Benefits of Collagen Supplements

Why Take Collagen Supplements?

There are many companies selling collagen supplements to be taken orally.

Do these really help in anti-aging?

Thank you.

It is well-known that the body's natural production of collagen declines with the years.

The results are also well-known: thinning skin; wrinkles; thinning hair and nails; joint pain and deterioration. Wouldn't it be nice if we could just pop a pill to replace the body's depleted collagen?

To date there is not much research evaluating the role of collagen supplements for anti-aging or disease prevention/control. For example, preliminary studies of collagen supplementation for treatment of osteoarthritis have yielded contradictory results.

There is, however, a growing body of anecdotal evidence in support of collagen supplementation, especially for arthritis and joint pain/deterioration regardless of cause.

The most common form of collagen is gelatin. You may be aware that gelatin has been in common use for decades to improve nail and hair health. Proponents also recommend it to slow the progression of Karposi's Sarcoma (skin cancer) and prostate cancer.

Finally there are claims for collagen supplementation that, thus far, have no research or anecdotal basis. At this point, all they are is claims. In this category, are its suggested use as a weight loss or bodybuilding aid.

If you have joint pain/deterioration or thin, brittle nails and hair, collagen may be worth a try. There are no known adverse side effects, so you can safely test it for yourself.

If you have food sensitivities, check the label to make sure what type of collagen you are buying. Bovine (cow) and chicken collagen are the most common used in supplements.

What is Collagen and How Does it Serve the Human Body?

Collagen is a structural protein that forms the prevalent connective tissue which holds our bodies together. It gives the skin, hair and nails thickness and strength. It is the major component of the body's connective tissues, from tendons to ligaments to muscles and cartilage.

As collagen is depleted, the skin thins and wrinkles. The connective tissues weaken and wear away, leaving the joints unprotected. The weaker connective tissues are more easily injured by sprain or tear. As they wear away, joint rubs against joint, causing pain, inflammation and bone erosion.

If not controlled, the damage leads to permanent crippling disability.

Type II collagen has the most research behind it. If you decide to try collagen supplementation, use a name you know you can trust, such as Twinlab.

This article is for information only. It does not purport to offer medical advice.