Collagen has become a buzzword in the beauty and wellness industry, and for good reasons. It is the most abundant protein in the body, forming about 30% of all protein content. Unfortunately, as we age, the body’s ability to produce collagen decreases. Starting in our mid-20s, we lose about 1% of our collagen each year.
While there are many ways to prevent collagen loss, such as protecting your skin from the sun and adopting healthy eating habits, taking collagen supplements and drinks is by far the most convenient option.
Let’s look at some prominent health benefits of taking collagen supplements and drinks:
Improved Skin Elasticity and Appearance
A decrease in collagen production leads to visible signs of aging, like dryness, fine lines, and sagging skin. Collagen is a protein that gives your skin structure and keeps it firm. It also improves blood flow to the skin, ensuring a younger appearance.
What makes collagen powder particularly appealing is its bioavailability. For example, hydrolysed collagen peptides are easily absorbed into the bloodstream. While Vitamin C serums can work on the surface, collagen supplements work at a cellular level, giving your skin that much-needed glow from within.
Stronger Joints
Collagen is crucial for building cartilage, the smooth, rubbery tissue that cushions your joints and allows them to move freely. Prolonged physically stressful activities can naturally reduce collagen levels. Collagen supplements and drinks can help counteract this balance and increase joint strength.
Collagen intake can be especially beneficial for people with osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease that often affects weight-bearing joints like knees and hips. It can stimulate your body’s natural collagen production and help reduce stiffness and discomfort during daily activities.
If you’ve a severe medical joint condition, consult with your healthcare provider to find the most beneficial collagen type and dosage.
Bone Strength
Low bone density is one of the most common conditions in aging adults. It causes bone minerals to decline, increasing the risk of fractures.
A study in 2018 looked at the effects of specific collagen peptides on bone health in 131 menopausal people with reduced bone mineral density. The participants took 5 g of collagen peptides daily for 12 months. The results were positive, showing increased bone mineral density and improved bone markers.
In 2021, a long-term study found similar results. The participants, over the course of 4 years, didn’t experience bone fractures and showed increased bone mineral density.
Gut Health Support
The lining of your digestive tract is made of connective tissue that contains collagen. When harmful substances enter your bloodstream, this lining is weakened. As a result, you might experience a condition called “leaky gut,” where toxins and undigested food particles trigger inflammation. Collagen can help repair the lining of your digestive tract.
Collagen is rich in amino acids, particularly glycine, proline, and glutamine. In particular, glycine helps regulate stomach acid and supports the breakdown of food.
Bovine collagen supplements or drinks are especially beneficial for better gut health. It can improve nutrient absorption and soothe conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
