Are Collagen Supplements Worth The Hype?

The internet has been obsessing over collagen lately. From Instagram to TikTok, you can see people talking about it all over the web. So, what is collagen? It is the major component of connective tissues that make up several of our body parts. It is mainly a body protein. 

You must be wondering if collagen supplements are really worth the hype? We are here to answer that question for you. The truth is these supplements do have a variety of health benefits. Below are all of the benefits of collagen, which have been backed by science. 

Beneficial for skin health

One of the reasons why collagen has gained such popularity lately is because of the benefits it offers to your skin. It is scientifically proven that collagen plays a major role in strengthening your skin and also keeps it hydrated.

The older you get, the less collagen your body produces. Thus, taking collagen supplements allow you to make the rest of the collagen content. Consequently, these supplements also help in reducing fine lines and wrinkles and prevent your skin from losing elasticity.

Relieves joint pain

Cartilage is the tissue that protects your joints, and collagen helps in maintaining this tissue all through your years. However, as collagen starts getting reduced as age increases, the chances of developing degenerative disorders increase too. 

Studies have shown that consuming collagen supplements as you get older can improve the symptoms of osteoarthritis. According to researchers, collagen supplements end up accumulating in the cartilage, which stimulates the tissue to make more collagen.

Boosts muscle mass

Since 1-10% of muscle tissue is composed of collagen, it has the ability to boost muscle mass. Moreover, studies also have shown that people with sarcopenia have witnessed a boost in muscle mass due to collagen.

This is because taking collagen can promote the synthesis of creatine and other muscle proteins. Moreover, it also stimulates muscle growth after exercise. The research on the topic is less; thus, there are more benefits to come.

Improves heart health

The intake of collagen supplements can reduce the risk of any heart-related conditions. Collagen has a major role in providing structure to your arteries. Consequently, even a slight loss of collagen would weaken the arteries. This may lead to a disease called atherosclerosis.

Thus, by taking collagen, you can strengthen the structure of your arteries. Along with that, it also reduces rigidity or stiffness in the arteries.

Other health benefits 

Aside from the benefits mentioned above, there are several other benefits of collagen that are still to be studied extensively. These are:

• It may be that collagen supplements can help you strengthen your nails as well as your hair. It can even help in their growth.
• Some practitioners have claimed that collagen supplements also promote gut health. However, there is still a need for extensive research on the topic.
• Some people have claimed that collagen supplements have helped with their anxiety and overall mood. However, there is no evidence of any such effects yet.
• Some people also believe that collagen supplements have the ability to promote a faster metabolism and lead to weight loss.