During the past years, collagen supplements have gained popularity carrying its promise of improving skin health and promoting healthy hair. As such, collagen supplements have been widely marketed in different forms such as powders, capsules, and drinks. However, many are still wondering if collagen supplements really aid in keeping and maintaining a glowing skin and healthy hair.
What is Collagen?
What are collagen supplements?
Does collagen help for skin and hair?
What are the possible risks and side effects?
What is Collagen?
Collagen, which plays a vital role in maintaining the strength, elasticity, and structure of tissues, is the most abundant protein in the human body. Collagen is found in your skin, bones, muscles, and even your hair and nails. It is responsible for holding your body together and keeping it looking firm and youthful. However, natural collagen production slows down as we age resulting to wrinkles, sagging skin, and thinning hair. This is the reason why many people turn to collagen supplements.
What are collagen supplements?
Collagen supplements are products that provide collagen for those who are in need of maintaining the structure and elasticity of the skin, providing strength and flexibility to joints and muscles, and keeping hair strong and healthy. These collagen supplements are made from animal sources like cow or fish collagen, which are typically available in powder, capsule, or liquid form.
Does collagen help for skin and hair?
Collagen is often associated with supporting both skin elasticity and hair health. Collagen supplements for skin addresses several skin issues brought about by ageing and decrease in collagen production, such as wrinkles, sagging skin, and less skin elasticity.
Meanwhile, hair collagen contains amino acids like proline, which is a key component of keratin. According to experts, collagen benefits for hair include stronger hair, reduced hair thinning, and healthier hair. Collagen also supports the scalp by improving blood circulation and overall hair health.
What are the possible risks and side effects?
Generally, collagen supplements are considered safe for most people, but like with any supplement, there can be some potential risks and side effects. Here are a few things to consider when taking collagen supplements:
- Some might experience digestive discomfort such as bloating, or gas when taking collagen supplements.
- Most collage supplements are derived from animal sources like cow, chicken, or fish. If you have allergies to these sources, you could potentially develop an allergic reaction.
- Some collagen powders have an unpleasant taste, especially those derived from fish. This can be minimized by mixing the powder into smoothies or other flavored beverages.
- Marine collagen supplements may have trace amounts of heavy metals such as mercury. Hence, it’s important to buy high-quality, reputable products to minimize this risk.
- Collagen supplements have no major drug interactions known, but since collagen can have an effect on tissue regeneration, people taking medications for certain conditions should consult a healthcare professional beforehand.
- Most collagen supplements contain added vitamin C, which is important for collagen synthesis, but excessive vitamin C could potentially increase the risk of kidney stones in some people.
It must be remembered that collagen supplement is not for everyone. People with specific health conditions like renal disease or autoimmune issues may want to avoid collagen supplements. If it’s your first time taking collagen supplements, start with a small dose to see how your body reacts and gradually increase it.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does collagen do for hair and skin?
For the skin, collagen helps maintain skin elasticity, firmness, and hydration. Taking collagen supplements may improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and promote skin hydration and firmness. Collagen supplements for hair provide amino acids that are important for the production of keratin. Also, collagen may help strengthen hair, support healthy hair growth, and keep the scalp healthy.
2. Are there any benefits to collagen supplements?
Yes, collagen supplements may offer several potential benefits such as improved skin health, stronger hair and nails, reduce joint pain or stiffness, improve bone density, and support gut health.
3. What happens to your body when you start taking collagen?
When you start taking collagen, your body may experience increased collagen levels which could result to improve skin elasticity, hydration, and firmness. You may also notice smoother, more youthful-looking skin. Also, you might have stronger nails and healthier hair due to increased keratin production. Finally, collagen may also help strengthen the lining of the gut and promote better digestion.
References:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/collagen-benefits
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325344
https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/should-i-take-a-collagen-supplement.h00-159462423.html