Examining the Benefits of Collagen Supplementation
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It provides the infrastructure for connective tissues that hold muscles, organs, bones and skin together.
True Science Liquid Collagen and similar supplements aim to provide specific collagen types that support youthful structure and functioning in aging bodies.
What Does Collagen Do in the Body?
Collagen makes up nearly 30% of all protein within the body. Key roles it performs include:
- Forms connective fibers holding muscles, tissues and organs in place
- Cushions joints and protects bones as a main component of cartilage
- Keeps skin firm, resilient and helps heal wounds
- Seals and heals the intestinal lining to support gut integrity
Why Collagen Production Declines with Age
After reaching peak collagen levels in our 20s, natural production drops approximately 1% yearly. Factors speeding collagen breakdown include:
- Genetic tendencies
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Excess sugar, smoking and sun damage
- Chronic inflammation and stress
- Hormonal changes like menopause
This collagen loss leads to common aging issues like wrinkles, declining muscle mass, weaker bones and joints and digestive problems.
Potential Benefits of Collagen Supplementation
True Science Liquid Collagen contains highly bioavailable collagen peptides and key cofactors tailored to enhance collagen synthesis throughout the body for benefits like:
Smooths Wrinkles and Improves Skin Hydration
Multiple studies confirm ingestible collagen supplements increase skin elasticity, hydration and dermal collagen density for anti-aging effects.
Reduces Joint Discomfort and Injury
Collagen is a major component of cartilage protecting joints. Supplementing collagen promotes cartilage rebuilding to improve flexibility and comfort.
Strengthens Nails, Hair and Teeth
Keratin-rich collagen provides the amino acids needed to build hardy keratin structures like nails, hair and teeth to keep them healthy-looking as you age.
Supports Muscle Mass and Performance
Higher collagen consumption is linked with greater lean muscle mass. Collagen peptides provide amino acid building blocks that help maintain strength and function.
Eases Digestive Discomfort
Collagen helps reinforce a healthy intestinal barrier and reduce inflammation to alleviate issues like leaky gut affecting digestion.
Key Ingredients in True Science Liquid Collagen
True Science contains highly absorbable ingredients specially formulated to boost collagen production:
Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides
Pre-broken down collagen peptides from sources like fish and eggs are up to 10 times more bioavailable so the body readily uses them.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps stimulate new collagen formation and is essential for amino acid conversion during collagen synthesis.
Biotin
This B vitamin is required for amino acid metabolism to maximize incorporation of collagen building blocks into tissues like skin and cartilage.
Hyaluronic Acid
This compound found naturally in skin attracts moisture for added hydration, supports joint shock absorption and transports collagen components.
Antioxidants
Agents like resveratrol combat free radicals to help slow collagen breakdown from oxidative damage that accumulates with aging.
Comparing Collagen Supplement Types
Collagen supplements are available in various forms, with factors like source, delivery method and digestibility impacting effectiveness.
Marine Collagen from Fish
Sourced from the scales or skin of fish like cod, tilapia or salmon. Benefits joint and skin health with highly bioavailable smaller peptides.
Bovine Collagen from Cows
Derived from cow bones or hides. Lower cost but less absorbable. Best for joint support due to type II collagen content.
Egg Shell Collagen
Obtained from egg shell membranes without harming embryo. Rich source of skin and connective tissue boosting type I and V collagen.
Liquid Collagen vs Powders
Pre-broken down hydrolyzed liquid formulas offer up to 10 times higher collagen absorption over regular powders for better results.
Dosage Considerations for Collagen
Clinical studies finding benefits use dosing between 2.5-10 grams daily for 3-6 months. True Science liquid collagen provides a 6 gram clinically-studied dose in each serving.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Collagen itself has no known safety issues even at high doses beyond what is obtainable through diet. As a natural structural protein, excess is simply excreted.
The most common side effect is mild digestive upset in sensitive individuals that often resolves quickly with continued use.
How Long Does It Take to Notice Effects?
Small improvements may occur in as little as 3-4 weeks. But allow 2-3 months to build sufficient collagen stores for more dramatic enhancements in skin quality, mobility or joint comfort.
When Should I Take Collagen?
Experts recommend taking liquid collagen supplements on an empty stomach 30-60 minutes before eating for optimal absorption.
Consuming it along with vitamin C rich foods further boosts results. Taking it consistently is key - effects taper off within 1-2 months after stopping.
Should I Use Collagen Long Term?
Maintaining consistent higher collagen levels is recommended for lasting effects. After experiencing desired improvements to skin, hair, nails or joints, a lower maintenance dose can help sustain benefits.
Periodic "collagen booster" durations of higher dosing may further enhance outcomes as aging progresses and collagen production continues declining.
Is Collagen Safe Long Term?
Thus far research has not uncovered any negative health impacts with long term use of natural collagen protein obtained through food or supplements.
As high quality properly sourced collagen has no known toxicity or interactions, ongoing use under professional guidance is considered safe.
The Future of Collagen Supplements
The collagen market is estimated to reach $7.5 billion by 2028 due growing consumer awareness of collagen's anti-aging and tissue support benefits.
As high traffic food proteins, advanced purification processes ensure purity and avoid cross-contamination risks associated with some lower quality products.
With innovations in hydrolyzation, delivery systems and synergistic ingredient formulations, quality and results from supplements like True Science liquid collagen continue advancing.
FAQs
What are the main benefits of collagen supplements?
Research shows collagen can smooth wrinkles, strengthen nails/hair, ease joint discomfort, support muscle mass, and improve digestion as we age.
When during the day should I take liquid collagen?
For best absorption, drink liquid collagen on an empty stomach 30-60 minutes before eating solid food.
Do I need to take collagen long term?
Ongoing daily use is recommended for lasting benefits. Effects may fade 1-2 months after stopping. Lower maintenance doses can help sustain improvements.
Are there any side effects?
High quality collagen supplements are well-tolerated with little to no risk of side effects in most healthy adults beyond possibly mild digestive upset.
How long before I see results?
Allow 2-3 months for collagen levels to build sufficiently in order to notice significant changes. Some minor improvements may occur from 3-4 weeks onward.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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