Anti-aging serums and lip fillers are often the first things that come to mind when we think of collagen. However, not everyone will associate collagen with something that keeps the body healthier and stronger.
According to a Harvard study, collagen is the most abundant proteinfound in the human body. It is responsible for the production of connective tissues.
It is therefore important to choose the right types of collagen to boost your body’s health and performance.
If you’re interested in learning more about the roles of collagen within the body, including the best collagen types for skin and the most amazing collagen benefits for women, read the rest of this article.
What is Collagen?
Although it may seem insignificant, collagen plays an important role in the body. This small molecule is a fibrous, tough, and insoluble protein which fulfills many essential functions for various body parts.
- Skin
- Bone
- Blood vessels
- cartilage
- tendons
- Connective tissues
Healthy levels of collagen will ensure you get the following:
- better joint health
- improved skin elasticity
- stronger cardiovascular system
- Kidneys and other organs should be well protected
What are the Different Types of Collagen?
There are 16 types of collagen. However, most research focused on Type I and Type II.
Type I
This is the most prevalent type of collagen in the body, and it is perfect for the skin. It is found in the skin, bones, ligaments, tendons and muscles.
Collagen type I supplements are used to strengthen skin, nails, hair, and skin. It has also been shown to reduce the risk of osteoarthritis, scleroderma and other forms of arthritis.
Some reports suggest that Type I collagen is the fountain for youth because of its skin benefits.
When you turn 25, Type I collagen levels begin to decline. This can lead to fine lines, sagging skin and thin hair.
Type II
Collagen Type II, a natural protein found in the body, is found in bone, cartilage and other connective tissue.
Studies have shown that it may aid the body in producing chemicals to prevent swelling and pain. However, more research is needed to confirm this claim.
Supplements for Collagen Type II are made from chickens or cows. These supplements are frequently recommended to improve osteoarthritis and other forms of joint and muscle pain.
Type III
Type III collagen is found primarily in your muscles, intestines and blood vessels.
This type of collagen is often used in conjunction with Collagen Type I to improve the gut health and increase skin’s hydration.
Studies also claimed that Type III collagen was necessary for Type 1 collagen fibrillogenesis, and the development normal cardiovascular conditions.
To ensure that your body has a steady supply of this protein, you can take supplements of all types of collagen such as collagen-peptides.
7 Promising Benefits Of Collagen In The Body
The body will produce sufficient collagen to enjoy the following benefits:
1. Keep your skin healthy and glowing
Reduced collagen production can cause skin to sag, which could lead to premature signs of aging. This can also lead to dry skin that could cause skin irritation and skin damage.
The best way to address declining collagen production is to invest in collagen peptides such as XND’s Collagen+Greens. Recent research has shown that these supplements can reduce wrinkles and increase skin hydration.
2. Healthy Cartilage Supports Soft Joints
Collagen peptides may be used to increase collagen production in cartilage and connective tissue. It can reduce osteoarthritis risk in the joints.
A previous study found that collagen peptides can help with osteoarthritis and bone loss. It can also increase bone mineral density, relieve pain, and protect cartilage from injury.
3. Atherosclerosis Risk Reduction
Atherosclerosis is the accumulation of plaque on the inner walls of an artery. This condition is usually not symptomatic unless the plaque bursts. If this happens, you could be at greater risk for more serious conditions.
Collagen supplements can help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. Plaque buildup is less likely to burst if there’s more collagen in your body.
A recent study suggests that it may help to prevent the formation of plaque .
4. Promoting Gut Health
Recent research has shown a link between lower collagen levels and IBD sufferers.
Research shows that IBD patients suffer from an imbalance in the production and breakdown of collagen fibers, which can lead to inflammation. Supplementing with oral collagen may help improve your gut health.
5. Strengthens Nails
Another study found that collagen peptides may increase nail growth.
The research found that using bioactive collapsible peptides resulted in a 12% increase in nail growth. It also decreased the chance of breaking nails by 42%.
A study found that 64% of participants saw improvements in their brittle nails.
6. Maintains bone health
The bone density mineral decreases with age. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, this condition is more apparent after menopause.
A clinical trial with 102 women post-menopausal found that those who took collagen peptides for one year had a greater increase in bone mineral density than those who were part of the control group. This could be because collagen stimulates bone formation and slows down bone loss.
7. Increases muscle mass
Collagen supplements are a great way to increase your muscle mass.
A 2015 study found that older men who used collagen supplements and participated in a resistance training program three times a week for three years, had a higher level of fat-free mass and increased muscle strength. It also reduced their body fat.
Another study showed that younger men had more muscle mass after taking collagen supplements for 12 weeks and doing resistance training.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get collagen naturally?
Consuming collagen-rich foods can help you add collagen to your diet. Bone broth, chicken, fish, shellfish, egg whites and citrus fruits are some of the best examples.
How do you determine if your collagen level is low?
There is no way to determine your body’s collagen levels. However, you might notice a decrease in collagen production if you experience symptoms such as joint pain or stiffening of the ligaments.
When should you start taking collagen supplements?
Collagen supplements can be taken at any age. You can start using this supplement at any age, but you should avoid the signs of aging.
Start Building Your Collagen Supply Today
As you age, a decrease in collagen levels can lead to many problems. Don’t wait to feel the effects. To enjoy better health into your later years, you should look for reliable collagen supplements.
