Collagen

The human body is mainly made of proteins and fats, with some structures made of complex carbohydrates. Proteins are commonly referred to as the building blocks of the body. Most body structures need proteins.

Proteins, on the other hand, are made of amino acids. All proteins in the human body are made of 20-22 amino acids. These amino acids are like alphabets to language as amino acids create thousands of proteins in the human body by combining them in various combinations. So, there are thousands of large and small protein molecules in the human body, but all are made of just 20-22 amino acids.

Out of these, eight are essential amino acids that the human body cannot produce on its own. The remaining amino acids are also crucial for maintaining good health, although the body can synthesise them in limited quantities. These are known as non-essential or conditionally essential amino acids.

What About Collagen?

Collagen is a type of protein. It is the most abundant protein in the human body. This protein is especially abundant in connective tissues. Thus, skin, ligaments, tendons, bones, skeletal muscles, and certain organ structures contain significant amounts of Collagen protein. Hence, its higher intake is associated with specific health benefits.¹

Collagen Health Benefits

Some of the health benefits of higher Collagen intake or supplementation include:

Skin, Hair & Nail Health

The skin is the largest organ in the human body, and it is mainly made of connective tissues. It contains a significant amount of Collagen. This means that higher Collagen intake is associated with slower skin aging, better elasticity, and also faster wound healing. Collagen is also good for hair growth and nail health.¹

Joint Health

Collagen protein is needed for the production of most joint structures like joint cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. It also means that higher Collagen intake may promote joint repair. Further, it is vital to understand that proteins are also signalling molecules. This means that Collagen can lower inflammation and improve mobility. Collagen supplementation is especially good for managing osteoarthritis, the most common joint disorder of larger joints.²
Bone Health

Human bones are not inert structures as many imagine. They are continually being modified. Moreover, they also produce red and white blood cells. Thus, they need calcium, Vitamin D, and a significant amount of Collagen proteins to stay healthy. Studies show that higher Collagen intake is associated with better bone mineralisation. Thus, clinical studies show that Collagen supplements are good for postmenopausal women who are prone to osteoporosis.³
Muscle Mass

In recent years, there has been increasing interest in Collagen among sports people. Traditionally, athletes have preferred whey protein. However, now, science has concluded that Collagen has a better amino acid profile that promotes muscle mass. Moreover, Collagen also helps strengthen muscle fibres, ligaments, and tendons. Higher Collagen intake may also reduce the risk of sports injuries.⁴

Gut Health

Collagen, unlike other proteins, is incredibly good for gut health. It may boost gut health in many ways. It has an excellent amino acid profile and thus promotes gut healing. It is also good for promoting bowel movements and digestion and has anti-inflammatory effects. Interestingly, Collagen also acts as a probiotic, hence having a beneficial impact on gut microbiota.⁵

Heart Health

Higher Collagen intake is associated with better metabolic parameters. Collagen enhances satiety and promotes weight loss. It is known to reduce inflammation and positively impact lipid profile. Hence, Collagen may also reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, which means a lower risk of heart attack and stroke.⁶

Side Effects of Collagen

As a rule, Collagen does not have any side effects, as it is one of the vital nutrients human require. However, it may cause gastrointestinal issues in practice, as some Collagen sources are challenging to digest. Additionally, in rare instances, larger protein molecules like Collagen might cause allergic reactions.

Properties

Anti-Inflammatory²
Arthritis²
Atherosclerosis⁶
Bone Strengthening³
Digestive Function⁵
Hair Growth and Support¹
Heart Support / Health⁶
Joint Health²
Menopause³
Muscle Mass⁴
Osteoporosis³
Probiotic⁵
Skin Issues¹

References