Collagen is an important protein that is produced naturally by the body. The protein is crucial for providing strength to bones, joints, and muscles, and enhancing skin health. However, as we age our body’s ability to produce collagen naturally, as a result, the level of collagen present in the body starts to break down and decline. While eating food rich in collagen may help to increase its production in the body to some extent, individuals may also consider taking collagen supplements to support their health and well-being. However, before taking the supplements it is highly recommended to explore collagen benefits and uses to understand its scope and application. 

What is Collagen?

Collagen is a protein that is found in abundance in the body. Typically, collagen is the primary component of our connective tissues that helps build several parts of our body. For instance, collagen helps make up our skin, tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Notably, its most vital function is to provide structure to the skin and strengthen the bones.

Individuals can get their daily source of collagen from nutritious food including bone broth and pork skin. However, today, collagen supplements have also become a vital source of it. Notably, most forms of collagen are hydrolyzed, i.e., broken down to help the body absorb it more effectively later. 

Usually, we can find collagen supplements in the form of powder and pills. However, some may also avail them in the form of creams. It is always recommended to find a supplement that suits your needs and requirements to ensure effectiveness.

What are the Key Benefits of Using Collagen Supplement?

The major benefits of collagen supplements are discussed below –

• Improves the skin: Individuals who wish to improve the appearance of their skin and enhance its overall help can take the collagen supplement.

• Shows age-defying properties: It is believed that using collagen supplements regularly can help lower the signs of early aging. For instance, it can help increase the skin’s elasticity and boost its moisture level. In addition, the supplement can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

• May promote joint health: With an increase in age, the wear and tear of our joints starts to break down. Age starts to hamper the functioning of our spongy cartilage affecting joint health and mobility. In fact, evidence suggests collagen supplements may help prevent the deterioration of joints and cartilage.

• Avoid bone loss: Collagen supplements help make up a significant portion of bone structure. This helps to keep the bones and their structure strong. With age, our collagen production starts to slow down and bones become weaker, which often leads to conditions such as osteoporosis. So to boost their strength, we need to keep our collagen up and running.

• Supports cardiac health: Consuming collagen supplements may also help to support the overall health and well-being of our cardiovascular system. It can improve heart health and support its function.

Several claims have stated that collagen can also help the body in other ways. For instance, collagen supplements can help maintain gut health and can support them to maintain a healthy weight. In addition, collagen may help lower anxiety and improve mood. Other than that, supplements can help strengthen hair and nail growth and boost muscle mass. There is some evidence that suggests collagen is beneficial for our muscle mass. However, it should be noted that more research is needed to support these claims.

What Foods are High in Collagen Content?

We can easily find collagen content in food, particularly animal products in these –

• Gelatin
• Fish
• Bone broth
• Pork skin
• Beef
• Connective tissue or animals
• Chicken skin

Besides these foods rich in Vitamin C can also be beneficial. This is because vitamin C is deemed essential for collagen synthesis. Foods like citrus fruits, strawberries, and broccoli are rich in vitamin C.

What are Other Alternatives to Animal-based Sources of Collagen?

Collagen’s basic amino acid composition tends to differ largely from other protein sources. This is why choices are limited. Notably, vegan collagen can be developed from bacteria and yeast that are genetically modified and contain similar protein content as found in collagen. 

Besides these, a balanced diet rich in nutritious fruits, vegetables, and plant-based protein sources can help boost the body’s collagen production level. Notably, collagen turnover is quite a slow process. However, to see effects individuals must be regular in their collagen supplement consumption.

However, to pick a collagen supplement, individuals must keep a few things in mind, besides the benefits and uses of collagen. For instance, they should check the appropriate dosage for their needs, the ingredients, the presence of allergens in the composition, if any, and more importantly the form of Collagen. Next, they should consult with a professional to pick a suitable collagen product that can help address their concerns better.