All About Collagen!
It's one of the most widely discussed supplements, but what is Collagen and is it worth all the hype?
What is Collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and is responsible for the connective tissue keeping our skin, bone, tendons and cartilage healthy. Our bodies make collagen naturally from amino acids (the building blocks of proteins), however our collagen production decreases as we age. It has been suggested that taking collagen as a supplement may help to slow this age related decline in collagen production but the big question is, is it effective?
For more information on the types of collagen and the dosage to take, login to DediKate and check out Amy’s Eat Great chat, Ep #53 - All About Collagen!
What is Collagen good for?
Joint Health
Collagen supplementation has been found to decrease pain and improve stiffness in osteoarthritis (1). Collagen supplementation may also help to keep connective tissues in tendons and ligaments strong in active people who frequently use them. This is great news for athletes prone to injury in agility sports or running etc. Collagen may also increase recovery of connective tissues following injury.
Skin Health
There is some evidence that collagen supplementation increases skin elasticity and promotes skin hydration (2). This could lead to an improved appearance in lines and wrinkles. However, most of the research currently showing favourable results for collagen supplements has been paid for by the collagen supplement industry, using poor study designs. Therefore we are in need of some more scientifically robust and less biased research for definitive answers.
Bone Health
There is some evidence that collagen supplementation can improve bone mineral density, meaning the thickness and strength of the bone, in post menapausal women (3). This is significant as bone density becomes increasingly difficult to maintain for aging women and can have huge health implications.
Find out more about Collagen!
Take a listen to Amy's DediKate Eat Great chat, Ep #53 - All About Collagen! Members can find this HERE. If you're not already a member, sign up to your 2 week free trial and get started today!
Is a Collagen supplement a good idea for YOU? Find out below!
Should You be Taking Collagen?
There is evidence supporting collagen supplements for a few different reasons however the evidence is not overwhelming for any of these cases just yet. Therefore, collagen should not be used as the first line of defense against conditions such as tendon injury and bone loss, even though it may help. Collagen has been found to be very safe for ingestion so if you feel like it may help you, there’s no harm in trying.
Let’s Sum It Up
Collagen is a protein that is abundant in the body, responsible for connective tissue in skin, bone and joints. There is evidence that collagen supplements can improve joint issues such as osteoarthritis and reduce injury of joint connective tissue. Collagen may also improve the appearance of skin however more research is required. Collagen may also improve bone health in post menapausal women. Collagen supplementation is considered safe.
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For more information on the types of collagen and the dosage to take, login to DediKate and check out Amy’s Eat Great chat, Ep #53 - All About Collagen!
