Is Taking Collagen the Beauty Secret We All Need?

How much time and money do you take each day looking for anything that will help with your skin, hair, nails, and possibly weight loss?  Experts say that taking collagen can make a big difference.

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Collagen supplements are associated with several health benefits and very few known side effects or risks. Supplements or using the powders mixed in your favorite drinks may increase muscle mass, prevent bone loss, relieve joint pain, and improve skin health by reducing wrinkles and dryness. Sign me up!

While other benefits may exist, most claims about weight loss, gut health, and brain health aren’t backed by research. Although many food products do contain collagen, it’s unknown whether these foods offer the same benefits as supplements. Here are a list of foods that are naturally rich in collagen:

• Jello
• bone broth
• chicken skin
• pork skin
• beef
• fish

Collagen can be found in or derived from most animal products. But in order for the magic to occur you must take vitamin C. Vitamin C is crucial for collagen synthesis. There are many foods chock full of natural vitamin C, like citrus fruits, broccoli, strawberries, and many others.

Most folks use collagen powder and add it to their favorite beverage first thing in the morning.  You can buy both flavored and unflavored powder.  My favorite is lemon lime in a bottle of water each morning.  We all need lots of water and this is a great way to get both.

While they say more research is needed to support collagen’s effect on hair, people report that taking collagen may assist in hair growth and help avoid breaking as easily.

Taking collagen may also help with the strength and length of your nails.