Have you ever wondered about the buzz surrounding collagen supplements and whether they truly benefit your health? Collagen is a vital protein that supports the structure of our skin, cartilage, and tendons, but as we age, our body's ability to produce it diminishes. Let's explore the role of collagen in our bodies, the concept behind collagen supplements, and whether it's necessary or even effective to add these supplements to your diet.
What is Collagen?
Collagen is a group of proteins that make up about one-third of the protein in your body and provide structure for tissues like cartilage, skin, and tendons. The body produces collagen from the amino acids that you take in through food. However, this ability starts to decline after age 20.
Collagen cannot be absorbed unless it’s broken down into smaller amino acids. Therefore, collagen supplements are not actually collagen, but rather components of collagen that are already broken down into an absorbable form.
Do You Need to Supplement Collagen?
Your body makes collagen and other proteins by combining various amino acids found in animal and plant-based proteins. Taking collagen for a specific issue like improving your skin, relieving joint pain, or maintaining muscle doesn’t work. Our body decides how it will use the amino acids in food or supplements we consume.
We can’t direct our bodies to send the collagen or protein to our joints or skin. However, increasing your protein intake will benefit your tissues like skin, hair, cartilage, tendons, and muscles.
The Bottom Line on Supplementing Your Diet with Collagen
The body needs amino acids to build the protein collagen, which is broken down and absorbed just like other proteins. Collagen supplements may provide these nutrients, but there is limited evidence that they are particularly effective in improving skin, hair, or overall health.
If you already consume sufficient protein, you could save money or rather use that money toward purchasing high-quality proteins and omega-3s such as fatty fish, seeds, and nuts. Obtaining nutrients through food will always be the most beneficial for your health.