The Science Behind Collagen Powder – Myths and Facts

Did you know that the global collagen market is expected to be worth over $16 billion USD by the year 2028? “Collagen” has become a buzzword in the health and wellness industry, and its market value may be a testament to its growing popularity. 

What is collagen? Collagen is the most abundant structural protein (making up cell and tissue frameworks) in mammals. Collagen levels deplete as we age, but we can help maintain them through supplements. What kind of benefits can you get from taking supplements like collagen powder, though? 

This article will delve into the science behind collagen powder, talk about how collagen works and how collagen powder benefits human health, and debunk some common myths about collagen.

Collagen Powder and Joint Health

Collagen is a crucial component of cartilage, which cushions joints. As we get older, the production of collagen decreases, which means that the joints no longer have the support they need to function optimally. This can cause or exacerbate joint pain and stiffness, especially for those suffering from conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Collagen and joint pain are linked. Studies have shown that collagen supplements have been linked to the improvement of osteoarthritis symptoms and the reduction of pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints by supporting your body’s regeneration and repair of cartilage. This means that supplementing your diet with collagen can not only lessen joint pain but also increase your overall mobility and flexibility. 

Collagen supplements may also improve health in other areas. Collagen may also inhibit bone breakdown, leading to postmenopausal osteoporosis when taken with calcium and vitamin D. Preliminary study findings also suggest that collagen could help people gain muscle mass when exercising. Although more research is needed, there have been findings that show an improvement in arterial stiffness with regular collagen supplementation — meaning that collagen may have a role to play in combating heart disease.

Myth vs. Fact: Collagen Is Not Just for ‘Old’ People

Contrary to popular belief, joint health and collagen aren’t just considerations for older people adults. Human collagen production levels begin to decline in our 20s, at a rate of about 1% every year. Furthermore, if you have had a particular active — and injury-prone — youth, it may not be a bad idea to start supplementing your collagen in your early adulthood. 

People of all ages can benefit from improved joint health. In fact, collagen may be the most effective as a preventative measure, not in response to the visible signs of aging.

It’s a sad fact. As we age and our collagen levels decrease, our skin becomes less plump, and fine lines become more noticeable. That’s because collagen, along with keratin, is responsible for the skin’s strength and elasticity. Studies have shown that collagen for skin care may improve elasticity and hydration in the skin and reduce wrinkles and roughness. That’s why many people take collagen for wrinkles and other signs of aging.

Improving skin with collagen may also help on another front: hair health, which declines with age and reduced collagen production. Collagen is packed with amino acids. These are broken down in the body and support the creation of keratin, which is important for our hair and nails. Collagen may also improve damage to hair follicles. 

Myth vs. Fact: Topical Collagen Is Not as Effective as Ingested Collagen

To pass through or penetrate the skin barrier, the substance must have a low enough molecular weight, among other factors. Some substances — such as transdermal drugs — are effective when applied topically to the skin. The collagen peptides in topical treatments, however, tend to be too large for the skin to properly absorb. Ingestible collagen supplements, derived from animal or plant-based natural collagen sources, use hydrolysed collagen, which means that the collagen peptides have been broken down for easier digestion and absorption. Applying a collagen cream may not be effective, since the collagen may not get absorbed, but the collagen peptides will make it into your body if you take ingestible collagen supplements. Just like beauty, collagen works from the inside out.

Collagen Powder and Gut Health

As for gut health support, collagen may actually have a positive impact. Similar to skin, the gut lining is a protective barrier that ideally allows only hydration and nutrients into the bloodstream. Collagen — through amino acids like L-glutamine, glycine, and proline — may help strengthen and tighten the junctions between intestinal cells to keep unwanted particles from entering the blood. Many have come forward with accounts of how collagen supplements have helped them with leaky gut syndrome and similar conditions. Recent collagen supplement science findings have shown incredible promise for bloating, bowel movements, and other gastrointestinal concerns.

Myth vs. Facts: Collagen Supplements Will Not Instantly Cure Gut Issues

For anyone looking for a quick cure for gut health issues, collagen will be disappointing…at first. The resolution of leaky gut syndrome would be a matter of at least weeks, not days. Just as it may have taken a long time for the microbiome and gut integrity to deteriorate, one must be patient and realistic when setting out to heal. Any healing that does occur will also be faster in combination with a healthier diet and lifestyle, not just reliance on a supplement. After all, collagen is also available in high-protein foods, and proper collagen synthesis also relies on other nutrients, like vitamin C. A supplement can help if you are not getting enough collagen since collagen supplements tend to be hydrolysed for easier digestion/absorption. If you choose to maintain a poor diet and lifestyle, however, you may be minimising the benefits you would receive from supplementing.

Collagen to Support Good Health

There are many collagen powder uses, including the improvement of the health of our joints and gut and in the care of skin and hair. While some studies have been done, there should be more. It’s always recommended to be informed if you are thinking of incorporating a supplement into your health regimen. Be discerning. Read collagen supplement reviews, and look for evidence-based articles. Base your decisions on facts, not fiction or myths. Ideally, consult with your healthcare professional to determine the best collagen supplement for your individual health needs. You should also look out for additives and other ingredients that may have interactions with medications you are taking or that are unhealthy in high doses.

When done properly, collagen supplementation may reap many health (and beauty) benefits and improve your day-to-day life — helping you look and feel your best.