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Collagen has become one of the most popular dietary supplements for wellness due to its roles in maintaining healthy skin and joints. It’s a protein found in abundance in human body tissues. Actually, it’s the most abundant protein in the human body, making up about 90% of the total protein in your body, according to the Cleveland Clinic1. 

So it’s no surprise that supplemental forms of collagen have become so popular—and you’re not alone in wondering about the benefits of collagen protein powder. Using extensive research of available scientific literature and my expertise as a certified sports nutrition coach, in this article I explore six benefits that may make collagen a worthwhile addition to your supplement stack.

RELATED: Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Review

What Is Collagen? 

An image of Vital Proteins chocolate collagen

Collagen is a structural protein found abundantly in the human body. It provides structure to connective tissues including ligaments, tendons, skin, muscles, cartilage, and even your blood vessels. Collagen also plays an important role in blood clotting, protecting your vital organs, maintaining skin elasticity, and more.

There are many types of collagen and sources of collagen—researchers have identified 29 distinct types, according to research published in 2022 in the journal Cureus2. Here’s a look at the most common supplemental forms of collagen: 

  • Type I collagen is found in dense connective tissues, including tendons, ligaments, skin, and bones; it’s the most abundant form, making up about 90% of collagen in your body, according to the Cleveland Clinic1.  
  • Type II collagen is essential for joint health, providing structure to elastic cartilages1.
  • Type III collagen is found in arteries, organs, and muscles1.
  • Type IV collagen provides structure to your skin1.
  • Type V collagen is found in some layers of the skin, in the corneas of your eyes, and in hair1. 

Although collagen is a protein high in proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline3, it is not a complete protein, because it lacks the essential amino acid tryptophan. So, you shouldn’t count it toward your daily protein intake unless you are combining it with another protein that’s high in tryptophan, says registered dietitian nutritionist Sydney Lappe.

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Health Benefits of Collagen Protein Powder

An image of Primal Kitchen collagen fuel

Your body naturally begins to produce less collagen as you age, but research around collagen supplementation is promising. It’s important to remember that this is a relatively new area of research and nothing is yet conclusive. 

1. Supports Skin Health

Research4 shows that decreases in collagen production are associated with signs of aging, especially skin aging, including wrinkles and dry skin. As you get older, your body’s collagen levels decline as collagen synthesis slows and existing collagen is broken down at a faster rate. 

Supplemental collagen may help with skin hydration, elasticity, and strength. According to 2019 research in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology5, taking 3 to 10 grams of collagen per day can result in “notable improvement” in skin elasticity and hydration.

Additionally, a 2022 literature review in Dermatology Practical & Conceptual6 found that oral and topical collagen use can “contribute to reducing or delaying skin aging.” 

2. Supports Healthy Joints

Because collagen is so abundant in the tissues that comprise the joints (cartilage, ligaments, and tendons), it should come as no surprise that collagen supplementation is thought to help maintain joint integrity. 

As you age and lose collagen (among other things), your risk of developing conditions like osteoarthritis increases, according to a 2017 report published in Mechanisms of Ageing and Development7.  

An image of Further Foods Collagen Peptides

In a 2019 meta-analysis8 in International Orthopaedics, researchers concluded that collagen supplementation is effective at reducing symptoms associated with osteoarthritis. A 2020 systematic review9 proposed that collagen could reduce joint pain and inflammation in patients with osteoarthritis, although this study did specify that collagen injections into the joints (not oral collagen protein powder) seem to hold the most promise.

3. May Help Maintain Bone Density

In addition to joint health, collagen may play a role in bone health, too. Loss of bone mineral density—clinically termed osteoporosis10—is a significant problem in the aging population, especially in postmenopausal women. 

Some studies, such as a 2016 systematic review11 that looked at studies from 1994 to 2014, have found that collagen supplementation has a positive effect on bone density. 

One notable study12 in postmenopausal women separated participants into two groups: one group took a combination of calcium, vitamin D, and collagen while the other group took a combination of just calcium and vitamin D. At the end of the one-year-long study, the group who took the collagen combo exhibited less bone loss than the other group.

