What it does: Collagen provides strength and flexibility to tissues, supports joint cushioning, and helps maintain skin’s firmness and ability to retain moisture.
How it is used: Collagen is commonly taken as a supplement to support joint health, promote skin hydration and elasticity, and encourage healthy hair and nail growth, especially during aging when collagen loss increases.
Natural sources and supplement forms: Collagen naturally occurs in animal-derived foods like chicken, beef, and fish skin or bone broths. Supplements are typically offered as hydrolyzed collagen peptides, gelatin, or undenatured collagen in powders, capsules, or liquids.
Why it appears in supplement formulas: Collagen is sought after for its role in skin appearance, joint function, and connective tissue support, making it popular for people looking to address age-related declines.
What to know before use: Most collagen products are not suitable for vegetarians or vegans, and people with allergies to certain animal proteins (like fish or egg) should check the source before use.
Collagen: Your Body’s Most Abundant Protein
Collagen is the most plentiful protein in the human body, making up about one-third of total protein content. It forms a crucial part of connective tissues, such as skin, tendons, and bones. While your body naturally produces collagen, this supply gradually decreases with age, which is why collagen is commonly added to supplement formulas.
