Does taking collagen powder really help build collagen? It’s good that you asked that because it means you are skeptical and only the skeptical consumer is safe. Here’s a look at the answer.
To date, there have been no studies collagen powder indicating that the supplements provide results. There is only anecdotal evidence. In other words, it “might” help.
The body needs protein to build cells, fibers, joints, ligaments, bone…in other words, everything in the human body. Collagens are not complete proteins, because they do not contain all of the essential amino acids. Other “real” foods, eggs for example, are dietary sources of complete protein.
Initially, the powders were used by body builders and those that just wanted to “bulk up”, because in order to build muscles, fitness experts say that it is necessary to take in one gram of protein per pound of body weight on a daily basis. That’s sometimes hard to do without supplementation.
But, your question is does taking collagen powder really help build collagen. I would have to say that is doubtful. In the digestive system, collagens would be broken down into their component amino acids. If those amino acids were recognized and needed by the body, at all, they would be used in the area of greatest need, which is often repair and maintenance of the vital organs.
The human body is an efficient machine, if it has the right fuel and the right tools.
But, it also knows what functions are most important to keep the body alive, which brings up another question. Where in the body would you like to build-up collagens?
Let’s see, does taking collagen powder really help build collagen in the joints or ligaments? That is a different type of collagen than that which is found in the skin.
Most of the supplements on the market are basically powdered chicken bones.
Since it is not something that we would normally eat, I would have to say, “No”.
A combination supplement that includes fish oil and green lipped mussel extract has been shown to improve the function of the joints, reduce pain and the need for pain-killers.
But, does taking collagen powder really help build collagen in the dermis layer of the skin?
If you are not getting enough protein in your diet, you may want to address that first by eating more eggs, lean chicken or Alaskan salmon.
Then you should consider a supplement that contains many of the amino acids that are essential to delay and counter the approach of age.
Finally, you would want to use a nourishing moisturizer every day and night.
The primary ingredient to look for is bio-active keratin, another protein that composes 95% of the skin’s outer layers; the epidermis.
Bio-active keratin is different from other kinds, because it is fully available for use by the skin’s cells.