Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. Although it fulfills a variety of functions, many people associate collagen with mainly one benefit: healthy, glowing skin. Because of its role in keeping the skin plump and firm, collagen is one of the most prominent natural ingredients used in modern skincare products.
Collagen supplements that claim to do more than supporting skin health have also become popular in recent years. Although not as talked about as collagen’s skin benefits, the things collagen does for other parts of your body are just as remarkable and important for your overall health.
If you’re curious about what collagen can do for you besides keeping your skin from sagging, read on to learn what science has to say about maintaining healthy collagen levels.
Why supplementing with collagen is important
Collagen is an insoluble, fibrous protein that serves as the main component of your bones and connective tissues. These tissues make up important parts of your body, such as your muscles, skin, tendons and ligaments. [1] Because collagen possesses great tensile strength, one of its primary functions is to help different types of tissue withstand stretching. Collagen also provides structure to your bones and elasticity to your skin, aside from helping hold your body together. [2]
According to research, there are at least 16 different types of collagen in existence. About 80 - 90% percent of the collagen in your body, however, is made up of only three types. Type I collagen – the most abundant of the three – forms fibers that provide structural support to vital organs, such as your skin, bones and small blood vessels. [3] Type II collagen, meanwhile, gives elasticity to your cartilage, enabling it to support your joints. [4] Type III collagen, on the other hand, serves as a structural component of hollow organs, such as the uterus, bowel and large blood vessels. [5]
The human body produces collagen by breaking down protein from food. However, this ability naturally decreases with age. Other factors, such as excessive sun exposure, poor diet and bad habits like smoking, can also decrease collagen production because they cause oxidative stress. According to experts, oxidative stress destroys collagen; insufficient collagen levels results in weak bones, poor digestion, weak or brittle nails, premature skin aging (e.g., wrinkles and sagging skin), stiff joints and slow wound healing. [6][7]
One of the best ways to avoid collagen deficiency is to make adjustments to your diet. Eating protein-rich foods like chicken, beef, eggs, legumes, nuts, whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables can support healthy collagen production. Besides providing your body with the materials to make collagen, these superfoods also contain antioxidants that protect against oxidative stress.
Another, much easier way of increasing your collagen levels is by taking collagen supplements. But instead of offering collagen in its whole form, these supplements contain peptides, or broken-down pieces of the protein. These peptides, unlike whole collagen, are easily absorbed by the body, so they can be used to support optimal collagen production or create other proteins – whichever the body needs more. [8]
Here are some health benefits taking collagen supplements.*
- Supports healthy bones and joints – According to a study by Brazilian researchers, supplementing with hydrolyzed collagen not only helps the body maintain strong bones, but it also supports healthy cartilage. [9] Healthy cartilage is important for maintaining optimal joint health.
- Supports healthy, glowing skin – Collagen is known for giving the skin elasticity. But research published in Skin Pharmacology and Physiology has also found that bioactive collagen peptides promote the normal production of elastin and fibrillin – proteins that help keep skin healthy and glowing. [10]
- Supports strong and healthy hair and nails – Research suggests that the body can use the amino acids in collagen to make hair proteins, thus strengthening hair strands. [11] A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology also reported that supplementation with collagen peptides can keep nails strong and healthy.[12]
- Supports a healthy gastrointestinal tract – Collagen peptides contain amino acids like glycine, glutamic acid and proline that can support the health of your digestive tract. In fact, collagen peptides provide an abundance of essential and non-essential amino acidsthat support a healthy brain, liver, immune system and more.
- Supports healthy cardiovascular function – Collagen is one of the structural proteins that support your arteries. These blood vessels carry blood from your heart to other parts of your body. Maintaining healthy collagen levels will maintain optimal artery health.
- Supports healthy muscles and tendons -- As an excellent source of glycine and arginine, collagen peptides can support healthy muscles. Collagen peptides are ideal for anyone living an active lifestyle or simply looking to build lean muscle mass.
- Supports sensible weight management plans – Protein consumption may help curb your appetite. According to studies, protein in the form of collagen peptides is more satiating than many other types of protein. Collagen also contains the amino acid glycine, which can support a healthy metabolism.
Where to get clean, glyphosate-tested collagen peptide supplements
Your body’s ability to produce collagen, which provides structural support to your skin, bones and muscles, declines with age. That’s why incorporating protein-rich foods into your diet and taking collagen supplements are important, especially for older adults. However, many commercially available collagen supplements are derived from genetically modified sources.
Groovy Bee prides itself with providing you with nothing but clean, pure and high-quality products. Groovy Bee Collagen Peptides are derived from grass-fed cows and contain Type I and Type III collagen produced by hydrolysis. Hydrolyzed collagen is easier to digest and absorb than whole collagen, so your body can benefit more from it if you take collagen in this form.
Groovy Bee Collagen Peptides contain calcium, iron, protein and 19 different amino acids, including essential amino acids like isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine and valine, and non-essential amino acids like alanine, arginine, glycine, proline, serine and tyrosine. Our premium bovine collagen powder easily dissolves in both cold and hot beverages (up to 120 degrees) and can be added to shakes, smoothies, fruit juices, teas and coffees. This supplement can also serve as a digestive aid or a muscle-building supplement.
For those looking for a little extra nutrition, our Groovy Bee Collagen Peptides + MCT with Prebiotic Fiber - Unflavored combines the therapeutic and nutritional benefits of organic coconut MCT oil powder and lab-verified bovine collagen peptides. This nutritive supplement is an excellent source of healthy fats, dietary fiber, protein, antioxidants and other nutrients like amino acids, calcium, potassium, iron and magnesium.
Support healthy energy levels with Groovy Bee Collagen Peptides + MCT with Prebiotic Fiber - Unflavored. An efficient source of glycine, collagen peptides can help you maintain optimal energy levels. MCT oil is also an excellent source of fuel for the mitochondria, the powerhouses of cells. Together, MCT oil and collagen peptides can help keep you energized and even support your endurance. Meanwhile, prebiotic fiber nourishes the probiotics in your gut to promote healthy digestive and immune functions. Add our premium powder to your favorite smoothies, drinks, baked goods and other recipes to boost your nutrient intake and enjoy a wide range of health benefits.
Our premium collagen peptide supplements contain no added fillers, sugars, sweeteners, preservatives or other ingredients that can diminish their potency or add extra calories. They are completely non-GMO and gluten-free and are lab tested for glyphosate, heavy metals and microbiology.
Prevent collagen deficiency and increase your protein intake with the best and cleanest collagen peptides on the market.
Know of other benefits of collagen we might’ve missed? Share them in the comments below.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose any diseases.
References
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/
[2] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition
[3] https://www.sciencedirect.com/
[4] https://www.rousselot.com/
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
[6] https://www.livescience.com/collagen.html
[7] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/
