The aging process is natural. It does not mean, however, that you should become less attractive or youthful as you age. Did you know that a significant amount of damage to the skin or joints is caused by a reduction in collagen, an important structural component of skin and bone?
What is collagen?
Collagen is the common name for a structural protein found in skin and connective tissue. About 30% of all proteins in the body are made up by this biomolecule. Collagen is composed of 19 amino acids, including glycine and arginaine.
Collagen and aging are directly related:
As we age, collagen production in our bodies decreases dramatically. The elasticity and thickness of the skin are affected, resulting in wrinkled or sagging. The same is true for tendons, ligaments, arteries and other tissues. The same causes joint pain, or osteoarthritis.
What are the main benefits of collagen to the human body?
Hydrated skin
The benefits of hydration for the skin are numerous. Your skin also needs optimal hydration to remain healthy and smooth. Dehydrated skin is more prone to wrinkles and dryness.
Numerous studies have shown that collagen peptides can slow down the changes that occur in skin due to ageing, such as dryness and loss elasticity.
In a study, women who drank collagen supplements in the form a drink for three months showed higher levels of hydration. However, more evidence is needed to prove the benefits.
Joint pain relief:
Collagen is an important component of cartilage. Cartilage protects the joints. As we age collagen production decreases. This leads to early signs of osteoarthritis.
In one study, athletes consumed 10 grams collagen per day for six months. This group of athletes reported significantly less joint pain compared to those who did not consume collagen.
A report in the Eurasian Journal of Medicine published in June 2016 shows that participants who take collagen experience a reduction of joint pain.
Collagen supplements have been shown to reduce inflammation and joint pains, as well as protect against the early onset osteoarthritis.
It plays a part in the prevention and treatment of bone loss.
Collagen is an important structural component that helps to keep the bones strong. Lack of bone mass occurs when the body reduces collagen production. Osteoporosis is a painful condition that increases the risk of fractures.
Women who consumed 5 grams of collagen over a period of 12 months had a higher BMD (7%) than women who didn’t.
Improve your cardiovascular health
Collagen is the main structural component of arteries. A decrease in collagen levels weakens them. This can lead to a narrowing in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis, and even heart attacks.
A study was done on 31 adults who consumed 16 grams of collagen daily for 24 weeks. The results of the study show that participants’ arteries are less stiff.
Collagen supplements derived from plants may help improve gut health
For those suffering from digestive disorders like IBS or irritable Bowel Syndrome, there is a positive outcome. According to a study published in Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics, patients with IBD have an imbalanced collagen level. It is possible that collagen supplements could improve gut health and alleviate some symptoms in patients with digestive problems.
Collagen also helps to maintain the health of nails, hair, and skin. It can also help with metabolism.
Did you know the market value of the biomolecule collagen is expected to reach $6 billions in 2025? This super biomolecule has become a billion dollar industry due to the increased awareness of its multiple benefits for skin health and bone health.
Collagen is found naturally in foods such as fish, chicken and citrus fruits. It can also be found in some herbs, including Chinese knotweed and horsetail, and other vegetables and fruits. The industry has been forced to find plant-based substitutes due to the rise of veganism.
Demand for collagen derived from plants is increasing:
Veganism goes beyond a diet change! Veganism is more than a dietary change. It’s a lifestyle where vegans choose to avoid animal products or diets. Vegans who abstain and do not consume animal products. Plant-based collagen is becoming more popular. It is different from animal collagen.
Collagen can also be made by genetically modified bacteria and yeast. P. pastoris is a bacteria that produces high-quality collagen, according to studies. Natural plant-based collagen can be found in extracts such as sea buckthorn berry, acai, acerola, and others.
The range of collagen products is vast, from elixirs derived from deep sea collagen to powders based on native plants. The beauty industry and health supplement industries are experiencing a boom in collagen demand.
Studies have shown that consuming plant-based collagen or other products similar to it has a different effect than collagen derived from animal products. There is a shift to plant-based or “vegan” collagen due to the lower costs and a more scalable lab environment where yeast can be produced. Some people may also experience less allergic reactions when consuming animal collagen.
Two of the best-rated collagen-based plant products in Australia
Native Collagen Powder by Edible Beauty
This 100% plant-based, collagen powder, manufactured by Edible Beauty in Australia, is rich in anti-oxidants, protects against premature ageing, and optimizes gut-health. The product contains extracts of naturally occurring plants such as Hibiscus. Kakadu Plum. Quandong. Sea Buckthorn. Maqui Berry. The product is free of animal cruelty.
“I waited for several weeks to be able to give an honest review. I mix a teaspoon with water, bananas, and pumpkin seeds. Sunflower seeds and flax meal. This is what I do every morning. The energy that I get from it is incredible. The wait was worth it. It took two weeks, but the results were well worth it. My hair and nails feel healthier. I will continue using this product.” Natasha F.
Adore Beauty Deep-Sea Collagen Elixir:
The deep-sea Collagen Elixir Serum is a magic mantra to replenish the skin. It contains natural extracts of Seaweed, Lychees, Purslanes, Arcadia Senegals, Xanthan Gum, Millet Seeds, Portulaca oleracea and others. This product is cruelty-free and vegan.
This serum makes my skin feel incredibly soft and glowing! This product will be purchased again before it expires because I do not want to be without this amazing product!!! !” – Zhaowei.
Collagen is an essential component for the health of skin, bones, and other functions. More research will be needed to determine its exact benefits. There is a positive certainty that collagen consumption has few or no side effects and many people enjoy glowing skin and a healthy gut.
