collagen tablets benefit
Collagen is the protein that gives structure and elasticity to your skin, hair, bones, cartilage and joints. The body makes collagen, but it naturally decreases with age. Collagen supplements are increasingly popular, and some manufacturers claim that these pills and powders can help people look younger and reduce joint pain. While more research is needed, a few studies have shown some positive results.
Many products on the market are marketed as “collagen supplements,” but they can contain different forms of the protein, amino acids, peptides and other nutrients. In general, these supplements aren’t regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the same way that medications are. As a result, there’s little consistency in ingredients and production processes among supplement makers. Some products are designed to be taken orally, in the form of pills or powders that can be added to a drink or meal. Others are designed to be applied topically to the skin.
Some types of collagen tablets are found in cartilage, a rubbery material that protects and covers the ends of bones in joints. It’s also a component of muscles, tendons and ligaments. Typically, the kind of collagen that’s found in these tissues is rich in glycine and proline, which are amino acids that can be broken down into other proteins that help make up your skin, hair, nails and connective tissue.
How do collagen tablets benefit the skin?
The glycine and proline in collagen can be found in meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy and vegetables, as well as fruits like blueberries, blackberries and oranges. The vitamin C in these foods helps your body produce collagen. You can boost your intake of these compounds by eating more foods that are high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits and juices, peppers, leafy greens, tomatoes and berries.
Your body uses the collagen it makes to strengthen your muscles, bones and tendons, as well as to make sure your skin stays flexible and supple. But some people also take it as a supplement to enhance or soften their skin, and some people with arthritis report that taking collagen can ease their joint pain.
If you’re considering incorporating a collagen powder or supplement into your diet, consult with your dermatologist. They may not recommend this dietary change, as more research is needed to confirm that these supplements can actually improve the health of your skin or reduce wrinkles.
While taking collagen may provide a few benefits, leading a healthy lifestyle can do just as much or more. A nutrient-rich diet, healthy habits such as avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and proper use of topical treatments like retinol can delay the natural decline of collagen that occurs with aging. These strategies can also help maintain skin elasticity and hydration and promote other protein production in the skin, such as elastin. Speak to your Ohio State University dermatologist about how these tactics can help you achieve healthy, beautiful skin. Then, enjoy your appearance knowing you’re doing the best for your skin.