There is a fundamental link between mental and physical health which is why most people have more confidence when they’re looking their best. Without a doubt, leading a healthy lifestyle and taking the needed supplements play an important role in feeling and looking your best. One of the best supplements to slow down the signs of aging, boost skin elasticity and boost bone density is collagen.
Up until a couple of years ago, most people believed that collagen is meant only for the elderly only. However, recent studies have shown that it offers a plethora of benefits for people of all ages and walks of life. From boosting bone, hair and nail health to cultivating an overall sense of well-being, collagen supplement in all forms has been the star ingredient of many celebrities’ diets. However, there’s much more to it – collagen provides a unique range of benefits that everyone should reap.
What is Collagen?
Collagen is a tissue high in protein that can be found between bones. Just like in human bones, collagen can also be found in poultry and livestock which is why a lot of people love preparing and eating broth and stock. While broth is made from whole meat/steak, stock is made from bones. No wonder why veal stock is so popular.
There are three types of collagen in the human body.
Type I can be found in the entire body and it’s crucial for the structure of the skin, bones and tendons.
Type II connects the joints and has a major role in the structure of the body.
Type III collagen makes up the structure of larger blood vessels, like arteries, and the structure of some internal organs like the intestines.
Although our body produces collagen on its own, this production starts decreasing in our mid-20s. In the first five years in menopause women can lose up to 30% of collagen. Unfortunately, this loss can affect the proper functioning of the entire body, which is why it’s important to take the proper collagen food supplement dose.
Types of Collagen Supplements
Collagen supplements are usually sourced from cows, fish or pigs and may contain type I, II and III of collagen. They can be found at pharmacies, certain grocery stores and of course online in certified shops. They can come in the form of pills, specialised drinks and in the form of collagen powder (the most commonly used form). When made into a supplement, collagen can become either hydrolysed collagen, gelatin or undenatured collagen.
Hydrolysed Collagen
This type of collagen is broken down into amino acids that make up proteins. The hydrolysed form of the collagen supplement is more available to the body’s tissue and can work better than the gelatin form.
Gelatin
This form is broken down to smaller protein components. A good example of gelatin collagen is the one obtained from boiling bone and cartilage into bone broth. However, there aren’t enough studies confirming that gelatin can affect bone and skin health.
Undenatured Type II Collagen (UC-II)
This supplement is mainly used for treating rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. These two conditions may cause the immune system to destroy the collagen in the body. By taking the recommended dose, collagen supplements can help build up the body’s tolerance to collagen and prevent it from further eliminating it.
Do Collagen Supplements Work?
Yes, they do, but only if taken in the right doses. Thus, consulting with a medical person is needed in order to reap the full range of benefits.
How Long Does it Take for Collagen Supplements to Work?
Collagen supplements can be quickly absorbed in the body, however, it will take some time until you see the benefits. This can also depend on the health condition of the individual as well as the frequency of their consumption.
Benefits of Taking Collagen Food Supplements
Skin Health
The body can naturally lose collagen over the years, which can lead to skin ageing. This is where collagen supplements come to the rescue. Taking the proper dose regularly may boost skin collagen levels, resulting in fine complexion, improved skin elasticity, reduced wrinkles and more.
Joint Health
Collagen is also needed for keeping the joints healthy because it contains amino acids. Collagen type II is also found in cartilage (the protective cushioning between joints) and its wear is the most common problem in people dealing with osteoarthritis (OA). This can lead to numerous health conditions like stiffness, pain, inflammation, and reduce hand, knees and hips function. Luckily, the use of UC-II and hydrolysed collagen supplements can make up for this collagen loss and may even help in treating OA.
Bone Health
Since collagen is the main protein in bones, using it in the form of supplements can certainly help you boost bone density. Taking collagen in the form of supplements can also protect you from osteoporosis – a condition that weakens the bones.