4. Could Help with Muscle Mass

Collagen makes up 1 to 10% of muscle mass dry weight according to various estimations13, with 10 types of collagen being present in muscle tissue. 

RELATED: Best Protein Powder

Bubs Collagen And Travel Packs

Studies show that collagen may play a role in building and maintaining muscle. In a 2015 trial in the British Journal of Nutrition14, 53 male participants with sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss) were split into two groups: a collagen peptide group and a placebo group. Both groups underwent 12 weeks of resistance training. At the end of the study, all 53 participants showed improvement in strength and muscle mass, but the collagen group exhibited significantly higher levels of fat-free mass and strength. 

Remember, though, that collagen is lacking an important essential amino acid: tryptophan. For this reason, we don’t recommend you use collagen as your only protein supplement. All nine essential amino acids are required for muscle protein synthesis, the process by which your body creates new muscle tissue, so a whey protein powder or complete plant protein powder is a better choice. 

5. Might Play a Role in Heart Health

Collagen provides structure to your arteries, which are the blood vessels that carry blood from your heart to the rest of your body. Collagen helps keep your arteries flexible and elastic and low levels of collagen can affect that elasticity, according to research in the journal Vascular Health and Risk Management15. When arteries become stiffer, it increases the risk for atherosclerosis16, or narrowing of the arteries as a result of plaque buildup. 

Some research shows that collagen supplementation can help prevent and treat atherosclerosis. In a 2017 study in the Journal of Atherosclerosis and Thrombosis17, participants took a collagen peptide supplement daily for six months and all subjects showed improvements in atherosclerosis-related biomarkers. However, there was no placebo control for this trial. 

An image of Ancient Nutrition multi collagen powder

According to a 2023 meta-analysis in the British Journal of Nutrition18, collagen supplementation may also have a positive effect on cholesterol and blood pressure, but more research is needed to confirm the effect on all measures of heart health, the authors concluded. 

6. May Support Healthy Hair and Nails

The effects of collagen on hair and nails have not been studied as extensively as the other benefits, but research is promising. A 2017 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology19 concluded that oral collagen supplementation resulted in 12% faster nail growth and a reduced incidence of brittle nails.

In in vitro and animal studies, collagen is shown to have a positive impact on hair growth, according to 2022 research in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences20. This doesn’t necessarily mean the results translate to humans. 

Sources of Collagen

Sydney Lappe, RDN, says in our guide to the best collagen supplements that “Collagen is mostly sourced from animal products that contain connective tissue” and “the collagen source widely dictates its collagen type.”

Collagen-rich foods include:

  • Animal gelatin
  • Bone broth 
  • Skin-on chicken
  • Fish and seafood
  • Eggs

For vegans and vegetarians, eating foods rich in collagen’s precursors—nutrients needed for your body to synthesize collagen—is an option. Such foods include those high in vitamin C, zinc, copper, and the amino acids proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline, including: 

  • Citrus and tropical fruits 
  • Berries 
  • Beans and legumes 
  • Dairy products
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Whole grains

Best Collagen Supplements

Best Collagen Supplements

If you find that you’re unable to get enough collagen protein or collagen-boosting foods from your diet alone, collagen peptide supplementation is another way to increase your daily intake. Such supplements are available as hydrolyzed collagen powders, liquid collagen, and collagen capsules. With powders, you can make smoothies or mix it into your coffee for a less noticeable taste. 

Our team of product testers has extensively researched and analyzed oral collagen supplements for taste, texture, nutritional profile, third-party testing, and more. After testing about 30 collagen products, our testers decided on the following 15 as the best collagen supplements. 

Benefits of Collagen Protein Powder: Final Thoughts 

Collagen can potentially impart several benefits on human health, but more research is needed on the benefits of collagen supplements to make definitive statements. However, no evidence suggests collagen supplements are harmful, so they could be a worthy addition to your supplement regimen. 

Unfortunately, collagen supplements are not suitable for individuals who follow vegan diets nor those who have allergies to eggs, fish, or shellfish, depending on the origin of the collagen. 

