It’s likely you’ve seen collagen stocked on supermarket shelves or heard about it while you’re scrolling through social media. But unlike many of the nutrition trends out there (think celery juice!)—collagen supplements are a nutritional powerhouse we can get behind and truly believe in. Here, we’ll do a deep dive into the science and benefits of collagen, plus share how you can reap these benefits right in your kitchen.
All about collagen:
The most abundant proteins found in mammals, collagens are actually a family of structural proteins that include 28 known types. Collagens can be divided into subfamilies, and these subfamilies are associated with different parts of the body. For example, collagen types I and III are found in the skin, while I and V are in the cornea.
Here’s why it’s important:
As we age, our body naturally starts lowering its collagen production. External factors, like sun exposure and pollution, can affect collagen levels as well. This loss of collagen is what contributes to sagging skin and slower wound healing in older adults.
Emerging science-backed benefits:
While evidence of collagen supplementation is preliminary, it is certainly promising.
For skin:
- Collagen supplementation has been found in numerous studies to increase skin elasticity, hydration, and dermal collagen density.
For digestion:
- It could be potentially beneficial for those with digestive issues, as low levels of collagen have been found in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
For muscle growth:
- Collagen may even be beneficial for physical performance and growth. In a recent study, female soccer players who had supplemental collagen were found to have changes in patellar muscle properties compared to those who had a placebo.
Here’s how to have it:
If you’re not sure where to start, Green Compass collagen is a brand we love and trust. Green Compass contains all eight types of collagen, with no additives and enhanced bioavailability. A few of our favorite SWW-approved ways to have it include whisking one packet into coffee or tea, adding it to a smoothie, or even mixing it into your chia pudding.
