What Are Collagen Gummy Bears?
Collagen gummy bears are a popular supplement that combine the benefits of collagen and the convenience of a gummy vitamin. As their name suggests, collagen gummies have collagen added as one of their main ingredients.
Collagen is a protein that acts as a building block for bones, skin, hair, nails, and connective tissues in the body. It's also the most abundant protein in mammals, making up about 30% of all protein in the human body.
By taking a collagen supplement like gummies, people aim to improve collagen production and enjoy benefits like:
- Reduced joint pain and arthritis symptoms
- Healthier hair, skin, and nails
- Increased bone strength
- Improved skin elasticity and hydration
- Muscle growth and athletic performance
Sources of Collagen in Gummies
The type of collagen used in gummy supplements can come from several sources:
- Bovine (Cow or Beef): One of the most common sources due to high availability. However, bovine collagen lacks some amino acids found in human collagen.
- Marine (Fish): Derived from fish skin, scales or bones. Considered easily absorbed option but not suitable for vegetarians/vegans.
- Eggshell Membrane: Sourced from eggshells, rich in collagen types I and V used in connective tissues.
- Chicken: Contains collagen types I and III, can be well tolerated. Often used for joint and gut health.
Common Added Ingredients
In addition to collagen, collagen gummies often contain:
- Vitamin C: Helps production of collagen. Also aids collagen absorption.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Improves hydration and may ease joint pain.
- Biotin: Supports hair, skin and nail health.
- Vitamin E: Protects against skin damage and supports moisture.
These added nutrients work synergistically with collagen to enhance potential benefits.
Potential Benefits of Taking Collagen Gummy Bears
Here are some of the top evidence-based wellness benefits offered by collagen gummy supplements:
1. Anti-Aging for Skin
One of the most popular uses of collagen gummies is helping skin look more youthful. As we age, collagen production begins dropping leading to common issues like:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Loss of elasticity
- Thin, easily damaged skin
Research shows supplements can counteract these effects by enhancing collagen density and fibroblast production in skin cells.
2. Joint Support
Collagen makes up a large portion of connective tissues cushioning joints throughout the body. Consuming more collagen may relieve joint discomfort by:
- Rebuilding the collagen matrix in cartilage and tendons
- Improving flexibility and mobility
- Reducing inflammation that causes pain
Multiple studies demonstrate collagen's potential for reducing symptoms of osteoarthritis and athletic joint injuries when taken steadily.
3. Injury Recovery
Because collagen makes up such a high percentage of lean tissue mass, supplements can optimize healing after injuries. Collagen peptides provide amino acids needed to regenerate connective tissues in the early stages of injury repair.
Athletes supplementing with collagen following intense workouts or injuries often report improvements in areas like:
- Faster muscle recovery
- Decreased joint pain
- Reduced muscle soreness
More rapid recovery enables you to resume exercise sooner while minimizing aches and pains.
4. Gut Health
Collagen plays a vital role in digestive system health as well. It helps strengthen the protective lining of the GI tract to prevent issues like permeability, leaky gut syndrome and food sensitivities.
Additionally, the glycine in collagen has been found to reduce inflammation in the gut lining while improving motility and easing symptoms if you have IBS or Crohn’s disease.
5. Heart Health
The amino acids in collagen gummies promote cardiovascular wellness in several unique ways. Glycine has been shown to help lower blood pressure and bad LDL cholesterol.
Collagen can also boost levels of other peptides that protect against plaque formation in arteries. Over time, this may lower your risk of heart disease.
6. Better Sleep
Collagen helps the body produce higher levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. These brain chemicals enable deeper, more restful sleep.
The glycine in collagen acts directly on receptors in the brain that regulate your sleep/wake cycle. Multiple studies confirm glycine supplements decrease fatigue and daytime sleepiness for improved wellbeing.
7. Stronger Hair & Nails
As structural proteins, keratin and collagen work together to build healthy hair and nails from within. Getting more collagen can lead to improvements like:
- Reduced hair loss and thinning
- Faster hair growth
- Less brittle nails
Over 3-6 months, women supplementing collagen experienced significant increases in hair growth and nail thickness.
8. Oral Health
Collagen may also benefit teeth and gums. The peptides bind to cells called fibroblasts that make up gums and the periodontal ligament anchoring each tooth.
This may strengthen resistance to bacteria leading to healthier gums and fewer cavities according to emerging research.
9. Weight Loss
As an abundant protein, collagen can satisfy hunger to help you eat less naturally. The rich amino acid content also builds calorie-burning lean muscle mass to boost metabolic rate.
Human studies found daily collagen intake increased feelings of fullness compared to placebo, making it easier to lose excess body fat.
10. Reduced Cellulite
Cellulite forms due to weakened dermal collagen structure allowing fat cells to push through connective tissues. Collagen may improve skin dimpling and the appearance of cellulite by:
- Strengthening the dermis
- Reducing fat accumulation
- Increasing skin smoothness
Women taking collagen supplements for 6 months showed significantly reduced cellulite and improved skin texture.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects?
The good news is collagen itself has an exceptional safety profile. Published studies spanning decades of research confirm very few side effects even with high daily doses.
As with any supplement though, some people may experience reactions to collagen gummies such as:
- Digestive symptoms: Rarely, some users report bloating, heartburn or diarrhea.
- Allergies: Those with shellfish allergies should avoid marine collagen from fish.
- Taste/texture: Some dislike the natural taste or gelatinous texture.
In some cases, switching to hydrolyzed collagen peptides or trying a different source like bovine or eggshell collagen can help.
Are Collagen Gummies Safe During Pregnancy?
At this time little research exists on collagen supplementation during pregnancy. But as a naturally occurring protein, collagen is likely low risk under medical supervision.
FAQs
What's the difference between collagen gummies and protein gummies?
The main difference is that collagen gummies provide collagen - a structural protein that makes up connective tissues. Regular protein gummies contain amino acids but no collagen. Collagen offers additional benefits for skin, joints, bones rather than just muscle building.
When should you take collagen gummies?
Most experts recommend taking collagen gummies first thing in the morning on an empty stomach or right before bedtime. Taking them consistently every day provides the best results over time.
Can men take collagen gummy supplements too?
Yes, collagen gummies provide similar benefits for men and women. While some benefits are related to natural aging, the peptides also support healthier hair, skin, nails, injuries, gut and heart in both sexes.
How long does it take to see results from collagen gummies?
Research shows it can take 2-3 months of daily use to notice significant improvements. Skin, hair and nails require time to regenerate collagen, but you should feel joint relief faster. Give gummies at least 60-90 days before assessing effectiveness.
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