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Did you know that collagen makes up 30% of the protein in our bodies? It plays an important role in shaping and structuring various components of connective tissue and is a key building block of the skin, joints, bones, tendons, cartilage, gums, hair, and nails.
But what are the most important health benefits of taking collagen?
Thanks to its structure, collagen offers a range of health benefits. It has been scientifically proven to improve the condition and elasticity of the skin, joint health, hair and nails, to support the bones, stimulate digestive system function, and promote muscle growth and recovery after strength training.
Improves skin elasticity and appearance
Collagen makes up about 80% of our skin. Together with elastin – another type of protein, collagen gives our skin its strength and is vital for maintaining its elasticity. Present to a large extent in the middle layer of the skin, collagen brings it many benefits, keeping it firm, dense, and elastic. It's also essential for the skin's natural renewal process, removing old skin cells and building room for new ones to form. Collagen also helps maintain skin hydration, reducing the appearance of wrinkles over the years.
By taking collagen, you'll ensure healthy, radiant, and supple facial skin, while the delicate area around the eyes will look bright and revitalized.
Supports joint health
Collagen is an important component of joint cartilage tissue and can help reduce pain and inflammation in the joints of people with conditions such as arthritis or those who are physically active. It's a scientific fact that 50% of bone is formed from collagen, while the remaining 50% comes from calcium. That's why we need both components to have healthy bones.
Throughout our lives, our bones go through a constant process of breakdown and rebuilding. When we're younger, this balance stays even and bone density is maintained. But as we get older, rebuilding slows down, which can lead to a net loss of bone mass. Researchers from UCLA Health demonstrated in a study that one year of daily collagen peptide intake significantly increased bone mineral density in the lumbar spine and the upper part of the femur.
In a follow-up study four years later, researchers reported further benefits of taking collagen for joints and bones. The supplement was linked to a positive change in bone markers, showing increased bone formation and reduced bone breakdown.
Improves the condition of hair and nails
Collagen has a positive effect on hair and nails, strengthening their structure and stimulating growth. Adding collagen to your daily dose of vitamins can help regenerate hair follicles, renew hair growth, thicken the hair shaft, stop hair loss, and possibly slow down graying. Although studies on collagen and its effect on hair and nails are currently fewer in number than those on other areas of the human body, there is scientific evidence that intake has a favorable effect on these areas.
Keeps gums and teeth healthy
Collagen is important for gum health, which in turn affects the condition of your teeth. Gums are made up of gingival fibers – connective tissue fibers composed mainly of type 1 collagen, although type 3 fibers are also included. A 2012 study shows that taking collagen (in this case derived from beef) improves gum integrity – leading to healthier areas around the teeth and stopping their bleeding. This inevitably proves to us that by taking collagen we also prevent problems such as periodontitis. Collagen supplements increase bone density and we can safely conclude, that the protein will also help with anchoring the teeth to the jawbone.
Supports digestive system health
Collagen has a beneficial effect on the digestive system, supporting the health of the stomach, intestines, and esophagus and is essential for many physiological processes, including boosting metabolism. Because collagen is a protein, you'll feel fuller, which will help you lose excess weight.
Reduces arthritis pain
For people suffering from arthritis, collagen can act as a pain reliever and improve joint function.
Increases muscle mass
Collagen is also found in muscle tissue, but only in a small percentage (studies show that between 1% and 10% of muscle is made up of collagen). When it comes to muscle growth, collagen can help stimulate the production of certain proteins needed for muscle growth. Scientists found, after a study, that men who took collagen peptide supplements during a 12-week strength training program showed greater increases in muscle mass and strength than those who did not take collagen.
Better heart health
Collagen supports your arteries and blood vessels. When you lack collagen, your arteries may weaken. Brittle blood vessels increase the risk of atherosclerosis, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. A small study, conducted on healthy patients, found that collagen powder keeps arteries healthier and helps reduce the risk of atherosclerosis.
In our store you'll find pure collagen in hydrolyzed form – the only form that can be effectively absorbed, at a very good price and in the quantity needed to maintain high collagen levels in your body every day.
