Introduction:
Collagen supplements are becoming a one-stop solution for all beauty problems. These supplements help you to achieve youthful and younger-looking skin and strengthen your hair and nails.
But the question is, are these supplements helpful in the long run, or are there any side effects you will experience?
In this article, we will gain in-depth knowledge about these supplements, and then you will decide whether these supplements are worth it or not.
What is Collagen?
It is a protein that helps to make a large portion of our body’s connective tissues.
This protein is essential in providing strength and structure to many body parts, such as skin, bones, ligaments, bones, and cartilage.
This protein is present in our body in a tremendous amount, around 30% of our total protein content.
How Collagen Relates to Beauty?
Collagen protein is vital in maintaining skin elasticity and firmness.
As we age, Our body’s capacity to produce natural collagen decreases; low levels of this protein lead to wrinkles, sagging skin, and fine lines.
This is the primary reason everyone picks these supplements whenever they want to start the anti-ageing process.
Healthy levels of this protein in our body positively influence our nails and hair. When the level of this protein is low, it will lead to bad nails and hair thinning, Which are more prone to damage.
Collagen Supplements: Do They Work?
These supplements give the same results or are suitable for everyone is a debatable topic, but the central thinking of people to pick these supplements to improve their appearance is reasonable.
Some studies prove that these supplements can improve the quality of our skin, nails and hair.
For example, A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology in 2015 demonstrates that women who consume collagen peptides for eight weeks notice a massive difference in skin hydration and elasticity.
A study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology found that oral collagen supplements can reduce wrinkles and boost collagen density in the skin.
Substantial evidence is still required to prove that these supplements have no side effects and are best for our skin, hair and nails.
Moreover, supplement results might be different for every individual; more factors can directly impact your skin, such as your diet, genetics, environment, medical condition etc.
Collagen Supplements: Types and Sources:
Various forms of collagen supplements include powders, capsules and beverages.
The most popular sources of this protein are present in the form of supplements such as bovine(from cows), porcine(from pigs), marine(from fish) and poultry (from chicken)
Some of these supplements are also known as collagen peptides or hydrolyzed; these two forms are easy to break down into smaller fragments that are best for your body to absorb.
You have to choose these supplements according to your body and dietary allergies. For example, seafood allergy patients should choose bovine and procure collagen supplements.
Safety and Potential Side Effects:
Most of the time, these supplements are safe for everyone, as mentioned. Moreover, there is little chance that some individuals may suffer from side effects like digestion issues.
You must consult a healthcare professional before adding a new supplement to your diet, especially if you have a terrible medical history or are pregnant.
Food Sources:
A healthy diet is the best way to complete the daily dose of this protein; If you can’t complete your daily intake of collagen, then you can pick the supplements.
Foods rich in collagen are bone broth, chicken skin, fish, and collagen-rich meat cuts containing natural collagen.
Moreover, foods high in vitamins C, e, zinc and copper can boost this protein production in the body.
Conclusion:
At last, I only want to say that if you wish, you can take these supplements, but before that, you should consider the following points:
- Don’t overdose on the supplements.
- Always prioritize food over supplements.
- Consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement.
- Take the supplements only in the short run; you should consume them for a month or two and then stop using them for at least 2 -3 weeks. Don’t make yourself habitual of it.
