8 Amazing Benefits of Collagen

Eight Amazing Benefits of Collagen

Collagen is a crucial component in our hair, skin, nails, bones, muscles, and other body
parts. Many people take collagen supplements to improve their skin and hair health,
among many other benefits, but how effective is it? Here are the benefits of collagen for
your body.

May Enhance Skin Health

Collagen makes up a big part of our skin by giving it strength and elasticity and
improving hydration. As you mature, your body produces less collagen, which can lead
to wrinkles and drier skin.
However, studies show that collagen powder improves skin health by slowing the aging
process, reducing the appearance of wrinkles, and keeping skin hydrated.

Promotes Healthy Hair

Collagen may promote healthy hair in several ways. For one, your body may be able to
use the amino acids in collagen to build hair proteins and strengthen the skin that
contains your hair roots. It may also prevent hair follicle damage and graying.

Toughens Your Nails

Nails are a beauty accessory, especially for women, and strong, healthy nails can
complete your desired look. In this regard, a 2017 study found that ingesting oral
collagen peptides can boost nail growth and make nails more resistant to breakage.

Averts Atherosclerosis-Cholesterol Build-up

Atherosclerosis is a medical condition whereby cholesterol plaque builds up on the inner
walls of an artery. This condition usually presents no symptoms until the plaque bursts,
which can be life-threatening.
Collagen could play a role in averting this disaster. Medical researchers have found that
plaque surrounded by more collagen is less likely to burst.
A 2017 study concluded that supplementing collagen tripeptide may help prevent and
even treat the condition. During the study, 32 healthy subjects took collagen for about
six months. As a result, their ratios of ‘good’ to ‘bad’ cholesterol improved, and other key
markers associated with atherosclerosis. Studies have shown that taking collagen
supplements can reduce artery stiffness and increase levels of “good” HDL cholesterol
in the body. This means it can help reduce your risk of developing heart conditions

Alleviates Pain

A 2017 study of 139 athletes with knee pain found that those who took collagen
experienced significantly less pain during exercise. Moreover, the group that took the
collagen supplements did not require treatments like ice packs to numb their pain.
Another 2021 study of 90 individuals aged 40 to 65 concluded that collagen
supplements greatly reduced joint pain and stiffness compared with a group that took a
placebo (sugar pill).
Researchers have suggested that supplementing with collagen can lead to its
accumulation in cartilage. This stimulates your tissues to synthesize collagen. As a
result, inflammation levels may decrease, joint support may improve, and pain may
decrease.

Develops Your Bones

Osteoporosis reduces bone mass, making bones more fragile. However, it is possible to
counter this condition. A 2016 review of human cells in a laboratory found that collagen
supplements can address osteoporosis.
In another 2018 study, 131 postmenopausal women committed to taking collagen
supplements daily for an entire year. As a result, their bone mineral density increased
significantly in their femurs and spines.

Fill Out Your Muscles

A 2015 study asked older men to supplement with collagen and do resistance training
three times a week for 12 weeks. Participants increased lean body mass and muscle
endurance while lowering fat mass.
Younger people can also reap collagen benefits, as shown in a 2019 study in which 57
young male participants increased their lean muscle mass after a rigorous training
regimen with collagen supplementation.

Improves Cartilage Health for Cushy Joints

Collagen peptides benefit your cartilage by stimulating collagen production in the
cartilage and other tissues in your body. Osteoarthritis is a condition that degenerates
the joints where the cartilage lies, causing pain and impaired function.
A 2016 review looked at nine human studies, and researchers found that collagen
hydrolysate could help alleviate osteoarthritis. The compound could also increase bone
mineral density, protect joint cartilage, and reduce pain.
Collagen offers diverse benefits, and you may want to add it to your daily regimen to
support healthy hair, skin, nails, joints, muscles, and cardiovascular health.
Dr. Burkenstock has selected a range of physician-grade supplements to support skin,
joint, and whole-body health at any age. Browse Dr. B's Favorites to see what she
recommends to her own patients

Author: Dr B

Meet Dr. Kelly Burkenstock, a board-certified physician leading Skin Body Health in Mandeville and New Orleans with advanced anti-aging and hormone care.