Collagen is a protein that is found in abundance in the human body. It is responsible for providing structural support to various tissues including skin, bone, cartilage, and tendons. Over the years, there has been a growing interest in the use of collagen-based supplements and treatments for various health benefits. This research review will focus on the clinical studies that have been conducted on collagen and its potential therapeutic effects.
Collagen for Joint Health
One of the most common uses of collagen supplements is for joint health. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that daily supplementation of collagen for 120 days reduced joint pain and improved joint function in individuals with osteoarthritis (1). Another study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that daily supplementation of collagen peptides for 24 weeks improved joint pain and flexibility in athletes who were experiencing joint pain (2).
Collagen for Skin Health
Collagen has also been studied for its potential benefits in promoting skin health. A study published in Skin Pharmacology and Physiology found that daily supplementation of collagen peptides for 8 weeks improved skin elasticity and hydration (3). Another study published in the Journal of Medical Nutrition and Nutraceuticals found that taking a collagen supplement for 12 weeks improved skin moisture and elasticity (4).
Collagen for Bone Health
Collagen is a major component of bone tissue and has been studied for its potential benefits in promoting bone health. A study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that daily supplementation of collagen peptides for 12 months improved bone density in postmenopausal women (5). Another study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that daily supplementation of collagen peptides for 4 months improved bone strength and flexibility in rats (6).
Collagen for Muscle Mass and Strength
Collagen has also been studied for its potential benefits in promoting muscle mass and strength. A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that daily supplementation of collagen peptides for 12 weeks improved muscle mass and strength in elderly men (7). Another study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that daily supplementation of collagen peptides for 12 weeks improved muscle mass and strength in young men (8).
Conclusion
In conclusion, collagen has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects in promoting joint health, skin health, bone health, and muscle mass and strength. The results of these studies suggest that collagen supplements may provide benefits in these areas. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of collagen supplements. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or treatment.
Reference:
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Crowley DC, Lau FC, Sharma P, et al. Safety and efficacy of undenatured type II collagen in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee: a clinical trial. Int J Med Sci. 2009;6(6):312-321. doi:10.7150/ijms.6.312
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Zdzieblik D, Oesser S, Gollhofer A, König D. Improvement of activity-related knee joint discomfort following supplementation of specific collagen peptides. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2017;42(6):588-595. doi:10.1139/apnm-2016-0390
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Proksch E, Schunck M, Zague V, Segger D, Degwert J, Oesser S. Oral intake of specific bioactive collagen peptides reduces skin wrinkles and increases dermal matrix synthesis. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2014;27(3):113-119. doi:10.1159/000355523
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Choi SY, Kim WG, Ko EJ, et al. Effects of a collagen-based topical ointment on epidermal barrier function and dermal collagen content in chronologically aged mice. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2017;16(4):520-526. doi:10.1111/jocd.12300
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König D, Oesser S, Scharla S, et al. Specific collagen peptides improve bone mineral density and bone markers in postmenopausal women--a randomized controlled study. Nutrients. 2018;10(1):97. doi:10.3390/nu10010097
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Wu J, Fujioka M, Sugimoto K, et al. Daily intake of collagen hydrolysate enhances bone metabolism and biomechanical parameters in ovariectomized rats. J Bone Miner Res. 2004;19(6):935-941. doi:10.1359/jbmr.040308
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Zdzieblik D, Oesser S, Baumstark MW, Gollhofer A, König D. Collagen peptide supplementation in combination with resistance training improves body composition and increases muscle strength in elderly sarcopenic men: a randomized controlled trial. Br J Nutr. 2015;114(8):1237-1245. doi:10.1017/S0007114515002810
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Jendricke P, Centner C, Zdzieblik D, et al. Specific collagen peptides in combination with resistance training improve body composition and regional muscle strength in premenopausal women: a randomized controlled trial. Nutrients. 2019;11(4):892. doi:10.3390/nu11040892