Benefits of Liquid Collagen: for Face, Skin, Weight Loss, and Hair

Introduction One of the hard truths about the human body is that it is not designed to last forever. No one stays young for eternity. At some point, the versatility and vitality of the main organs and tissues in the body start to decline. Different biological and physiological processes in the body start shutting down at some point. This explains why, at some particular age, the body becomes more prone to specific ailments and disorders. Aging affects our health in various ways, leading to a higher risk of ailments as we grow older. Sadly, while some processes and functions don’t start declining until old age, from sixty-five and above, some begin very early. A perfect example is collagen, an essential protein in the body. The production of collagen starts to decline in the mid to late 20s and early 30s. This implies if the level of this protein is not replenished, all the organs and processes that rely on the availability of the protein to function will start to decline in activity. Collagen is essential for maintaining the health and function of many bodily organs and systems. Fortunately, these processes and organs can be maintained at peak functionality for a considerable amount of time with the use of appropriate medical interventions, such as medicines, therapies, and surgical procedures. Medical interventions can support the body’s systems, helping to preserve their function effectively. We will therefore concentrate on collagen, including its restrictions, synthesis, advantages, and methods of consumption, particularly liquid collagen. Understanding collagen is vital, as it plays a crucial role in overall health and wellness. What is Collagen? In simple terms, collagen is a protein responsible for healthy joints, skin elasticity, or stretchiness. It’s in your bones, muscles, and blood, comprising three-quarters of your skin and the most abundant protein in the human body, making up about 30% of its total protein content . Collagen is produced by specialized cells called fibroblasts, which are found in the skin and other connective tissues. Fibroblasts are key cells that contribute significantly to the production of collagen in the body. According to scientists, there are 28 different types of collagen in human tissues. The most abundant is type I, which makes up over 90% of collagen in the body. The skin contains collagen types I, II, and III, which give skin strength and elasticity. After reaching our maximum level of collagen production as we age, the levels begin to decline. And according to research , humans reach their peak collagen synthesis at age 20, and starting in the mid-20s, the human body starts to break down the collagen it already has, making it more difficult for it to make more . Sadly, when you approach, the difference becomes so significant that you begin to see symptoms such as joint pain, saggy skin, wrinkles, and more. That explains why you see many individuals opt for collagen supplements, such as liquid collagen to keep the level of collagen at an optimum level. An excellent way to take collagen supplements includes peptides, protein powder, pills, or liquid collagen. However, we will talk about liquid collagen. Liquid collagen is a popular choice among those seeking to enhance their collagen intake conveniently. Liquid Collagen Liquid collagen contains hydrolyzed proteins broken down into smaller blocks or peptides for better absorption. Most of the water, generated from animal connective tissues, has been purified and is available as prepared beverages, vials, or smoothies. Hydrolyzed proteins in liquid collagen are designed to optimize absorption, making it an effective option for supplementation. Types of Liquid Collagen. The collagen in liquid collagen products is produced from different sources. It is helpful to know the differences before thinking about buying a supplement because of allergies and sensitivities. Understanding the sources of liquid collagen can help you choose the right product for your health needs. The most common source of collagen in supplements is beef. This is usually preferred because the body tolerates and absorbs bovine collagen very well. Collagen from pigs is also easy to absorb, similar to human collagen. Other products may contain collagen from: Sheep Chicken, duck, or rabbit skin Fish or marine invertebrates (such as jellyfish or sponges) Marine collagen is one of the most popular types in the cosmetic industry. According to a 2020 study , it causes less inflammation than animal sources and is less likely to contain contaminants. Marine collagen is favored in cosmetics for its potential anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular choice for skin care. Health Benefits of Liquid Collagen. Although little to no research specifically considers the health benefits of liquid collagen, there are loads of studies and reviews on the general health benefits of collagen supplementation. Below are a few: While research on liquid collagen is limited, many studies suggest that collagen supplementation may support overall health, particularly for skin, joints, and more. 1. Skin and Nail Health Collagen supplements are commonly known for their ability to improve the texture and appearance of the skin. As the skin is made up of around 75% collagen, liquid collagen has been shown to help improve elasticity. Due to its significant role in skin structure, collagen supplementation may enhance skin elasticity and overall appearance, especially as we age. Also, it increases hydration and reduces the appearance of wrinkles on the skin. By enhancing moisture levels, liquid collagen may help in maintaining a more youthful appearance by reducing the visibility of wrinkles. In a 2019 study from Germany, 72 older women who received either liquid collagen or a phony supplement were examined to determine the effects of collagen supplementation. Skin hydration, elasticity, roughness, and density significantly improved after four weeks in individuals who received liquid collagen. These improvements indicate that liquid collagen supplementation can play a significant role in overall skin health. A 2019 assessment of research from the University of California, Irvine, corroborated these findings and found that collagen supplements are “promising” in their capacity to raise skin elasticity, moisture, and density. However, the study stated that more research is required. This highlights the need for further studies to better understand the benefits of collagen on skin health. Additionally, several studies have established a connection between improved nail health and collagen supplementation. This suggests that collagen may be beneficial for those seeking to improve their nail condition. According to a 2017 study , after taking a collagen peptide supplement for 24 weeks, those with brittle nails experienced a 12% increase in nail growth, a 42% decrease in nail breaking, and an improvement in nail brittleness. This study indicates that collagen supplementation can lead to significant improvements in nail strength and growth. 