Remember that collagen supplements are just that—supplements. They are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or any other regulatory agency, so be sure to do thorough research on any product you are interested in taking. Additionally, if you take prescription medications, are pregnant or nursing, or are managing a health condition, talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplements.

Benefits of Collagen Protein Powder: FAQs

Does collagen help with weight loss?

No, collagen is not a weight loss supplement. Since collagen is a protein, it may help you feel fuller and more satisfied, thus preventing cravings and snackings. However, on its own, it won’t result in weight loss—a calorie deficit achieved via diet and exercise is the only way to lose weight.

Does collagen improve gut health?

Online murmurings suggest that collagen is a helpful supplement for digestive symptoms, but as of this writing, there is not a robust scientific backing to support this claim. Most studies showing a link between collagen supplementation and gut health were performed on animals or in vitro, which means the studies took place in a test tube or culture dish. 

One 2022 study21 found that healthy women who took 20 grams of collagen a day for eight weeks experienced a reduction in digestive symptoms like bloating. However, this was not a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, and results were self-reported by the participants, so it’s impossible to draw any definitive conclusions.

What are the side effects of collagen?

Reported side effects of collagen are rare and minor, with bloating and nausea being the most common. However, a 2022 literature review in the journal Dermatology Practical & Conceptual6 investigated side effects and concluded, “Generally, no adverse effects of oral and topical collagen have been observed.”

How many grams of collagen to take a day? 

There are no official collagen dosing guidelines from any authorities in health, fitness, and nutrition. According to a 2019 meta-analysis22 in the journal Nutrients, an effective and safe dose of collagen is 2.5 to 15 grams per day, depending on the benefit you’re looking for. For example, researchers believe that less is needed if nail or hair health is your primary outcome goal, while more is needed if bone loss prevention or muscle mass retention is your goal.

