Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It is the main component of connective tissues. It has many important functions, including ensuring skin elasticity and strengthening bones. In recent years, collagen supplements have become popular. Most of them are hydrolyzed, which means that the collagen has been broken down, which facilitates its absorption. There are also several foods that you can eat to increase your collagen intake, including pork skin and bone broth. Consumption of collagen can have a number of health benefits, from relieving joint pain to improving skin health.
1. It can improve the condition of the skin
Collagen is a major component of human skin. It plays an important role in strengthening it and can also contribute to its flexibility and hydration. As we age, our body produces less collagen, which leads to dry skin and the formation of wrinkles. However, several studies have shown that collagen peptides or collagen-containing supplements can slow skin aging by reducing wrinkles and drying out. The wrinkle-reducing effects of collagen supplements are attributed to its ability to stimulate our body to produce collagen on its own. In addition, taking collagen supplements can support the production of other proteins that help structure your skin, including elastin and fibrilin. There are also many unofficial claims that collagen supplements help prevent acne and other skin conditions, but these are not supported by scientific evidence.
2. Helps relieve joint pain
Collagen helps maintain the integrity of our cartilage, which is the rubber tissue that protects our joints. As the amount of collagen in our body decreases, as we age, the risk of developing degenerative joint disorders, such as osteoarthritis, increases. Some studies have shown that taking collagen supplements can help improve the symptoms of osteoarthritis and reduce joint pain overall. Researchers believe that supplemental collagen can accumulate in cartilage and stimulate your tissues to produce collagen. He believes this can lead to reduced inflammation, better joint support and reduced pain.
3. It could prevent bone loss
Our bones are made mostly of collagen, which gives them structure and helps keep them strong. Just as collagen in our body deteriorates with age, so does bone mass. This can lead to conditions such as osteoporosis, which is characterized by low bone density and is associated with a higher risk of bone fractures. Studies have shown that the use of collagen supplements can have certain effects in the body that help inhibit the breakdown of bones that lead to osteoporosis.