Supports Healthy Joint Function
Improves Skin Health
Increased Bone Density
R290.00
Description
By now you’ve probably heard someone mention the word collagen at some point. It has become a popular supplement in many diets over the last few years. As this form of protein makes waves, it’s important to understand what it is and how it can help you.
Collagen has become a very ‘trendy’ supplement that offers a variety of benefits. No matter what health store you walk into, you’re bound to see many different options of collagen supplements from powders to capsules. With the vast amount of collagen supplements available comes a level of misinformation and products that make promises they simply can’t keep.
We’ve decided to break down everything you need to know about collagen in one simple blog so that you can make the best decision when deciding to up your collagen intake.
What is collagen?
Collagen is the most prominent type of protein found in your body, particularly in connective tissues like your tendons, ligaments, skin and muscles.
Collagen has many important functions in your body which include giving your skin a healthy structure and strengthening your bones.
Did you know there are 28 different types of collagen in your body?
The top 4 types are;
- The most common type is found in all connective tissue
- Collagen found in joints and your intervertebral discs (these are the little cushions that act as shock absorbers in your spine)
- The main component in reticular fibres found in your skin and blood vessels
- Collagen found in your kidneys, inner ear and your eye lens
Although collagen is naturally produced in your body, as you begin to age, your collagen production begins to decline. Poor health and nutrition can also have an impact on the collagen levels in your body.
What foods contain collagen?
You may be able to naturally increase your collagen levels by adding some of these foods to
your diet;
- Gelatin, such as bone broth – gelatin is a protein source derived from collagen once it’s been cooked
- Chicken skin, pork skin, beef, and fish are good sources of collagen
- Vitamin C is crucial in assisting the collagen to work well in your body. It’s a good idea to eat foods that are high in vitamin C like citrus fruits, broccoli and bell peppers
More research is needed to determine the benefits of collagen-rich foods as opposed to a collagen supplement.
Additional Information
The health benefits of collagen
Research on collagen supplements and their benefits is ongoing but many studies have shown that collagen may;
1. Improve skin health
Collagen is a major part of your skin’s overall health. It plays a big role in strengthening your skin and providing good elasticity and hydration. As you start to age, your collagen levels begin to decline leading to dry skin and an increase in wrinkles.
Many studies have shown that by taking collagen supplements you may help slow down your skin’s ageing and reduce the formation of wrinkles while keeping your skin hydrated.
2. Relieve joint pain
Collagen is incredible for maintaining the health and integrity of your cartilage which is the cushioning between your joints.
Research has shown that by adding collagen supplements to your daily routine, the collagen may build your cartilage and stimulate your tissues. This may then lead to less inflammation, better joint support and less pain.
3. Prevent bone loss
Your bones are mostly made up of collagen which is what gives your bones their strength and structure. As you age and your collagen production decreases, so does your bone mass which can lead to pain and conditions like osteoporosis.
Some studies have shown that collagen supplements may help to stop the breakdown of the bone and increase your bone mineral density.
Although there have been a variety of studies done on this, further research is needed.
4. Boost muscle mass
Collagen is a vital component of your skeletal muscle. Studies have shown that increasing your collagen levels can boost your muscle mass and promote strength especially combined with some form of physical exercise.
Even though collagen is a great supplement, it is not better than whey protein for building muscle. Collagen is lower in essential amino acids that are important to growing your muscles so if that is your main goal, it would be ideal to find a whey protein supplement that works for you.
5. Promote heart health
Some research has shown that collagen supplements may help to reduce the risk of heart conditions.
Collagen provides structure to your arteries and the blood vessels that move your blood from your heart throughout your body. If you don’t have enough collagen, your arteries could become less flexible.
This could lead to a variety of heart conditions thus adding a collagen supplement could assist in preventing this from happening.
6. Increase in other health benefits
Collagen has been shown to have benefits on the following;
- Your hair and nails, by taking collagen you could increase the strength of your nails and prevent them from becoming brittle. It can also help your hair and nails grow longer and faster.
- Your gut health. Some health practitioners claim that collagen supplements can treat leaky gut syndrome which is a condition that affects the lining of the intestines.
- Your Brain health, some people claim that collagen can improve your mood and reduce anxiety symptoms.
- Weight loss. Some individuals believe that collagen supplements may promote weight loss and faster metabolism.
Risks and side effects
There are very few risks and side effects associated with taking collagen supplements. It can all depend on the type of collagen supplement you are taking. Some supplements are made from common allergens like fish, shellfish or eggs which should be avoided by people with allergies to those ingredients.
Few people have reported suffering nausea or bloating, heartburn or feelings of fullness but these side effects could be due to a variety of other factors and not only the collagen supplements.
Something crucial to keep in mind is that although some studies have shown that collagen supplements can be highly effective, a lot more research is needed to ensure that these claims are 100% true. However, in knowing and understanding the vast amount of benefits provided from this wonder protein, many health experts highly recommend including a collagen supplement in your daily diet to assist in your overall health and wellness.
You can find high-quality and effective collagen supplements at Hashtag Health and please feel free to ask us any questions you may have about collagen.