References

  1. Cleveland Clinic. Collagen. 
  2. Shenoy M, Abdul NS, Qamar Z, Bahri BMA, Al Ghalayini KZK, Kakti A. Collagen Structure, Synthesis, and Its Applications: A Systematic Review. Cureus. 2022;14(5):e24856. Published 2022 May 9. doi:10.7759/cureus.24856
  3. Gauza-Włodarczyk M, Kubisz L, Włodarczyk D. Amino acid composition in determination of collagen origin and assessment of physical factors effects. Int J Biol Macromol. 2017;104(Pt A):987-991. doi:10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2017.07.013
  4. Quan T, Fisher GJ. Role of Age-Associated Alterations of the Dermal Extracellular Matrix Microenvironment in Human Skin Aging: A Mini-Review. Gerontology. 2015;61(5):427-434. doi:10.1159/000371708
  5. Choi FD, Sung CT, Juhasz ML, Mesinkovsk NA. Oral Collagen Supplementation: A Systematic Review of Dermatological Applications. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019;18(1):9-16.
  6. Al-Atif H. Collagen Supplements for Aging and Wrinkles: A Paradigm Shift in the Fields of Dermatology and Cosmetics. Dermatol Pract Concept. 2022;12(1):e2022018. Published 2022 Jan 1. doi:10.5826/dpc.1201a18
  7. Li YS, Xiao WF, Luo W. Cellular aging towards osteoarthritis. Mech Ageing Dev. 2017;162:80-84. doi:10.1016/j.mad.2016.12.012
  8. García-Coronado JM, Martínez-Olvera L, Elizondo-Omaña RE, et al. Effect of collagen supplementation on osteoarthritis symptoms: a meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials. Int Orthop. 2019;43(3):531-538. doi:10.1007/s00264-018-4211-5
  9. Honvo, G., Lengelé, L., Charles, A. et al. Role of Collagen Derivatives in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage Repair: A Systematic Scoping Review With Evidence Mapping. Rheumatol Ther 7, 703–740 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40744-020-00240-5
  10. Föger-Samwald U, Dovjak P, Azizi-Semrad U, Kerschan-Schindl K, Pietschmann P. Osteoporosis: Pathophysiology and therapeutic options. EXCLI J. 2020;19:1017-1037. Published 2020 Jul 20. doi:10.17179/excli2020-2591
  11. Porfírio, E., & Fanaro, G. B. (2016). Collagen supplementation as a complementary therapy for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis: a systematic review. In Revista Brasileira de Geriatria e Gerontologia (Vol. 19, Issue 1, pp. 153–164). FapUNIFESP (SciELO). https://doi.org/10.1590/1809-9823.2016.14145
  12. Elam ML, Johnson SA, Hooshmand S, et al. A calcium-collagen chelate dietary supplement attenuates bone loss in postmenopausal women with osteopenia: a randomized controlled trial. J Med Food. 2015;18(3):324-331. doi:10.1089/jmf.2014.0100
  13. Gillies AR, Lieber RL. Structure and function of the skeletal muscle extracellular matrix. Muscle Nerve. 2011;44(3):318-331. doi:10.1002/mus.22094
  14. 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 randomised controlled trial. Br J Nutr. 2015;114(8):1237-1245. doi:10.1017/S0007114515002810
  15. Basu P, Sen U, Tyagi N, Tyagi SC. Blood flow interplays with elastin: collagen and MMP: TIMP ratios to maintain healthy vascular structure and function. Vasc Health Risk Manag. 2010;6:215-228. Published 2010 Apr 15. doi:10.2147/vhrm.s9472
  16. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health. What Is Atherosclerosis?
  17. Tomosugi N, Yamamoto S, Takeuchi M, et al. Effect of Collagen Tripeptide on Atherosclerosis in Healthy Humans. J Atheroscler Thromb. 2017;24(5):530-538. doi:10.5551/jat.36293
  18. Jalili Z, Jalili F, Moradi S, et al. Effects of collagen peptide supplementation on cardiovascular markers: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised, placebo-controlled trials. Br J Nutr. 2023;129(5):779-794. doi:10.1017/S0007114522001301
  19. Hexsel D, Zague V, Schunck M, Siega C, Camozzato FO, Oesser S. Oral supplementation with specific bioactive collagen peptides improves nail growth and reduces symptoms of brittle nails. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2017;16(4):520-526. doi:10.1111/jocd.12393
  20. Hwang SB, Park HJ, Lee BH. Hair-Growth-Promoting Effects of the Fish Collagen Peptide in Human Dermal Papilla Cells and C57BL/6 Mice Modulating Wnt/β-Catenin and BMP Signaling Pathways. Int J Mol Sci. 2022;23(19):11904. Published 2022 Oct 7. doi:10.3390/ijms231911904
  21. Abrahams M, O’Grady R, Prawitt J. Effect of a Daily Collagen Peptide Supplement on Digestive Symptoms in Healthy Women: 2-Phase Mixed Methods Study. JMIR Form Res. 2022;6(5):e36339. Published 2022 May 31. doi:10.2196/36339
  22. Paul C, Leser S, Oesser S. Significant Amounts of Functional Collagen Peptides Can Be Incorporated in the Diet While Maintaining Indispensable Amino Acid Balance. Nutrients. 2019;11(5):1079. Published 2019 May 15. doi:10.3390/nu11051079
Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC-snapshot

Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC

Amanda is a content writer and journalist with extensive experience in the health, fitness, lifestyle, and nutrition niches. Before joining Garage Gym Reviews, she worked as an independent writer for various brands and outlets.Her work has appeared in national and global digital publications, including Health.com and Shape.com (Meredith Corporation), CNET (Red Ventures, formerly ViacomCBS), LIVESTRONG (Leaf Group), Verywell Fit and The Balance (DotDash), SlickDeals (Goldman Sachs/Hearst), Health Journal, and more.Now, Amanda brings her expertise in fitness to the GGR team by testing equipment and writing authentic, honest reviews on everything you might need to stock your home gym.

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Collagen has become one of the most popular dietary supplements for wellness due to its roles in maintaining healthy skin and joints. It’s a protein found in abundance in human body tissues. Actually, it’s the most abundant protein in the human body, making up about 90% of the total protein in your body, according to the Cleveland Clinic1. So it’s no surprise that supplemental forms of collagen have become so popular—and you’re not alone in wondering about the benefits of collagen protein powder.  » Read more about: Benefits of Collagen Protein Powder: 6 Reasons to Try It Out  » Read more