The Benefits Of Collagen

Overview

Collagen is a crucial compound for our cells and organs. It is found across all the animal kingdom.

Collagen is an integral part of:

The integumentary system (e.g., skin, hair, nails)

Connective tissues (e.g., bones, blood vessels, ligaments, tendons)

Muscles

Besides its role as a structural supporter, collagen provides the body with the necessary amino acids it needs to synthesize various proteins. 

In this article, we will briefly discuss the different types of collagen, then switch gears to covering the health benefits of taking collagen supplements.

The benefits of collagen 

Note that collagen is not exclusively obtained from animal sources, as vegan collagen is also available.

Improves osteoarthritis symptoms

Osteoarthritis is a complex disease characterized by the friction of two neighbor bones due to the loss of the synovial fluid (i.e., a liquid found inside joint capsules).

Researchers found that collagen promotes the mineralization of bones, which improves the symptoms of arthritis.

Slows down the process of aging 

Including collagen in your diet can significantly decrease the visible signs of aging by augmenting the presence of collagen and elastin in the extracellular matrix of the skin.

Moreover, collagen neutralizes reactive oxygen species (i.e., free radicals). As a result, you are less likely to develop skin conditions triggered by inflammation and oxidative stress.

We should note that oxidative stress is the hallmark of most age-related skin diseases.

May prevent bone loss

Several studies demonstrated the positive effects of collagen on bone mineral density. Consuming your daily requirement of collagen will boost the activity of osteoblasts – cells that promote the deposition of calcium and phosphate in the bones.

In a 2015 study, scientists concluded that rats who receive collagen and calcium had a significantly slower rate of bone resorption (i.e., bone loss).

Helps balance blood sugar levels

Over the past few years, researchers found some evidence that supports the positive effects of glycine on glycemia (i.e., blood sugar level).

One study found that a high concentration of glycine in the blood prevents insulin spikes, which significantly lowers the risk of diabetes.

Note that collagen is extremely rich in the amino acid glycine.

Clearly, collagen supplementation does not mean you can abandon conventional pharmacological drugs; however, it is still an effective way to help patients with diabetes and prediabetes.

Boosts performance 

Collagen is responsible for promoting numerous biochemical reactions that boost energy production and muscle growth.

Most notably, taking collagen supplements after exercising will help in the process of muscle repair.

According to one study, the post-exertional consumption of collagen boosts the production of growth hormones and tissue repair mediators.

Takeaway 

Now that you know all the benefits offered by collagen supplements, it is time to take action by increasing your own supply of this amazing substance.

The good news is that you are in the right place! With a couple of clicks, you will have the best collagen supplement on the market delivered straight to your home.