One of the primary structural components in the human body is collagen – the protein that is majorly found in joints, skin, and bones. Human skin is primarily made of collagen. It ensures that the skin holds its structure, retains its nutrients and moisture and maintains its elasticity and firmness.
Human bodies are self-sufficient and capable of making collagen. It helps repair the skin post all the damage caused by harsh sun, pollution and bad lifestyle habits. Although, this collagen production slows down as one grows old.
This is where collagen powder and supplements swoop in like a hero. While they sure contribute to maintaining healthy skin, some myths are attached to collagen that needs unravelling!
Myth #1: There is no need for collagen supplements in your 20s
Well, that’s untrue. A body produces maximum collagen in early adulthood years. However, this production starts dwindling by one inch towards the mid-twenties.
It is wise to start using collagen peptide supplements as early as possible to slow down the declining collagen production.
It’s easier said than done, though. The early twenties are when a person gets rapidly exposed to harmful modern lifestyle factors like stress, pollution, a high-sugar diet and UV exposure. Spending a maximum number of hours outdoors is likely to impact your skin negatively.
When you hit 35, collagen production decreases even quicker and becomes more prominent after menopause. Men, too, experience deep facial wrinkles and withering face elasticity just like women.
Add to that; the collagen decline shows up in the signs of wear and tear of the collagen-rich tissues. They are evident, like back pain or joint pain. So, if you are physically active, you need to give even more attention to the decline in collagen.
And, well, there is no time like the present to do so!
Myth #2: Collagen supplements are vegetarian
Sorry to all the vegans and vegetarian enthusiasts, this one’s a central myth!
Collagen supplements are primarily non-vegetarian. That said, many companies are actively working with exclusive technologies in hopes of producing vegetarian collagen, but as of now, there are none.
So, when you are picking the right collagen peptide supplements for yourself, check the label. It will mention the source and ingredients.
Myth #3: Collagen supplements are necessary since there is enough collagen in the diet
Even the most well-balanced meal featuring all kinds of meat is likely to lack collagen. Most people try to cut out fat from their diet and hence choose to eat lean cuts and skinless chicken and fish, which contributes to reducing collagen intake.
People who are specifically athletic and active are even more prone to not receiving enough collagen through their diet. It’s due to their high tissue turnover, which impacts their nutritional needs and brings their collagen down.
If you are an athlete searching for healing or therapeutic doses of collagen, the supplements will act as a reliable companion! Make sure to consume only 2.5-15 grams of collagen supplement per day.
Final Words
Collagen powder and supplements are priceless tools to help you achieve your specific health goals. You can begin using these supplements as early as your mid-twenties. Although, if you are a strict vegetarian, you may have to wait for a couple more years to delight in a vegetarian collagen product.
With the correct dose and regular usage, you can enjoy the great benefits of this amazing nutrient!