Collagen supplements are a popular way to boost your collagen levels. They come in powder, pills or liquid form and can be used in various ways.
They may help improve bone health, reduce osteoarthritis symptoms and promote healthy skin, hair and nail growth. More investigation is necessary to back up these claims.
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What is Collagen?
Collagen is a protein that’s found throughout the body. It’s especially abundant in skin, bones, ligaments and tendons.
It helps the skin retain elasticity and is thought to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite. It also helps strengthen and protect joints, reducing pain and stiffness.
The synthesis of collagen is a multistep process that involves adding hydroxyl groups to the amino acids proline and glycine. The hydroxylation reactions require vitamin C as a cofactor.
This helps create a triple helix structure that gives collagen its strength and tensile strength. However, the collagen synthesis process can be impaired if you need more vitamin C.
How Do Collagen Peptides Work?
Collagen peptides are broken-down forms of collagen that are easier for the body to absorb. That means you can take a collagen peptide supplement and get all of the benefits of collagen.
These peptides are absorbed through the digestive tract, traveling throughout the body to support collagen production. They also help improve skin hydration, make it firmer, and reduce wrinkles and dryness. These peptide medications have all been used therapeutically in various fields, including urology, respiratory, pain, oncology, metabolic, cardiovascular, and antimicrobial applications. Some clinics like Evolve Wellness & Health offer peptides depending on your needs.
There are many different sources of collagen, including bovine, pork, poultry, and marine. These supplements are generally derived from a type of collagen called Type I, which is plentiful in beef and bovine collagen.
What Types of Collagen Are There?
Collagen is a protein that’s found throughout the body. It’s a critical component of the body’s connective tissues, including cartilage, bones, tendons, ligaments and skin.
It’s also an essential part of your diet. If you’re not getting enough collagen in your diet, you may notice signs and symptoms of aging, such as joint pain, fine lines and wrinkles.
Your body absorbs amino acids, the building blocks of protein chains, and assembles them into a triple helix to produce collagen. Proline and glycine are the two primary amino acids used to create this helix.
Are Collagen Supplements Safe?
A crucial protein, collagen supports skin, bones, joints, and muscles. It makes sense that so many people are looking for collagen supplements to help them improve their health because it helps maintain healthy tissues and structures.
While a supplement isn’t a replacement for a nutritious diet, it can support your body’s natural collagen production. It can also make your skin more elastic and strengthen your tendons, ligaments and bones.
But, as with any dietary supplement, you must be cautious when choosing which one to take. Be sure to select a brand tested and proven safe by a credible organization.
Side Effects of Collagen Supplements
Collagen supplements can come in various forms, including powder, pills, and liquids. They’re safe to take if you choose a quality product that has been third-party tested.
Some people report bloating and stomach discomfort when they take collagen, but this isn’t a common side effect. It’s usually temporary and passes as your body gets used to the amino acids found in collagen peptides.
Another possible side effect is high calcium levels, which can cause constipation, fatigue and bone pain. If you have any issues with your calcium, speak to your doctor before taking a collagen supplement.
