What is collagen?
Collagen is a fibrous protein found in abundance in our body. It constitutes approximately 30% of total protein in humans and plays an essential role in the structure and elasticity of our connective tissues, including skin, cartilage, tendons, ligaments and bones. As we age, our natural collagen production gradually declines, leading to various signs of aging such as more pronounced wrinkles or joint pain.
Supposed Benefits of Collagen for Health and Beauty
The use of collagen supplements has gained popularity in recent years thanks to their many potential benefits for our physical appearance as well as our general well-being:
- Improved skin appearance: Collagen helps maintain skin elasticity and hydration. Several studies have shown that supplementing with hydrolyzed collagen peptides can visibly reduce deep wrinkles while improving firmness and overall complexion.
- Reduction of joint pain: Cartilage is composed mainly of collagen fibers. A decrease in collagen production can cause cartilage breakdown and lead to joint pain or osteoarthritis. Taking collagen supplements could help relieve this pain by strengthening connective tissues.
- Nail strengthening: Collagen is also present in nails, and its supplementation could contribute to their growth as well as their strength.
The different forms of collagen supplements
The market offers several types of products containing collagen, including:
- Powder: Hydrolyzed collagen peptides are often sold in soluble powder form that can be easily incorporated into our daily foods or drinks.
- Tablets and capsules: For those who prefer a more practical format, there are also tablets or capsules containing collagen.
- Gelatin: Gelatin is an animal protein obtained by partial hydrolysis of collagen. It is commonly used as a food thickener but can also be consumed for its health and beauty benefits.
Maximum daily dose recommended by Health Canada
Health Canada recommends a maximum daily dose of up to 10 grams for hydrolyzed collagen peptides, while other sources suggest consumption of 5 to 15 grams per day. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting collagen supplementation to determine the appropriate dose based on our individual needs.
Does the body use collagen from food?
Foods rich in collagen, such as bone broths or fatty fish, can contribute to our daily intake of this essential protein. However, it is important to note that dietary collagen is generally broken down into amino acids during digestion and is not directly used as a source of collagen by our bodies. However, these amino acids can be used to produce new collagen in our body.
My personal experience with hydrolyzed collagen peptides
Having noticed the first deep wrinkles appearing on my face and experiencing some occasional joint pain, I decided to try a specific product: XYZ Collagen Powder (fictitious name). I integrated this powder into my daily routine for 30 days to evaluate its effectiveness.
My initial impressions were positive: the powder dissolved easily into my favorite drinks without altering their taste or texture. After 30 days of use, I was able to observe a notable improvement in the appearance and firmness of my skin, as well as a slight reduction in joint pain. However, it is important to emphasize that these results are subjective and could vary from person to person.
Conclusion: a healthy lifestyle above all
Collagen supplements, including hydrolyzed collagen peptides, may provide some benefits to our health and beauty. However, it is crucial to adopt a healthy lifestyle at the same time to maximize their effectiveness. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, adequate hydration and regular exercise remain the essential pillars for preserving our youth and our general well-being.
