Do You Need Collagen Supplements? A Complete Guide

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Image Credit @ Zoe McConnell for Variety

As the ‘master of nudes’, a lot of my work is skin focused. And as you’ll know if you’ve read my book Eat Beautiful (link already in), I always take an inside-out approach to great skin. Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body. It is responsible for providing structure and elasticity to our skin, bones, joints, and tissue. As we age, our body’s ability to produce collagen decreases, which can lead to wrinkles, joint pain, and other signs of ageing. This has led to a rise in popularity for collagen supplements, but do you really need them?

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What is Collagen?

Collagen is a protein that is found in the connective tissues of our body. It makes up about one-third of all the protein in our body and is responsible for providing strength and support to our tissues, as well as helping with the formation of new cells. There are over 20 different types of amino acids that make up collagen. They are essential for the formation of collagen and are found in high concentrations in collagen-rich foods like bone broth and gelatin.

One of the most well-known benefits of collagen is its ability to improve the appearance of our skin. As we age, our bodies produce less collagen, which can lead to wrinkles, sagging skin, and a loss of elasticity. By supplementing with collagen, we can help to restore the levels of this important protein in our skin, which can lead to a more youthful and radiant appearance.

Collagen has also been shown to help reduce joint pain and stiffness, making it a popular supplement for athletes and those with arthritis or other joint conditions. It is important for gut health and digestion.

What are the Different Types of Collagen Supplements?

Collagen supplements come in various forms, including powders, capsules, and drinks. They can be made from different sources, such as bovine, fish, or chicken collagen. The most common types of collagen supplements are Type I, II, and III collagens. Type I collagen is the most abundant type of collagen in our body and is found in our skin, bones, and tendons. It provides structure and support to these tissues and helps to keep them strong and flexible. Type II collagen is mainly found in cartilage and helps to cushion and protect our joints. Type III collagen is found in our skin and organs and helps to maintain their elasticity and firmness.

You should remember that while collagen supplements can be helpful, they are not a magic solution for all signs of ageing and you should also focus on your diet, skincare regime and lifestyle to ensure the best possible outcomes.

How Do Collagen Supplements Work?

Collagen supplements work by providing your body with the amino acids it needs to build new collagen proteins. The proteins can then be used in various parts of your body to improve skin elasticity, reduce joint pain, and improve overall health.

Is Collagen Safe to Take?

Collagen supplements are generally considered safe to take, but there may be some side effects depending on the type of collagen and the person taking it. It’s important to talk to your doctor before starting collagen supplements if you have any underlying health conditions.

Are There Any Natural Alternatives to Collagen Supplements?

If you want to avoid collagen supplements, you can try eating a diet rich in collagen-boosting foods, such as bone broth, salmon, and leafy greens. You can also improve collagen production by getting enough sleep, reducing stress, and protecting your skin from the sun.