In recent years, collagen supplements have gained massive popularity in the wellness world. You might have heard friends, influencers, or even doctors talk about it. But are collagen supplements really worth it? Let’s break it down in a simple way so you can decide for yourself.
What is Collagen, and Why Is It Important?
Collagen is a type of protein that plays a key role in keeping your body together. It's like the glue that holds everything in place. It makes up about 30% of your body’s protein, and it’s found in your skin, bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Collagen’s Role in the Body
Collagen keeps your skin firm, supports your joints, and maintains healthy bones and muscles. It’s the stuff that helps your skin look smooth and youthful. If you've ever wondered why babies have such soft, bouncy skin, it's partly because their bodies are packed with collagen!
What Happens to Collagen as I Age?
Unfortunately, as we age, our body’s natural collagen production slows down. You might start to notice wrinkles, sagging skin, or joint pain—these can all be signs of low collagen levels.
Health Effects of Low Collagen
Low collagen levels can lead to several health issues. Your skin might lose its elasticity and start showing wrinkles. You may experience joint pain or stiffness because collagen helps cushion your joints. Your muscles may weaken, and your bones can become brittle, increasing the risk of fractures.
How to Increase Collagen Production in Your Body
Luckily, there are ways to boost collagen production. A balanced diet, rich in vitamin C, zinc, and copper, helps the body produce collagen naturally. Bone broth, chicken skin, fish skin, and egg whites are good natural sources. But you can also use collagen supplements for a convenient boost.
Collagen Supplements
Collagen supplements come in various forms, including powders, pills, and liquids. For example, Benjamin Button offers both topical collagen face masks and oral liquid food supplements in delicious flavours like Mango, Orange and Blackcurrant. These are easy ways to increase your collagen intake and maintain healthy levels.
Is it worth taking Collagen Supplements?
Collagen supplements offer numerous benefits that can improve your overall health and appearance. Let’s take a closer look at some of these perks.
Skin Benefits
Collagen is most well-known for its impact on the skin. Regular collagen supplementation can help reduce wrinkles, improve skin elasticity, and give you a glowing complexion.
Stretch Marks
Collagen also helps prevent and reduce the appearance of stretch marks by improving your skin’s elasticity. If you’re dealing with stretch marks from pregnancy or weight fluctuations, collagen could be a helpful tool in your skincare routine.
Joint Health
As collagen levels decrease, you might start feeling stiffness or pain in your joints. Collagen supplements can help by restoring some of the lost cushioning in your joints. It’s especially useful for people with arthritis or active lifestyles.
Muscle Mass Benefits
Did you know collagen also helps build muscle? Collagen is a component of muscles, so taking supplements may help you retain and even grow muscle mass, particularly if combined with exercise.
Supports Strong Bones
As you get older, your bones may become weaker due to reduced collagen. Collagen supplements can help maintain bone density, which lowers the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
Wound Healing Benefits
Collagen is also essential for wound healing. Your skin and tissues use collagen to repair themselves. This means that collagen supplements can speed up the recovery of cuts, scars, or surgery wounds.
Are Collagen Supplements Safe?
Generally, collagen supplements are considered safe for most people. However, as with anything, it's always best to check with your doctor, especially if you have any medical conditions or allergies.
Who Should Take Collagen?
Collagen supplements can be a great addition to your routine if you’re experiencing signs of ageing, joint pain, or want to improve your skin, hair, or nails.
Who Should Not Take Collagen
While most people can benefit from collagen, it’s not suitable for everyone. People with allergies to fish, eggs, or shellfish should be cautious since some collagen supplements are made from these ingredients. Always read the label before taking any new supplement.
Are Collagen Supplements Vegetarian?
Most collagen supplements are not vegetarian since they are often sourced from animals like cows, fish, or chickens. However, some brands offer plant-based alternatives that mimic collagen’s effects, although they’re technically not the same. Plant-based collagen alternatives instead boost our natural collagen production rather than introducing ready-made collagen into our bodies.
Are Collagen Supplements Halal or Kosher?
For those who follow specific dietary restrictions, it’s essential to check whether your collagen supplement is certified. Benjamin Button supplements, for example, are Halal, but they are not Kosher. Be sure to find a brand that aligns with your dietary needs.
When Should I Take Collagen?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer for the best time to take collagen. Some people prefer taking it in the morning with breakfast, while others add it to their bedtime routine. So, when should you take your collagen supplements? Here are some options to consider:
On an Empty Stomach
Taking collagen first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach, can enhance absorption. If you follow intermittent fasting, try taking it right after your fasting period ends.
Before Bedtime
Taking collagen before bed might be a smart choice, too. Your body repairs and regenerates during sleep, so this timing could help maximise its benefits.
Post-Workout
If you’re an active person, consider taking collagen after your workouts. It can help with muscle recovery and reduce soreness, making it a perfect post-exercise treat.
With Meals (For Sensitive Stomachs)
If you have a sensitive stomach, it’s okay to take collagen with food. Eating helps with the breakdown and absorption of collagen.
Just remember, consistency is key to seeing results. Taking it daily, whether in your coffee, smoothie, or as part of a liquid supplement like Benjamin Button's liquid supplements, is what matters most.
How to Pick the Right Kind of Collagen
When selecting a collagen supplement, make sure to choose one that fits your needs. Some are better for skin, others for joints, and some for overall health. Benjamin Button offers hydrolysed collagen supplements that are designed for maximum effectiveness. They focus on sourcing high-quality ingredients, ensuring that you get the most benefits from your collagen. Many users have reported positive results in skin hydration and elasticity after using their products. Plus, with options available in various flavours—like mango, blackcurrant and orange—you can easily find one that fits seamlessly into your daily routine. Whether you're looking to support your skin, hair, nails, or joints, Benjamin Button's collagen supplements could be a great addition to help you achieve your wellness goals.
FAQs About Collagen
Q: How long does it take to see results from collagen supplements?
A: It can take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks to notice visible results. For skin, many users report improvements in elasticity and hydration within a couple of months.
Q: Can collagen help with hair and nails?
A: Yes! Collagen supplements are known to strengthen hair and nails, making them grow faster and become less brittle.
Q: Is Benjamin Button a good brand for collagen?
A: Definitely! Benjamin Button is well-loved for its high-quality collagen products that cater to various needs. Their Halal certification and delicious liquid supplement flavours make them a top choice for many.
Q: Can collagen help with weight loss?
A: While collagen itself doesn’t directly cause weight loss, it can help you build muscle, which boosts metabolism. Plus, by improving joint health, collagen might make it easier for you to stay active and exercise regularly.
Q: Are there side effects to taking collagen?
A: Most people tolerate collagen well, but some may experience mild digestive issues like bloating. If you have allergies to fish or other animals, check the source of the collagen before consuming.
Conclusion
So, are collagen supplements worth it? If you're looking to improve your skin, strengthen your joints, or support overall body health, collagen supplements can be a fantastic addition to your wellness routine. Whether you choose a topical option like the Benjamin Button face mask or prefer their Mango, Orange or Blackcurrant liquid supplements, there are plenty of options to help you boost your collagen levels naturally. Just remember, patience and consistency are key!
