digestive discomfort. This is typically caused by the collagen peptides that are used in the product. Some people report that the use of collagen supplements can affect their sleep. Reduced levels of tryptophan can lead to poor sleep and a slowed-down sleep-wake cycle. Other possible side effects include an upset stomach, constipation, and heartburn. Those who have these problems should speak with their physician before attempting to use collagen.
In conclusion, collagen is a powerful protein that can support our skin, bones, joints, and gut health. Taking the right amount of collagen supplements can help reduce pain and inflammation, while also promoting healthy skin. However, it’s important to understand any potential side effects before taking a collagen supplement. It’s also recommended that you speak with your doctor to make sure this supplement is right for you.
