Everyone seems to be talking about or taking collagen, which is understandable because collagen is essential to our skin, nails, hair, and joints.
But the real question is, will taking collagen supplements improve your looks?
What Are Collagen Peptides?
Collagen is a major structural protein found in the human body. It holds things together and forms structures like muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, cartilage, skin, hair, and nails. Collagen peptides are hydrolyzed collagen, meaning they are collagen broken down into small pieces, making them easier to dissolve.
The collagen peptides we can get at the store are taken from animal hides and other connective tissues. These animals are usually cows but can also come from other sources.
Why We Get Wrinkles As We Age?
Our body produces less collagen as we age, which is why we get wrinkles, thinning hair, brittle nails, and stiff joints. So, it seems logical to replace this lost collagen by taking more, right?
Maybe, and many people seem to think it’s worth a shot. However, the research to back this product is minimal.
When we consume collagen from food or supplements, it is broken down into smaller proteins and amino acids. The body then uses these amino acids and peptides (smaller amino acids) as building blocks to create new proteins as needed.
As I said before, we lose collagen as we age. It’s not because we don’t have enough building blocks to make more; it’s because our aging DNA doesn’t build new proteins as fast as it used to.
Imagine a factory full of older workers who can’t build things as quickly as they did when they were younger. Bringing more and more raw materials into the factory won’t make the elderly workers move faster. Likewise, loading the body with extra collagen doesn’t necessarily translate into younger-looking skin or better joint health.
So what’s the takeaway here?
Every once in a while, something like this has a revolutionary impact. But the truth is, most of these products come and go without improving your health.
- If you’re taking collagen for muscle growth, you’re choosing the worst protein available
- If you’re taking it for joint health, the current evidence suggests it doesn’t work.
My suggestion? Try it out and see if you notice a difference. If you notice a difference, continue taking it. If you don’t notice anything, don’t rebuy it. It’s up to you to decide whether or not collagen is worth investing in. Ultimately, a healthy diet and lifestyle will get you farther in the aging department than any collagen supplement.
