Everyone seems to be talking about collagen peptides lately, which is understandable because collagen is an essential component of our skin, nails, and hair.
But the real question is, will taking collagen supplements improve your looks?
What Are Collagen Peptides?
Collagen is a structural protein found in humans and animals. It is responsible for forming connective tissue, and therefore, holding things together within the body. 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 come from other sources as well.
Collagen is one of the major structural proteins in the body, found in bones, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and skin. Hair and nails, which are dead skin tissue, also contain collagen. As we age, our body produces less collagen, which is why we get wrinkles, 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. But the research to back this product is minimal.
When we take in collagen from food or supplements, this large protein is broken down and disassembled into smaller proteins and amino acids. The body then uses these amino acids and peptides as building blocks to build new proteins as needed.
Like I said before, as we age, we tend to have less collagen in our skin and joints. It’s not because we don’t have enough building blocks to make more. It’s that 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 isn’t going to make the elderly workers move faster. Likewise, loading up the body with extra collagen doesn’t necessarily translate into younger-looking skin or less stiff joints.
Bottom Line
Every once in a while, something like this comes along and has a revolutionary impact. But the truth is, most of these products come and go without making any improvements on your health.
My suggestion? Try it out and see if you notice a difference. It’s really up to you to decide whether or not collagen peptides are worth investing in. In the end, a healthy diet and lifestyle will get you farther in the aging department than any collagen supplement ever will.
