Collagen Supplementation

The collagen craze has been one of the fastest exploding health trends in the nutrition and cosmetic industries.

So, what is collagen?

According to the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, “collagen is a strong, rope-like molecule that forms stretch-resistant fibres. The most abundant protein in our bodies, collagen accounts for about a quarter of our total protein mass. Among its many functions is giving strength to our tendons, ligaments and bones and providing scaffolding for skin wounds to heal.”

Why the supplement hype?

Over time, the molecules making up our fibres start to break down, and our body produces less collagen. This affects everything – from our skin to muscles, joints, internal organs etc. This is why wrinkles appear, joints start to ache, and so on. Supplementing with collagen can aid in prevention of this breakdown.

What are the different types of collagen?

We have multiple types of collagen, but the main forms are type 1-3. These support tissue in hair, skin, nails, joints, ligaments and muscles.

There are also many types and forms of collagen supplements, however these all principally come from two main sources: animal hides, from cows and chickens, and fish sources, described as “marine collagen.”

Is it worth supplementing collagen?

This is a highly debated topic, as are most subjects concerning supplementation. As collagen supplementation is still a new health trend, not much research has been done on its efficacy.  However, some of the trials that have been completed have shown promising results:

Results of a double-blind scientific study in 2015 concluded that oral supplementation of hydrolysed collagen, hyaluronic acid, alongside essential vitamins and minerals, led to a significant reduction in wrinkle depth as well as improved skin elasticity and hydration. Additional studies have shown that collagen supplementation reduced joint pain in athletes, and knee pain in individuals with osteoarthritis.

Several foods contain collagen, including animal foods and bone broth. However, its absorption is not as efficient as that of hydrolysed collagen.

Are there side effects of collagen supplementation?

As previously discussed, collagen supplements are still very new, therefore, there is a lack of research investigating the on its long-term effects. However, thus far high-quality sourced collagen seems to be a safe supplement with the biggest risk factor being allergy.

What else is collagen used for?

At Opalbond, we primarily focus on supplements, however collagen can be found in nearly everything these days, including many cosmetic products such as creams, face masks, lip masks etc. Although there doesn’t seem to be much research in the area, it is widely suggested that collagen is too big a molecule to be absorbed through the skin, and is therefore not as effective topically compared to consumption.

The bottom line

Collagen supplementation has been associated with a number of health benefits and very few risks. These benefits include, but are not limited to, improved skin health through wrinkle and dryness reduction, as well as increased muscle mass, bone loss prevention, and joint pain relief.

Although several foods contain collagen, it’s unknown whether the collagen in food offers the same benefits as supplements. Therefore, as collagen supplements are generally safe, quite easy to use, and in the case of our gummies, effervescent tablets and healthy snacks – extremely tasty – it is definitely worth giving them a for their potential benefits.

The current formats of collagen supplements that we can offer in private label are gummies, drinking powders and protein bars. If you’re looking to extend your product range to include the latest in collagen product innovation, please get in touch at enquiries@opalbond.co.uk.