Everything You Need to Know About Collagen Peptides

If you’re searching for food supplements that can boost the condition of your skin, bone, hair, or cartilage, taking collagen peptides regularly could be the answer. But before you begin, it’s a good idea to learn about all the benefits and side effects associated with regular consumption.

This guide to collagen peptide supplements includes all the essential information you need to decide whether they’re right for you.

What Are Collagen Peptides?

Put simply, collagen peptides are tiny protein fragments that originate from animal collagen – one of the building blocks of skin, bone, hair, and cartilage.

There are many forms of protein in the human body, but collagen is the most abundant. It constitutes the main connective tissue in various body parts. And while it’s produced by the human body, production levels wane as people grow older. That’s why taking collagen regularly is a good idea.

You can get collagen directly from foods such as bone marrow and pork skin, but collagen peptide supplements represent an easier and more convenient way to give your body the amount it needs.

Available in both powder form and capsules, collagen supplements may be more readily absorbed by the body than naturally occurring collagen – according to Healthline.

What Are the Benefits of Taking Collagen Peptide Supplements?

So, we know that the human body’s ability to produce collagen deteriorates over time. And that means the benefits delivered by this natural substance also deteriorate. This is why our skin tends to lose its elasticity as we grow older.

But there’s good news! Taking collagen peptides in the form of supplements can deliver various benefits.

Collagen Peptides Can Alleviate or Delay Skin Wrinkles

According to a major study involving 800 subjects, taking collagen supplements daily can improve skin elasticity, enhance the skin’s ability to retain moisture, and increase the density of collagen within the skin. The result? Younger-looking skin and a more youthful appearance.

Improved Overall Health

As we now know, collagen levels diminish in humans as a result of the aging process. Some clinicians call collagen the “glue” that holds us together, so it’s vital that we do whatever we can to maintain healthy levels as we grow older. After all, nearly a third of the protein in your body right now is collagen. Adding collagen peptides to your diet via supplements is a great way to mitigate the aging process and support your general well-being.

Potential for Improved Intestinal Health

There is some evidence to suggest that collagen has so-called “gut-healing” properties that can fight the effects of certain intestinal disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). One study of IBD patients revealed that the breakdown of collagen fibers happened at a faster rate than the formation of new fibers in the gut’s connective tissues. While the research isn’t conclusive, there is a school of thought that replacing lost collagen might alleviate the symptoms of IBD.

Easily Digestible Protein

Some people struggle to digest meat-based sources of protein such as beef and chicken. One potential alternative source of protein is a collagen peptide supplement, as it will usually be hydrolyzed – a process that starts the breakdown of collagen and makes it easier to digest.

Collagen Peptides Might Alleviate Joint Pain

Anyone who suffers from joint pain and immobility will know just how debilitating and life-limiting it can be. As collagen is effective at providing support for connective tissues in the knees and ankles, it might prevent or alleviate joint pain – particularly during and after exercise. A study involving athletes who took 5g of collagen peptides every day for three months discovered that those who took the supplement experienced significantly less joint pain during exercise.

Potential Benefits for Bone Health

The strength and density of your bones deteriorate as you grow older. This is especially true for post-menopausal women. It is believed that one of the reasons for this is the body’s inability to keep producing collagen at the same rate. However, there is some potentially good news.

A study of 102 women who had already experienced menopause revealed that the subjects who took collagen peptide supplements for one year experienced significantly higher bone density recovery than those taking a placebo.

Potential Heart Health Benefits

While the research isn’t conclusive, there is some evidence that collagen may strengthen the walls of blood vessels – thus reducing the risk of artery disease. A study involving 32 people who took collagen peptide supplements twice a day for six months revealed that cholesterol levels and arterial stiffness were both significantly reduced.

Are There Any Side Effects Associated with Taking Collagen Peptide Supplements?

The great news for anyone looking for ways to improve their skin, hair, or nails is that there are no serious side effects associated with collagen peptides. This is, after all, a natural substance the human body produces on its own.

However, it’s still a good idea to check the ingredients of your chosen collagen peptide supplements. That’s because some products also contain additional vitamins, minerals, and natural substances that might interfere with other medications or trigger symptoms related to pre-existing conditions.

For example, the nutrient biotin is added to some collagen peptide supplements. While it won’t usually cause any issues, biotin has been known to skew laboratory test results for heart and thyroid conditions. Thankfully, German Pharma Collagen Peptides is Pure Form Collagen Peptides with no added extras!

Should You Take Collagen Peptides?

While you can eat foods such as bone broth and certain types of fish to replenish collagen levels in your body, there’s nothing you can do to reverse the aging process. Whether you like it or not, you’re going to produce less collagen as you grow older.

If you’re not too keen on the thought of eating lots of fish skin, bones, and ligaments, taking 2.5g to 10g of collagen peptides per day for up to six months is a safe and convenient way to mitigate the reduction of naturally occurring collagen. Doing so could keep your hair and skin looking young and vibrant for longer.