Drinking collagen peptides has become a popular trend in the wellness community in recent years — but does it actually work?

Here at Althiology, we think science speaks for itself.

From revitalizing skin and hair to strengthening muscles and tissues, it seems like there’s nothing this powder can’t do. Let’s break down collagen and its supplement form and learn how it can improve your health.

Understanding Collagen

Collagen is a protein with fiber-like structures that makes up a third of the protein in the human body. From skin and bones to muscles and tendons, collagen is the glue that holds the body together, providing strength and elasticity day in and day out.

But as the human body ages, collagen production slows, causing structural integrity to decline. To keep connective tissues healthy, strong, and limber, a supplement like collagen peptides can help.

What are Collagen Peptides?

Collagen peptides are supplements that help the body replenish lost collagen. And because they’re hydrolyzed, i.e., broken down into small pieces for fast absorption, collagen peptides are an easy way to get the recommended daily dose of collagen.

Moreover, these supplements contain amino acids, the building blocks of protein, and other nutrients that promote skin, hair, and bone health such as zinc, biotin, and vitamin C.

Add to a cup of coffee or blend into a smoothie, collagen can be enjoyed in several ways. Here are three science-backed health benefits of collagen peptides:

1. Promotes Skin Elasticity

While collagen promotes skin elasticity, strength, and hydration, aging and lifestyle factors — such as sunbathing, smoking, drinking alcohol, and lack of sleep — can interfere with collagen production.

When this happens, the skin’s tightly-knit fibers unravel, reducing thickness, strength, and causing wrinkles to appear.

This is where collagen peptides can help. Research shows that taking three to 10 grams of collagen daily for an average of 69 days reduces signs of skin aging and restores elasticity. Additionally, this supplement may work by stimulating the body’s natural production of collagen, as well as promoting the production of other proteins that help the skin.

2. Supports Joint Health

As natural collagen production decreases, the likelihood of developing joint issues like osteoarthritis, i.e., worn down tissues at the end of bones, increases. However, collagen peptides may be able to combat this; research shows that those with osteoarthritis improved their joint pain and stiffness after taking 10 grams of collagen a day for 24 weeks.

This is likely because collagen as a supplement may help stimulate collagen production in tissues and cartilage, thus reducing pain and lowering inflammation.

3. Helps Build Muscle and Burn Fat

Because collagen makes up about 10% of tissues in muscles, collagen peptides may help those with sarcopenia, i.e., loss of muscle mass.

In a 12-week study, participants with sarcopenia took 12 grams of collagen a day and gained significant muscle mass compared to those in the study who didn’t take the supplement. It’s also suggested that collagen as a supplement may promote the fusion of muscle proteins like creatine and stimulate muscle growth after exercise.

Moreover, proponents of collagen peptides believe it may burn fat and promote weight loss by increasing metabolism, but more studies are needed to support this claim.

Ready To Take The Next Step?

Like every health regime, results from consuming collagen are not instantaneous. Collagen turnover takes time and patience, but with consistent use, the complexion of your dreams is a spoonful away.

Experience the anti-aging effects of collagen with Althiology’s 10g Collagen Peptides. Naturally sourced and scientifically crafted for quality, our grass-fed, pasture-raised collagen is the supplement you won’t find anywhere else.

Sources:

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-do-collagen-peptides-do/

https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/collagen/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30681787/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26353786/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30368550/