In recent years, collagen has exploded in the wellness world, appearing in products for health, anti-aging and skin-care across the market. But despite the buzz, collagen isn’t actually new at all. Its benefits have been known for centuries around the world. So what is it actually good for? We consulted our experts to find out.
But first, what’s collagen?
If you’re not familiar with collagen, here’s a quick refresher: it’s the most abundant protein in your body, where’s it’s used to build the connective tissue that holds everything in your body together. It’s a major component of your bones, skin, muscles, tendons and cartilage, making them strong and resilient. Despite its abundance, it’s possible your body isn’t making enough: Some lifestyle habits, environmental aggressors and your natural aging process can make your body produce less.
Now, the benefits.
1. For youthful skin
Collagen gives skin its elasticity and plump appearance. Since collagen production slows with age, it’s natural for your skin to lose elasticity and to gain some wrinkles and fine lines. Taking collagen can help restore your skin’s firmness, increase moisture and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.1 Not all collagen is the same, though. Topical collagen treatments don’t work as well as edible alternatives, because collagen molecules are too big for your skin to absorb. So for best results, make sure to take supplements or powders .
2. For thick, luscious hair
The amino acids in collagen are used to build keratin, the protein that builds and strengthens your hair, while its antioxidant properties fight free radicals that damage hair follicles and lead to premature graying and thinning.2 This is why taking collagen can help promote a healthy scalp, support thick hair and retain your natural color.
3. For easy movement
Stiff joints are another part of the natural aging process. Collagen is a major component of cartilage, a natural tissue that helps smooth joint movement and cushion the impact of your day-to-day activity. As your collagen production drops, your cartilage starts to wear, causing stiffness and pain after exercise. Supplementing with collagen can help to counter this effect, stimulating cartilage production to reduce joint pain while easing flexibility.3 4
4. For a healthy gut
Collagen is a building block for connective tissue, which is a big part of your colon and GI tract. The amino acids in collagen play a vital role in rebuilding and strengthening the lining of your gut, fostering a healthy inflammatory response and helping to keep bacteria and harmful toxins out of your body.5
Collagen is also an easily digestible and well-tolerated source of protein. Most collagen powders are hydrolyzed, meaning they’re already broken down so they’re easy on the gut. Although collagen it’s not a complete protein—it doesn’t include all the essential amino acids your body needs—it is a comfortable way to increase your protein intake.
5. For better Zzz’s
Collagen has also been connected to better sleep and mood. This is because it contains glycine, a non-essential amino acid that’s believed to reduce muscle activity during REM sleep. Glycine also helps increase your body’s serotonin, a natural compound that’s key to a healthy sleep-wake cycle.6 So if you’re looking to improve your rest, taking collagen in the evening may help support restful sleep.
Need help with supplements?
When it comes to supplements, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. If you’re not sure where to start, take Persona’s free nutrition assessment and learn exactly what you need to take your wellness to the next level.
About Gabby
Gabby is a nutritionist with a master’s degree in strategic communications. She loves using her nutrition-fluency with storytelling to encourage positive change. Before Persona, she worked at a mental health clinic helping clients manage stress, anxiety and other mental health issues through diet.
Gabby is just one of Persona’s team of qualified nutritionists. Do you have questions about nutrition? Reach out. Our experts would love to help.
This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. Do not use the information from this article for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this article.
