Buying Guide for Collagen Supplements

Our bodies naturally produce collagen which is a protein that helps maintain the elasticity of skin, tissues, structure of bone, cartilage, and muscle. As we age, the production of collagen in our body decreases significantly. The natural levels of collagen may also be reduced due to several environmental factors and stressors like sun damage and high sugar diets. Collagen supplements are digestible forms of collagen, usually available in a powdered form. These are often referred to as hydrolyzed collagen (collagen hydrolysate, collagen peptides, collagen powder, hydrolyzed gelatin) or gelatin.

Who Should Take Collagen?

If you notice that your skin isn’t as supple as it was a few years back, you have wrinkles and you experience joint pain, stiffness, and pain in muscles, your collagen levels have likely gone down over time with age. It is true that the body is able to produce collagen internally and you do not need a collagen supplement if you have a well-balanced diet and consume adequate protein daily. However, with age, your body starts showing signs of collagen deficiency and demands collagen from external sources. This is when you can take collagen supplements to support your health. Here are some of the cases when a collagen supplement seems essential:

1. If you are a vegetarian or vegan, you may not be having enough protein in your diet, hence taking collagen supplements is a good idea.
2. It is also beneficial for older adults as the quantity and quality of collagen produced by the body drastically declines with age. People in their 30s and 40s can take collagen supplements to reduce the rate of collagen decline. 
3. Collagen supplements are also helpful for individuals who are exposed to the UV rays from the sun. This causes oxidative damage and hampers collagen production. Taking supplements will help increase cellular repair and collagen turnover.
4. Smoking is linked with many diseases, including cancer and high blood pressure. Collagen supplement is also recommended for smokers. 
5. Collagen supplements are required by people suffering from certain autoimmune diseases.
6. It is also important for people who have osteoporosis because collagen supplements may help increase bone density. 

When to Take Collagen Supplements?

The time when you should take collagen supplements largely depends on why you are taking them. If you have gas or gut issues, you should ideally take these supplements in the morning, maybe mix with your cup of coffee or smoothies. At night, you can take the collagen supplement with a glass of milk to have a good sleep. It is best to consult your physician or nutritionist and do what suits you. No matter when you take the supplement, it can boost your health.  

Who Should Not Take Collagen Supplements?

1. You should not take collagen supplements if you experience excessive bloating or heaviness in the stomach that doesn’t get better sometime after having a supplement.
2. If you have any food allergy, avoid taking collagen supplements as some of these are made from seafood or eggs. 

Collagen Dosage Recommended by Experts

The collagen dosage you should take per day depends on which form you are taking and the reason you are taking it. 

Side Effects of Collagen Supplements

The side effects of collagen may appear if the supplements are not taken in moderation or with caution. Some of these include:

1. Collagen supplements leave a bad taste in your mouth. These are made from marine or cow sources and have an unpleasant taste and odour.
2. It may trigger an allergic reaction, causing itching in the mouth, swelling of the lips, face or other parts of the body, trouble breathing, vomiting, etc.
3. If you take collagen higher than the recommended dosage, it may cause diarrhoea and constipation. 
4. Some people will feel bloating or heaviness in their stomach.
5. These supplements may interact poorly with certain medications. Always inform your doctor if you experience any digestive problems when it comes to collagen supplements and if you are taking any other medication.

Conclusion

Collagen supplements have innumerable health benefits. They boost skin hydration, support scalp and hair health, gut health, joint, muscle and bone health. Remember that when you are taking these supplements, you must pick only the ones with high quality, go through its ingredients carefully, and take them consistently to see positive results. Consult a doctor before taking collagen supplements, inform them if you have any health condition, or you are pregnant or breastfeeding.