What Is In Collagen Supplements

Understanding Collagen

Collagen came from the Greek word “kolla” meaning glue and gen meaning producing. It is like a producing gel that holds together the skin, tendons, bones, cartilage, and all other connective tissues like glue. As you get older, your body produces less collagen and the quality of the collagen also deteriorates, as you notice your skin wrinkles, joints become stiff, having difficulty moving, and muscle and bone pain.

Collagen supplements became popular for treating these problems. They are available in different forms, such as powder, capsule, and liquid. You can take them orally or add them to your food or drinks.

Collagen powder is a dietary supplement that is usually made from animal sources, such as bovine, fish, chicken, or eggshell. Collagen can’t be absorbed in as a whole form. It has to be broken down into smaller peptides or amino acids and is hydrolyzed, meaning it is broken down into smaller molecules that are easier to absorb by the body.

The Health Benefits of Collagen Supplements

Collagen has many benefits for your health and beauty,

• It improves skin elasticity, slows down wrinkles, and provides hydration.
• It gives support to joint, makes them flexible, and aid in mobilization.
• Prevent bone loss and improve bone density for menopausal women.
• Improves heart health, collagen powder keeps arteries healthier and helps reduce the risk of atherosclerosis.

It also has some potential side effects and risks. Some people may experience allergic reactions, digestive issues, or kidney problems from taking collagen supplements. The products may also interact with some medications or medical conditions, so you should consult your doctor before using them. Collagen is not a miracle cure for aging, and it may not work for everyone, so it is important to follow the instructions on the label and consult your doctor before taking any supplements.

What Is In Collagen Supplements

Collagen supplements can contain up to five types, varying in type and amount. The body needs the first five types of collagen the most.

• Type I: is the most common and consists 90% of your body’s collagen. It provides structure to your skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and organs. It is also found in your teeth and between organs.
• Type II: This type is found in elastic cartilage, which provides joint support.
• Type III: This type is found in your skin, muscles, and blood vessels. It is commonly found alongside type I and plays a role in replacing dead skin cells.
• Type IV: This type is found in the layers of your skin. It helps to form the basement membrane, which is a thin layer that separates the skin from the underlying tissues.
• Type V: This type is found in the cornea of your eyes, some layers of skin, hair, and tissue of the placenta. It helps to form the fibrils that are the building blocks of collagen.

It’s important to know the different types of collagen before choosing a product that matches your needs. Recently, collagen powders and capsules have become quite popular as an addition to coffee and smoothies.

Collagen cream contains large molecules that do not penetrate the first skin layer. However, it does help to plump, hydrate, and brighten the skin, filling in fine lines and wrinkles. When our skin is hydrated and plump, it helps prevent the development of new fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, hydrolyzed collagen peptides in supplement form have been shown to improve skin hydration, elasticity, and collagen density in the dermis, including in the face.

Choosing the Right Collagen Supplements

When selecting a collagen product, make sure to check the ingredients and additives. Keep it simple and look for beneficial additives like vitamin C, which can help with collagen production. Avoid unnecessary additives like sugar, artificial flavors, and preservatives.

When searching for a supplement, ensure that it contains at least 9 different amino acids and 5 types of collagens. There is no conclusive evidence on whether 5 types of collagens in a supplement are better than 3 types. This is because different types of collagens may have unique benefits and effects on the body. However, it is important to keep in mind that:

• Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 are the most common than Type 4 and Type 5 but it is best to see what your body needs.
• The source, form, and quality of the collagen supplement may also affect its bioavailability, absorption, and effectiveness. Hydrolyzed collagen (collagen peptides) is the easiest to digest. Marine collagen may have higher bioavailability than bovine or poultry collagen.
• It’s crucial to choose a product that undergoes third-party testing because FDA doesn’t regulate collagen powder or any other type of dietary supplement.

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Aside from taking these supplements, it is best to always help your body make collagen naturally by eating a well-balanced diet full of healthy foods. A well-balanced diet includes chicken, beef, fish, dairy, eggs, beans, leafy greens, other vegetables, whole grains and citrus fruits.