Hello Gorgeous!
Collagen…most of us crave more of it because it helps prevent wrinkles but it goes so much deeper than that. Collagen is a type of protein that our bodies naturally produce to help maintain skin, hair and nail health, bone and joint health, gut health and even your immune system. It’s a great thing! The real bummer is that collagen production declines as we age and that can take a toll on the overall health of the body. That’s where collagen supplements come into play.
Research continues on all of the benefits of collagen; but thus far it seems that using hydrolyzed collagen (Type 1 & 3) is the most beneficial. Hydrolyzed simply means that it is broken down into smaller molecules making it easier for our body to absorb. Types 1 & 3 collagen are the most all encompassing, meaning they target many areas within the body that may have a collagen deficit. When it comes to skin, evidence is still lacking. There are a few small studies that show evidence of increased skin hydration and elasticity. So that seems promising, to me!
Ok, so I’ve done the research but I was curious what it would do for me…especially because I’ve had so many patients ask me my opinion on it. About 3 months ago I decided to add a powdered collagen supplement into my morning cup of tea. It’s flavorless and dissolves well into my tea after a quick swirl with a spoon. The published clinical studies that I’ve read only went up to 12 weeks. So that’s why I’m giving you my results now. My conclusion, I don’t really notice a difference in my skin. Does that mean it’s not working? Not necessarily. It could be working elsewhere in my body that has a stronger deficit than my skin. I really don’t know. What I do know is that it can’t hurt to continue using it. I will continue to monitor the clinical data that comes out about collagen supplements because I do believe that there may be benefits from using it. What about you…Have you tried collagen supplements and noticed a difference?
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