Sometimes when something is wrong, you have to look at the foundation. In our bodies, this could translate to looking at a protein called collagen. This protein is found in your muscles, skin, bones, blood, ligaments, and cartilage and makes up 25% of your total protein content (3). Around the age of 25, people begin to break down collagen quicker than they produce it. Collagen production can also decrease with smoking, sun exposure, and an unhealthy diet. Today, collagen has become a popular supplement and topic. This abundant protein supplementation only seems to grow in popularity as more research supports the benefits it offers.
By adding collagen supplementation to your diet, it can relieve joint pain by supporting the cartilage that breaks down. For the skin, collagen improves elasticity and provides plumpness to it. A reduction in wrinkles, dryness, and waviness of skin such as cellulite is also seen with collagen supplements. Some research supports collagen aiding in the production of muscle mass. The protective lining in the gut can benefit from collagen because the protein is abundant in the gut. Some say collagen may prevent bone loss. This was seen from a study involving women taking calcium and collagen and women that just took calcium. The women with calcium and collagen found less proteins in their blood that break down their bones. However, more evidence is needed to support this claim (1)(2).
Research still continues to validate and invalidate collagen benefits. Vital Proteins is one company that has unique ways to add collagen to your diet such as powders or drinking collagen water. However, there are also collagen pills that may be more beneficial to you. Likewise, bone broth is rich in amino acids that can produce collagen powder. Try collagen out and see if it works for you!
Two quick smoothies I made whilst experimenting with my new collagen. Thank you @nobread!