2. Muscle Mass and Strength Muscles are comprised of only around 10% collagen or less . Hence, collagen doesn’t help “build” muscles but instead supports the structural stability of muscles so that they remain healthy and strong. This structural support is crucial for maintaining muscle integrity during physical activities. Compared to 12 weeks of strength training alone, a 2019 study in the journal Nutrients revealed that a 15-gram daily dose of hydrolyzed collagen peptide boosted muscle mass and strength. Hydrolyzed collagen peptide is a form of collagen that is easier for the body to absorb, potentially enhancing its effectiveness in muscle growth. However, the lack of a control group, which would have allowed researchers to determine if collagen supplements have any benefits, limited the findings, which were nonetheless encouraging. This highlights the need for further research to fully understand the benefits and effectiveness of collagen supplementation. 3. Osteoarthritis Cartilage comprises around 60% collagen , and the loss of collagen over time contributes to the onset of osteoarthritis (“wear-and-tear arthritis”). Understanding collagen's role in cartilage health is crucial, as it may help in preventing joint issues as one ages. The use of a hydrolyzed collagen supplement daily may reduce the development of osteoarthritis by encouraging the distribution of collagen in joint cartilage, according to a 2016 review of studies from Brazil that included both human and animal trials. This suggests that collagen supplements could be a proactive measure for joint health, potentially delaying the onset of osteoarthritis. Collagen supplements may help with cartilage growth and healing, according to another review that included 41 published research . Improving cartilage growth and healing is vital for joint mobility and overall musculoskeletal health. However, it cautioned that “before any conclusive conclusion can be made, further research is required due to the generally poor quality of studies.” This serves as a reminder that while findings are promising, robust studies are necessary to confirm these benefits. 4. Heart Health Blood vessels are composed of more than 50% collagen . It is believed that taking a daily collagen supplement may help reduce the stiffening of arteries, known as atherosclerosis, which contributes to heart disease. Maintaining healthy blood vessels is essential for overall cardiovascular health, making collagen supplementation an area of interest. According to a 2017 study from Japan, taking a twice-daily dose of a collagen supplement for six months in healthy individuals may significantly reduce the risk of arterial stiffness along with improved cholesterol values. These findings suggest that collagen could play a role in heart health by potentially improving vascular function. However, the current research needs to be more comprehensive to adequately support the claims that collagen supplements can prevent or treat heart disease. Studies are currently ongoing to consolidate this stance. 5. Hair Health Your hair is primarily made up of a protein called keratin . Like every other protein, keratin comprises different amino acids, some of which are found in collagen. Collagen supplements may help support healthy hair growth by providing the essential amino acids necessary for collagen synthesis. Subsequently, this increases hair growth and improves hair thickness and density. Moreso, another research showed that collagen might act as an antioxidant to fight off free radicals. Free radicals accumulate in the body as a result of different processes in the body and exposure to several environmental toxins. Understanding the role of collagen in hair health is crucial, as it may provide important building blocks for hair structure and vitality. These free radicals are damaging in nature. They damage cells, tissues, and other organs of the body. In fact, free radicals can also damage hair follicles , resulting in hair loss. Protecting hair follicles from damage caused by free radicals is essential for preventing hair loss and maintaining overall hair health. Acting as an antioxidant, collagen can help fight off free radicals and maintain the integrity of your hair . However, more research will be needed to completely ascertain collagen’s antioxidant properties. While collagen may offer antioxidant benefits, it is important to note that research is ongoing to fully understand its effects on hair integrity. Possible Side Effects Generally, collagen supplements are tolerated by many people. However, it is best to consult a doctor before starting collagen supplements to ensure their safety and effectiveness. For instance, research has shown that supplemental collagen may cause an allergic reaction in some persons. If someone drinks marine collagen and has a shellfish allergy, they may have a severe reaction or anaphylaxis. It is important to be aware of potential allergic reactions to collagen supplements, especially for individuals with shellfish allergies. If you notice symptoms such as swelling in the face, mouth, or throat after taking collagen, call 911 or the number of the nearest emergency department immediately. It's important to seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe allergic reactions, as these can be life-threatening. Other common side effects include: These side effects can vary in severity and may impact individuals differently. Heartburn Heartburn may cause discomfort and a burning sensation in the chest. Nausea Nausea can lead to feelings of unease or discomfort in the stomach. Bloating Bloating refers to a feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen. Indigestion Indigestion can manifest as pain or discomfort in the stomach area. Diarrhea Diarrhea can lead to dehydration if it persists, so monitoring your condition is essential. Moreso, if you have diabetes, ensure you look for brands that don’t contain sugar, as most of the liquid collagens are sweetened and flavored. This is particularly crucial for those managing blood sugar levels, as some ingredients may impact these levels. As said earlier, liquid collagens are produced from different sources, including fish, chicken, sheep, etc. If you have allergies to any of these, ensure you opt for other available options. Allergies to collagen sources can lead to adverse reactions, so it’s essential to consider alternatives if you have sensitivities. This is particularly true for collagen supplements made from fish and shellfish protein , which have been shown to cause nasal congestion, redness, cramping in the stomach, and diarrhea in people with known fish or shellfish allergies. Individuals with allergies to fish or shellfish should be particularly cautious, as these collagen types may trigger uncomfortable symptoms. Hence, it is imperative you speak with a physician before you start taking any supplements. Consulting a physician can help ensure that any supplements you take are safe and appropriate for your health needs. Conclusion Collagen is a necessary protein for the body, and taking collagen supplements is an excellent method to keep collagen levels at their highest. Liquid collagen is one of the best supplements available. They are made from the connective tissues of many animal species. Liquid collagen, according to different studies and reviews, may help improve the quality and integrity of your hair and prevent conditions like osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and atherosclerosis by enhancing the health of your skin, joints, muscles, bones, and heart when used as a dietary supplement. Ulike Welcome to Ulike! We hope our expertise can bring value to you.