It is essentially the ‘glue’ that holds our body together, enables us to move and find stability.Collagen is a structural protein made up of amino acids that’s found naturally in the connective tissue of our bodies, such as our skin, hair, muscles, bones and even blood vessels,” Keri Gans, registered dietitian nutritionist and author of The Small Change Diet,
tells Yahoo Lifestyle. “It is essentially the ‘glue’ that holds our body together, enables us to move and find stability.”CAD-31
skin looking smooth, firm, and wrinkle-free. But collagen production slows down as we age, which is why many people are turning to consuming collagen peptides (also known as hydrolyzed collagen) in the hopes that the supplements will reverse or at least stave off skin aging.’ data-reactid=”26″>And it’s that structure and support that plays a role in keeping skin looking smooth, firm, and wrinkle-free. But collagen production slows down as we age, which is why many people are turning to consuming collagen peptides (also known as hydrolyzed collagen) in the hopes that the supplements will reverse or at least stave off skin aging.
“The hope for ingestible collagen is that it helps strengthen our skin to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as enhance skin texture,” Zeichner tells Yahoo Lifestyle.But does consuming collagen powder actually do anything? Possibly.
“The true benefit of ingestible collagen is unclear,” says Zeichner. “Since collagen is a large molecule, it is broken down by our gut into smaller pieces. The smaller pieces and individual amino acids may serve as building blocks for new collagen production. I look at ingestible collagen similar to the way I look at eating a high-protein meal.”
Adds Gans: “Many individuals believe the numerous health claims in regards to collagen. There are claims that it can reduce constipation, improve gut health, improve sleep,
decrease anxiety, reduce joint pain, eliminate food cravings and has anti-aging properties.”
review of several studies showed that collagen supplements increase skin elasticity and hydration.” While it’s no fountain of youth, there is some good news for people who are
consuming collagen hoping to improve their skin and hair. “One small study revealed collagen supplements improved skin elasticity, but didn’t do any more than a placebo to
improve skin moisture and evaporation,” says Gans. A 2019 review of several studies showed that collagen supplements increase skin elasticity and hydration.
food allergies.’ Collagen supplements are considered safe for the most part — as Zeichner puts it: “The only harm is to your pocketbook, as many of the collagen powders are
pricey.” However, it’s important to read up on the source of the supplement’s main ingredient. The collagen found in supplements is typically sourced from cow (bovine) hides, as
well as chicken cartilage, but in some cases they can be made from fish or eggs, which can be dangerous for people with those food allergies.
“As with any supplement, one should read the label closely to make sure it doesn’t include any allergens that they are sensitive to,” suggests Gans. “Also, if on any medications a person should discuss with their doctor or a registered dietitian before implementing in their daily diet.”