Many products contain hydrolyzed collagen, and numerous supplements are available in this category. But what exactly does hydrolyzed collagen do? Collagen is a protein found in all living organisms, including humans, and it forms connective tissues such as skin, tendons, cartilage, organs, and bones. When collagen undergoes hydrolysis, it breaks down into smaller, more easily processed particles. These particles are used in the formulation and design of various therapeutic products, ranging from skin beauty supplements to joint pain relief.
Claims About the Benefits of Collagen
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Joint Pain Relief
Since joint cartilage contains collagen, and joint pain is often linked to collagen loss, it is believed that collagen can help alleviate joint pain. Studies suggest that hydrolyzed collagen may support joint health and reduce pain associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis.
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Support for Osteoporosis Prevention
Research on this topic is still in its early stages. A 2010 study found that hydrolyzed collagen may play a role in osteoporosis prevention and treatment. Another study from 2018 on postmenopausal women indicated that daily supplementation with 5 grams of collagen peptides for one year increased bone mineral density and improved markers of bone formation while reducing bone degradation.
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Reduction of Wrinkles and Skin Aging
Since skin is composed of collagen proteins, the potential therapeutic effects of collagen supplements on skin are logical. The effectiveness of these supplements depends on how collagen is processed and utilized by the body. Some studies have shown that collagen supplements may help reduce certain aging markers in the skin. A 2018 study involving 64 participants found that taking 1 gram of collagen peptides daily for 12 weeks significantly reduced wrinkles while improving skin hydration and elasticity compared to a placebo group. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also approved collagen implants for smoothing wrinkles and treating acne scars.
Safety of Collagen-Based Products
The FDA warns against misleading claims made by supplement manufacturers, as many label claims on dietary supplements require medical approval before consumption. It is essential to carefully read the claims on supplement labels. While cosmetics do not require prior medical approval like pharmaceutical drugs, legal action can be taken against companies that make false claims or mislabel their products. However, always be skeptical of any product that claims to offer magical, instant, or miraculous results.
