Collagen is a popular ingredient in the world of beauty and wellness. It helps make the skin fresh and dewy, the nails and bones strong, and the joints free of pain. People have been using the product topically, injecting it, or having collagen pills as part of their beauty regimen. The clean and healthy eating crowd is claiming that collagen is the new ingredient to enhance physical performance, improve gut health, and relieve achy joints.
What Is Collagen?
Collagen is a kind of protein that is present in the connective tissues in the body. This means that it is found in your bones, blood vessels, muscles, hair, and skin. Collagen contains amino acids that are necessary to repair the joints, bones, and muscles. These building blocks of protein also promote healthy skin and hair. In other words, collagen works like glue inside the body, keeping everything together. Aside from the amino acids, the body makes collagen from the vitamins and minerals that you eat.
But, as the body ages, the production of collagen starts to decrease as well. So, during your mid-twenties, your body will not repair itself as quickly as before. While this decline in the amount of collagen in your body is inevitable and natural, it will have an impact on your body. Since collagen comprises 75% of the skin, you are likely to see some sagging, wrinkles, or cellulite. Also, thinning cartilage, slower muscle recovery, and creaky joints can be due to the reduction of collagen.
This is where collagen supplements enter the picture.
Many people have been using topical and injectable forms of collagen for a while. But, they only focus on a specific area, for example, the lines on the forehead. With collagen pills, they are the new trend in collagen treatment, suggesting that ingesting them proves to be more beneficial.
- Taking these pills can help lower the risk of heart-related illnesses. Collagen helps with the structure of blood vessels in the arteries, which transport blood from the heart to other parts of the body. If there is a lack of collagen in the body, this weakens the arteries and disrupts their bodily function.
- About 10% of the muscle tissue is made of collagen, which aids in keeping the muscles strong and in good condition. Taking collagen supplements regularly can help increase muscle mass, particularly with individuals who have sarcopenia.
- When the amount of collagen declines in the body, it also affects the bone mass. This low bone density may cause osteoporosis. Studies have revealed that taking collagen supplements can help prevent the breakdown of bone that results in osteoporosis.
- Another benefit of taking collagen supplements is that it keeps the integrity of the cartilage. As your body gets older and the collagen decreases, this increases the risk of acquiring degenerative joint disorders. When you take collagen pills, it can help alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis and overall joint pain.
You do not need to wait to be over 25 years old to start adding collagen to your daily diet. Now is the best time to consume your daily dose of collagen as part of your self-care. Collagen supplements are healthy and useful in promoting strong joints, and more. Remember to discuss with your physician if you are planning to introduce collagen supplements in your diet.