People everywhere are consuming collagen, for the beautifying benefits to your hair, skin, and nails that may help keep wrinkles at bay.* Supplementing with this protein has become a popular practice, with new products popping up daily. But consuming collagen is nothing new — gelatin (the cooked form of collagen) is used in soups, bone broth, gummies, puddings, and Jell-O. You’ve probably been eating collagen without even realizing it!

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, as it helps provide structure and support. It’s responsible for the elasticity and strength of your connective tissue, required for healthy hair, skin, and nails.* There are several types of collagen with their own unique benefits. Type 1 Collagen is known for promoting strong skin, tendons, and ligaments.¹ Type 2 Collagen is found in cartilage, and Type 3 collagen is often found with type 1 and plays a key role in supporting skin elasticity.¹      

Collagen is a vital element to your body, but as adults, collagen production starts to slow down with age. This collagen loss is a natural process, but lifestyle and environmental factors are also collagen killers. Smoking, excessive sun exposure, and pollution can all mess with your body’s collagen production leading to early signs of aging.*

Here’s how collagen loss affects different parts of your body:

SKIN

Collagen provides elasticity and structure to your skin.* As collagen production slows down, your skin starts to thin, which can lead to signs of aging like wrinkles and saggy skin.*

BONES

When collagen levels lower, your bones get weaker, increasing the risk of fractures and injury.*

JOINTS

As you age, lower collagen contributes to the natural wear and tear of your joints. This can lead to an increase in joint stiffness and discomfort.*

You can fight back against collagen loss by consuming collagen-boosting foods and taking a collagen supplement. Collagen products are made of collagen peptides that have been sourced from animal collagen, like beef, chicken, fish, and even eggshell.

Research has shown that collagen peptides can enhance skin hydration, improve skin elasticity, and help maintain firm skin.* Certain sources of collagen have also been shown to maintain healthy joints and support bone strength.* While we can’t actually turn back the clock, taking a collagen supplement can help reduce visual signs of aging and support healthy hair, skin, and nails.*

To get the most out of your collagen supplements, choose a product that fits your lifestyle and wellness routine. While some people prefer powder to add to food and beverages, others might choose collagen capsules to take on-the-go. Check out our Supplements page to find the best product for you!

Collagen is an important protein for many components of your body. Supplementing with collagen peptides can help your body make this protein. With scientific studies showing their support for hair, skin, nail, joint and bone health*, it’s a no-brainer to add this supplement to your daily wellness routine!

References

¹Ricard-Blum S. (2011). Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol. 1;3(1).

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.