Why Collagen is Important and Why You Should Take It

Collagen is definitely a trendy supplement right now - but this is one trend that you might want to consider trying. You may have already noticed collagen as an ingredient in skin creams, but it is also a supplement that can be used internally, as in a smoothie recipe, or even as a liquid dollop in your coffee.

Why is collagen popular, and what is the importance of collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in your body, and your body is built to create it. We all break dietary protein down into amino acids, some of which are then repurposed into collagen.

Collagen is vital for our bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments, and it acts like glue for joints. It’s our skin’s strongest ally, working in tandem with elastin to create resilience and elasticity.

However, starting in our mid-to-late 20s, we start to lose 1% of our collagen every year. It decreases even more in women after menopause. Collagen also decreases with other factors such as smoking, sugar and ultraviolet rays.

What can be done to increase collagen?

Aside from avoiding sugar and UV rays, supplementing with collagen peptides may be helpful. Although collagen is a protein, getting what we need isn't as easy as eating more protein-rich foods in our diet.

Collagen isn’t a simple protein. It is composed of three cross-linked polypeptide chains made primarily of glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. All of these are amino acids, and one (hydroxyproline) isn’t found in any other proteins.

It’s difficult for your body to break these chains down so the collagen can be absorbed in a useful way. So while eating collagen-rich foods like chicken, fish and eggs is certainly beneficial, it may not be enough to counteract our natural loss of collagen

This is where a collagen peptides supplement, also called a hydrolyzed collagen supplement, comes into play. “Hydrolyzed” means the collagen’s amino acid chains have been broken down into smaller parts. These small, soluble collagen peptides are more easily digested.

Collagen and peptides are commonly found as capsules, liquid formulas and collagen peptide powder that you can mix into drinks or stir into food.

You can also find collagen peptides in skin creams for topical application. As we age, and especially in our 40s, the depletion of collagen acting as scaffolding in our skin leads to visible signs like sagging or crepe-like skin around the face, arms and neck. Results usually can be seen within 6 months of slathering on collagen cream, especially when combined with other skin-friendly supplements and topicals.

Collagen isn't just for skin - bones and joints need it, too. Studies show collagen supplements may improve bone mineral density. This study even showed that it may be beneficial in ankle injuries in athletes. Collagen is also a main component of cartilage, the rubbery tissue that protects your joints. So it’s no surprise that researchers have seen joint pain improve with collagen supplements, particularly in cases of osteoarthritis.

When you consider collagen importance in supporting our joints, bones and skin, it’s clear why this multitasking protein is becoming more and more popular.

Before taking collagen, remember to always consult with a health care professional to make sure it is right for you.

Photo from here, with thanks.

One 2017 study of athletes with activity-related knee discomfort found supplementing with specific collagen peptides was associated with less joint pain during activity. Vitamin C matters here too, since it's a cofactor the body uses to build its own collagen, which is why you'll often see collagen with vitamin C in a single formula.

You'll see collagen peptides in a few forms at Village Green, and the shape matters less than the fact that it's hydrolyzed. Collagen peptides powder blends well in your coffee or smoothie, and capsules are convenient for hectic mornings. If you like the idea of collagen with vitamin C and biotin together, formulas that pair them may help support your body's own collagen production.

The Real Benefits of Collagen

Collagen benefits reach past skin. It's a main component of cartilage, the rubbery tissue that cushions your joints, and it works alongside elastin to keep skin resilient. Research has looked at collagen peptides for joint comfort and for supporting bone mineral density.

Choosing a Collagen Dietary Supplement

A collagen dietary supplement comes in a few forms, so the right pick depends on how you like to take it. Hydrolyzed collagen (also called collagen peptides) is recommended because the vital proteins in collagen peptides have already had their chains broken apart, making them easier to digest. Collagen supplements may also contain vitamin C, which is linked to the body's own collagen production. We can walk you through the options at Village Green.

Collagen From Food and Bone Broth

Bone broth and collagen are often found together because simmering bones for hours extracts gelatin, which is cooked collagen, from them. That’s one reason bone broth with collagen has become a household name. Bone broth offers you an easy, whole-food collagen peptides source to consume collagen in addition to a supplement. And many people do both.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do people take collagen?

The most common reason people use collagen supplements is because our bodies produce less as we age. We start losing about 1 percent of our collagen each year by our mid- to late 20s. And that impacts not only our skin, but our joint and bone health, too. Collagen peptide supplements may help support the body's natural collagen as those levels dip. At Village Green Apothecary, we can help you find a form tailored to your needs.

Why use collagen?

Folks use collagen to support the tissues it builds: skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and the cartilage cushioning your joints. Because collagen is hard for the body to break down whole, hydrolyzed collagen peptides are pre-broken into smaller, more easily digested pieces. Studies have looked at collagen peptides for joint discomfort and bone mineral density. Always check with your health care professional to see if it's right for you.

Why eat collagen?

The good news? Eating foods rich in collagen, such as chicken, fish, eggs, and bone broth, really does help. The bad news? Collagen isn’t just any old protein, which means your diet alone might not replace what you lose. For this reason, many people combine a collagen-supportive diet with supplements made of peptides that are easier for the body to absorb.

Why We Naturally Lose Collagen With Age?

The 1% annual decrease begins in areas with thin skin like those surrounding the eyes, mouth and neck. People sometimes ask us about collagen capsules benefits versus a powder. Whatever form works for you is the right choice. What really makes the difference is your taking it consistently for months on end.

Why do we need collagen?

Here's the quiet part. Starting in our mid-to-late 20s, we lose roughly 1% of our collagen each year, and that drop steepens for women after menopause. Smoking, sugar, and ultraviolet rays speed it along. Understanding why we need collagen makes the case for supporting it as we age.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.