Some studies show that taking collagen supplements for several months can improve skin elasticity, (i.e., wrinkles and roughness) as well as signs of aging. Others have shown that consuming collagen can increase density in bones weakened with age and can improve joint, back and knee pain.
In order the get visible effects of collagen on your joints, you need to take regular supplements for at least 12 weeks to 24 weeks. Studies show that bothersome symptoms of joint pain or joint aches may be improved by collagen around 3 months to 6 months.
While some people taking collagen report improvements in signs of skin aging, joint, knee and arthritic pain, osteoarthritis symptoms, muscle mass and strength, scientific studies have reported varying results on the effectiveness of collagen supplementation.
Even after a few weeks, I noticed more elasticity in my skin and an improvement in my joint pain. I also noticed that my nails were stronger. (My regular manicurist saw it too—before I even said a word!) After about eight weeks, I noticed that my hair was growing faster and thicker than it had in a long time!
Research shows that taking 2.5 to 15 grams daily of hydrolyzed collagen is safe. A smaller dose benefits your joints and skin, while a larger amount may help with body composition and muscle mass.
Collagen's role in the body
Collagen is a protein that serves as one of the main building blocks for your bones, skin, hair, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. "Collagen is what keeps our skin from sagging, giving us that plump, youthful look," says dermatologist Dr. Ohara Aivaz.
Collagen is a naturally occurring protein in the body. Supplementing with collagen may help people lose weight by promoting satiety, supporting joint health, and altering how the body stores fat. Collagen is one of the most important proteins in the human body and is present in all the body's tissues and organs.
As a result, taking too much collagen may lead to indigestion, bloating, and gas. Additionally, some people may be allergic to collagen supplements. If you experience any itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing after taking collagen supplements, it's important to stop taking them and see a doctor immediately.
AT WHAT AGE SHOULD I TAKE COLLAGEN SUPPLEMENTS? Any age can benefit from collagen. But since aging effects manifest later in life, collagen supplementation is advised to begin in the early 20s. You might find that the effects of aging set in more quickly if you lead a strenuous lifestyle.
Collagen supplements may not be safe for: People with fish, shellfish, or egg allergies (collagen supplements may contain these allergens as ingredients)16.
Collagen peptides have been safely used in doses up to 10 grams daily for up to 5 months. Side effects are rare.
According to Pam Hartnett, MPH, RDN, “Collagen is generally considered a safe supplement to day daily. In fact, most studies that found a benefit to collagen supplementation looked at consistent daily intake and none of these studies found significant side effects.”
There are no official guidelines as to how much collagen should be taken per day. Generally, for improved skin and hair health, 2.5-10 grams of collagen peptides can be taken orally for 8-12 weeks daily. For arthritis, 10 grams of collagen peptides can be taken daily in 1-2 divided doses for about 5 months.
Collagen supplements have been shown to increase the body's hair building proteins, which can result in longer, thicker hair. Collagen may help reduce the appearance of gray hair by supporting the healthy structure of the hair follicle (where the pigment that gives hair its color is produced).
While there are plenty of suggestions floating around, really, the best time of day to take your collagen supplement is whenever works best for you. Suppose you like to take it in the morning, great. If you prefer it as a snack during the day, great, or if you want to take it before bed, that's also great.
Many of the studies available suggest that you'd be able to noticeably see improvements in skin elasticity, hydration, and density anywhere between 6 and 12 weeks of regular collagen supplementation.
No matter your age, it's never too late to start supporting your body's production of collagen and to see the benefits in your skin, hair, and nails. Collagen is the protein responsible for smooth and firm skin, resilient nails, and strong hair.
Best of all, it's never too late to start taking collagen. Whether you are starting to notice subtle, early signs of ageing or want to counter more visible signs of getting older, people of all ages can benefit from taking collagen supplements to boost their collagen production.
Collagen and mood
Ingesting collagen as your main form of protein can potentially lead to a deficit in tryptophan. A decrease in tryptophan results in lower serotonin levels and has the potential to cause feelings of anxiety, irritability, and depression (particularly if you already suffer from a mood disorder.)
However, the answer to this question is that taking collagen does not cause weight gain. The only way to gain weight is if you take in more calories than you burn and collagen doesn't contain too many calories. In fact, each pack of Absolute Collagen contains only 32 calories per 10ml serving.
Therefore, because collagen contains glycine, ingesting it can help you to fall asleep much faster. This hit of glycine will lower your body temperature, tricking your body into thinking that it's time to rest.
However, there is a common misconception that adding more collagen to your diet can cause weight gain. This is not the case, and in fact, it may indirectly help you lose weight.
Consuming collagen helps slow down the emptying of our stomach, which can lead to feelings of fullness and satiety. This can help to reduce cravings and prevent overeating, ultimately leading to weight loss.