What is Collagen?

Collagen is a structural protein, present abundantly in the body. It plays an important role in the formation of connective tissues due to its fibre-like structure making the tissues strong and fierce to tolerate stretching [1]. It is one of the major constituents of skin, muscles, bone, blood vessels and tendons.

Naturally, it is found in the flesh of animals like fish and meat. However, plants are also a great source of the production of collagen in our bodies. As we age, the production of collagen drops in our bodies. In most cases, it drops due to smoking, lack of sleep and exercise, and sun exposure.

 

Collagen Supplements:

Despite the presence of an abundant amount of collagen in the body, it is still known for being the top-rated supplement used to improve the skin, nails and hair. The idea of using the collagen for improvement of skin, hair and nails has attracted many people as it has no side effects.

In the beginning, collagen was added to the creams and serums for the improvement of the skin. Later, dermatologists concluded that collagen is found inside the skin in the deeper layers so its tropical application might not make any difference [2].

So, collagen supplements were formulated for oral use. Its oral use in the form of pills, in particular foods and powders, was found more effective for its absorption. They are also available in the market in the form of collagen peptides and hydrolyzed collagen. Collagen supplements comprise amino acids, biotin, zinc and vitamin C.

 

What are the Healthcare Benefits of Collagen Supplements?

Collagen supplements provide a range of benefits, some of which are the following [3]:

• Improvement of skin health:

Collagen plays a vital role in the overall health of the skin. It strengthens your skin, improves its elasticity and hydrates the skin. As you grow older, there is a reduction in the formation of collagen which leads to wrinkles and dry skin. Collagen supplements may help in slowing down the ageing of the skin, making it appear better by reducing dryness and wrinkles.

 

• Heart health:

Collagen supplements are found to reduce the risk of heart diseases, as collagen is the major constituent of the blood vessels and the arteries. Collagen bundles strengthen the blood vessels and enhance their elasticity and flexibility. It plays a vital role in maintaining the lumen of blood vessels preventing them from narrowing down.

 

• Mitigation of joint pain:

Collagen supplements have positive effects on joint and bone pain. Collagen strengthens muscle fibres and improves pain in osteoarthritis. They significantly reduce joint stiffness, pain, and mobility issues.

 

• Improvement of muscle mass:

Collagen plays an important role in the improvement of muscle mass. Decreased muscle mass due to old age and other disorders can be improved with collagen supplements. The patients with sarcopenia showed an improvement in muscle mass due to the intake of collagen supplements [4].

 

 

 

 

References:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507709/#:~:text=Collagen%20is%20protein%20molecules%20made,tendons%2C%20bones%2C%20and%20ligaments.
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6835901/
3.  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7271718/
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4594048/

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