What Are the Health Benefits of Hydrolyzed Collagen?
Nowadays, many people suffer from joint and tendon issues. These structural problems can alter and condition a person’s way of life, which negatively affects their state of health. Fortunately, nutrition plays an important role in reversing this process, and hydrolyzed collagen can prove helpful.
Generally speaking, it’s important for you to know that collagen is the most abundant protein in the body. It’s synthesized endogenously and is responsible for making lean and connective tissue elastic. Therefore, it’s a fundamental component of tendons, ligaments, and joints.
The benefits of hydrolyzed collagen
For many years, experts have investigated supplements capable of exerting a positive effect on musculoskeletal health. For this purpose, they studied the function of shark cartilage, collagen itself, and glucosamine.
However, hydrolyzed collagen seems to offer the best results. Current scientific publications evidence this.
According to scientific literature, hydrolyzed collagen is capable of improving the management of osteoarthritis. In addition, it’s also responsible for increasing the speed of reconstruction processes in some tendon sections. Nevertheless, this is still being studied. It could be an effective supplement to maintain muscle health.
On the other hand, we also have to highlight the aesthetic use of hydrolyzed collagen. According to a study published in the journal Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine, this protein can induce greater skin elasticity and, thus, improve the external appearance. Due to these discoveries, most beauty products contain this nutrient.
Other ways to boost collagen production
Despite the proven effects of hydrolyzed collagen, there are other ways to boost endogenous collagen synthesis. One of them is consuming more vitamin C. In fact, combining this nutrient with gelatin can also help improve musculoskeletal health.
Taking at least one gram of vitamin C a day can boost collagen synthesis. It can also help recovery for athletes who suffered a muscle injury.
On the other hand, you need to consume enough protein to ensure endogenous collagen synthesis. Without a positive nitrogen balance, your body won’t be able to produce this very important protein. Experts advise eating at least 0.5 to 0.8 grams of protein per pound of bodyweight to ensure this balance. But if you exercise regularly, you have to consume more protein.
Likewise, it’s worth noting that at least 50 percent of the protein has to come from animal sources. Proteins from animal sources have a higher biological value. They contain all of the essential amino acids and have higher digestibility.
This makes it easier for the body to metabolize them and prevents nutrient deficiencies, which positively affects the physiological reactions that play a role in lean tissue.
Hydrolyzed collagen, a viable alternative
There’s a lack of solid evidence regarding the use of hydrolyzed collagen in the treatment of muscle or tendon injuries. However, the studies conducted so far, state that this protein is a valid option in the management of musculoskeletal problems.
Experts have already proven effective the combination of hydrolyzed collagen with other elements such as glucosamine for certain conditions such as osteoarthritis. On the other hand, experts evidenced some time back that it can improve the efficiency of beauty treatments. Both facial creams and cosmetic dietary supplements usually contain this protein.
Similarly, if your goal is to improve your lean tissue or boost your muscle or tendon injury recovery, you should consider enhancing endogenous collagen synthesis. To do this, you have to take at least one gram of vitamin C per day.
You can either do this through your diet or a supplement. The latter is the easiest option. Finally, you can combine the supplement with gelatin to maximize results.
All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.
- Puigdellivol J., Berenger CC., Fernández MAP., Millán JMC., et al., Effectivenes of a dietary supplement containing hydrolyzed collagen, chondroitin sulfate, and glucosamine in pain reduction and functional capacity in osteoarthritis patients. J Diet Suppl, 2019. 16 (4): 379-389.
- Lupu MA., Pircalabioru GG., Chifiriuc MC., Albulescu R., et al., Beneficial effects of food supplements based on hydrolyzed collagen for skin care (review). Exp Ther Med, 2020. 20 (1): 12-17.