We all want to do the right things to stay fit and healthy – but how can we avoid the ‘magic beans’ offered by those trying to cash in?
With new wellness trends emerging by the moment, it can be tricky to stay up to date on what’s what. Many of us are now choosing to supplement our diets with nutrients that we may not get elsewhere.
There seems to something new we should add to our morning shake each week!
If you’re aware of this growing supplement trend, you’ve probably come across collagen supplements. But do they work and are they worth your money?
The Gym Las Vegas has your back! Here’s what you need to know about the latest health must-have.
1. What Is Collagen?
Collagen is the main component in our connective tissues. Our bones, teeth, skin, cartilage, tendons are all comprised of collagen. Its main purpose is to keep our tissues to retain elasticity and withstand stretching.
There are two main types of collagen. Type I is the most common type in the body and is necessary for healthy skin, hair, nails and more. Type II preserves joint function and protects them against damage.
2. Why Take Collagen Supplements?
Our collagen levels decline as we age – meaning that the connective tissues in the body are less able to ‘bounce back’. This can lead to joint pain and visible signs of aging.
Although collagen can be found in the diet by eating red meats and fish, many of us don’t eat enough of these to get the right amount. Supplements enable us to reliably get the correct dose without compromising our eating habits.
3. Ok – but Do They Work?
We all experience joint pain at different times whether through exercise, injury or aging. Joint pain often occurs when your immune system attacks the healthy collagen in your joints.
Taking Type II collagen supplements can stop your body from breaking down joint collagen. It teaches your body to recognize its own collagen as a beneficial substance and stops attacking it. This is distinct from the benefits of other supplements, as it actually prevents damage rather than just treating it.
4. What About Type I? I Want to Look Youthful Too!
Collagen has been an ingredient in anti-aging creams for some time – but now we’re encouraged to take supplements to retain our skin, hair and nail health. Some wellness gurus swear by them and others are less convinced.
There is some evidence that some collagen peptide supplements can reduce signs of aging. Other scientists insist that this type of collagen is absorbed in the gut and would make no difference to skin, hair, and nails.
5. There Are a Lot of Options out There – Which Ones Do I Need?
Undenatured Type II collagen is the only kind of collagen supplement that’s shown to reduce joint pain. In this type of collagen, the proteins haven’t been modified or broken down in the production process.
This is the more natural form and is more likely to produce beneficial results.
The Bottom Line
There’s a good chance that taking undenatured Type II collagen supplements will reduce joint pain and prevent damage. If protecting joints is one of your health goals then it may be worth a try.
The jury is still out on Type I collagen’s beauty benefits. If looking better is something you’re looking to achieve try our dedicated class.
For more information contact The Gym Las Vegas today!
