Of the many health supplements, right now collagen is one of the hottest. How do we know if all the hype is true? What is it and how is it supposed to help us?
So, what is collagen?
Collagen is a protein in our bodies, the most abundant one. It is what our bones, skin, muscles and ligaments are made of.
Most common types of collagen
Collagen is broken down into "Types" with I, II and III being the most common in our bodies.
Type I is made of densely packed fibers needed for teeth, bones, ligaments, skin and connective tissue which is most of the collagen in our bodies.
Type II provides joint support.
Type III is in the structure of muscles, arteries and organs.
As we get older, we produce less and less collagen, which is thought to contribute to aging skin and wrinkles as well as joint pain.
Smoking and too much sun exposure may also damage collagen production.
How do we support collagen with food sources and supplements?
Collagen proteins must be broken down into peptides, or amino acids, so they can be absorbed by the human body.
Collagen supplements are processed and broken down into peptides of a few amino acids, increasing the ability for them to be absorbed by us through our intestinal tract.
In addition to supplements, collagen is found in food, with bone broth being a very rich source. (See our easy recipe for bone broth here)
Since most meat contains connective tissue it is a good source of collagen as well. Plant and animal protein sources both can provide the raw materials needed for adequate collagen production since we cannot absorb it in its whole form.
These supplement peptides can also be used in our bodies to support other proteins. Your body utilizes peptides where it needs it most.
Is there research?
Research has been conducted by the Society of Chemical Industry professionals and has shown that supplements are beneficial and do support skin and joint health. However, these studies have been small and more research is needed and is being conducted now since collagen peptide supplementation has become so popular.
Additional research published in The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology shows that collagen supplementation may improve skin elasticity, slowing down or even reversing skin aging.
Conclusions from these studies are easily found through internet searches, such as this one in The Semantic Scholar.
So, is taking a collagen supplement for you?
Of course, this is entirely up to you. Good diet and exercise are always the best way to support our bodies and what we need.
There are times, though, that we know we are missing a few important pieces to our diets and that is why we add supplements.
It you think you are missing peptide amino acids then add our Well Life Collagen Peptides Powder Supplement, with the ingredients of Hydrolyzed Bovine Collagen Peptides, Hydrolyzed Fish Collagen Peptides, Hydrolyzed Chicken Collagen, Eggshell Membrane Collagen
We would love to hear about your results!
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Furthermore, none of the statements on this web site should be construed as dispensing medical advice, making claims regarding the cure of diseases, nor can these products prevent heat stroke, hyponatremia, or any other injurious results of excessive physical exhaustion. You, the athlete, must listen to your body and use common sense to avoid serious injury.
You should consult a licensed health care professional before starting any supplement, dietary, or exercise program, especially if you are pregnant or have any pre-existing injuries or medical conditions.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.