Do Collagen Supplements Work For Joints?

Let's talk about collagen supplements! Collagen is necessary for the proper functioning of joints and strengthening the bones and tissues.

Joints become stiff and less flexible as we age, which is why many of us decide to exercise. Practicing sport brings benefits for these important areas of our body, allowing us to move freely and enjoy a good quality of life. Many people also complement their diets with collagen supplements for joints. But, do they really work? Keep reading and we’ll tell you!

What is collagen?

It’s a group of proteins that our body naturally generates as part of the tissues of the body, such as skin, hair, nails, and of course, joints. Consuming a sufficient amount of protein will help to keep your collagen levels stable.

People need 0.28 ounces of collagen, per pound of body weight. For example, if you weigh 132 pounds, you need to consume 37 ounces of protein. You can achieve this with diet supplements or by consuming more protein rich foods throughout the day.

You might think that you lack collagen because your bones feel sensitive? In this instance it’s good practice to visit your doctor to decide if you should take collagen supplements. If not, you can increase your protein intake with foods that are rich in collagen, such as eggs, pork, oxtail, salmon or cod.

What are collagen supplements for?

Can you imagine what life would be like without our joints? Our bodies would be rigid and we wouldn’t be able to lead a normal life. You can understand how this could impact you, if you have ever suffered from joint pain or injury that has left you immobilized.

For this reason, it’s essential that we take care of our joints to our best ability. And it’s the same reason why many people decide to take diet supplements. But, how effective are collagen supplements?

Well, collagen supplements that are made with 100% natural components have been included in medical prescriptions to help treat osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, pain and tendonitis. Therefore, it would seem that some medical professionals support their use.

Over the years, our joints can suffer from wear and tear due to injuries, obesity, unhealthy lifestyle habits and a sedentary lifestyle. When this happens, the vial fluid loses its nutrients and causes the cartilage to deteriorate and cause a friction in the bones.

The collagen acts as extra padding for that friction, thus, avoiding the wear and tear of the bones. Where does the natural collagen found in our bodies come from? It comes from the cartilage, but if this no longer works as it should, our bones lack collagen and we have to look for an external source. Until recently, one of the best-known ways to achieve this was through injections. However, advances in science have introduced collagen supplements, which are easy to take and less painful than injections.

Do collagen supplements work?

Studies have shown that yes, they do work! Although, they aren’t miraculous, the results are long term, particularly if the root cause that originally led to the problem, has been dealt with. For example, if obesity is the cause of the problem, it is necessary to lose weight. If a sedentary lifestyle caused joint issues, use exercise to remedy this.

Despite collagen supplements being a natural product, they shouldn’t be taken without following the advice of a medical professional. They can have adverse effects.

Today’s collagen supplements often contain concentrations of hyaluronic acid and magnesium. These provide extra assurances for the health of the bones, tendons, and joints. Talk to your doctor if you think it would help you.

Remember, exercise will help to strengthen your joints. However, if you already have some damage in these areas, you should avoid exercises and machines that could cause a direct impact on them.