Oral collagen supplements have been shown to improve skin hydration and elasticity for older people. They might also help to lessen wrinkles.
Thicker Hair
While more men go bald, many women also experience hair loss or thinning as they age. In one study, a group of women with thinning hair saw significant increases in their hair’s quantity, scalp coverage, and thickness while taking daily collagen supplements.
Healthier Nails
Some people’s nails break more easily than others, and don’t grow as fast. One study in a group of women showed faster nail growth and fewer broken or chipped nails after only four weeks of daily collagen supplements.
Reduced Osteoarthritis Pain
For people with knee osteoarthritis, oral collagen supplements might act as a mild pain reliever and improve joint function. It may take about three to five months of daily treatment before you see these improvements.
Increased Muscle Mass
A combination of collagen peptide supplements and strength training could potentially help increase muscle mass and strength.
Potential Risks of Collagen Supplements
Side effects of collagen supplements are rare. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, you may want to hold off on taking a collagen supplement for now, since there isn’t yet enough research to come to any conclusions about their safety.
Healthier Alternatives
The effects of collagen supplements continue to be researched and debated. Instead of buying these supplements, you can always help your body make more collagen naturally by ensuring your diet is packed with healthy foods.
To produce collagen, your body puts the amino acids glycine and proline together with other amino acids including vitamin C, zinc, and copper. You can help your body produce more collagen by eating lots of glycine- and proline-rich foods like chicken, beef, fish, dairy, eggs, and beans. For vitamin C, zinc, and copper, you should also be sure to eat foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, leafy greens, shellfish, nuts, and whole grains. WebMD Medical Reference Reviewed by Dan Brennan, MD on October 26, 2020
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