02 Jun Collagen: Fad or Fact?

The anti-aging claims of collagen have introduced new products in the market. These claims target women with its beauty promises, such as reducing stretch marks and visible cellulite.

Collagen supports functions in the skin, bones, ligaments, hair, internal organs, and muscles, among others. It is a type of protein that promotes the skin’s elasticity and healthy joints. It is also the most abundant protein in the human body, with collagen accounting for 30% of the body’s protein.

The beauty market launched its supplement products, which range from pills to beauty drinks. But before adding one to your cart, make sure to check if it is the right supplement for you.

There are also health risks in taking collagen supplements as most of the studies supporting its health claims were done by those in the supplement industry, which could create bias. In addition, the purity of their ingredients is not ensured nor standardized.

Research on Collagen

A 2021 study published in the International Journal of Dermatology found that those who consumed collagen supplements noticed changes in the skin’s suppleness, firmness, and moisture content.

The study noted that participants also observed less noticeable wrinkles. However, it was unclear whether the skin improvements can be attributed to collagen as most trials used commercially available supplements.

Commercially available collagen supplements contain other ingredients other than collagen. Ingredients include vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, coenzyme Q10, hyaluronic acid, and chondroitin sulfate, among others.

Meanwhile, there is hardly any evidence of claims about the hair and nail health benefits of collagen.

SOURCE: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/collagen#food-sources