Nutrition Facts with Dr. Greger

Do Collagen Supplements Work?

12 snips
Oct 24, 2024
Delve into the rising trend of collagen supplements and their questionable benefits for skin aging. Discover the truth about their effectiveness, including the lack of essential amino acids. Explore how aging affects collagen synthesis and learn about dietary sources to boost production. Uncover key ingredients like tomato paste and kale that can enhance collagen naturally, emphasizing the advantages of a plant-based diet for healthy skin. This exploration brings clarity to the allure of collagen supplements versus real food solutions.
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INSIGHT

Collagen Supplements: Trendy but Questionable

  • Collagen supplements are a trendy treatment for aging skin, but their effectiveness is questionable.
  • Collagen, an incomplete protein, breaks down into amino acids during digestion, making direct incorporation into new collagen unlikely.
INSIGHT

Collagen Fragments in Bloodstream

  • Despite initial skepticism, studies show that collagen fragments from consumed gelatin can enter the bloodstream and tissues.
  • However, there's no direct mechanism for these fragments to become new collagen.
INSIGHT

Collagen for Skin: Mixed Results

  • Studies on collagen's skin benefits, often funded by manufacturers, have shown mixed results for skin hydration, elasticity, and roughness.
  • Dermatologists remain skeptical, citing limited evidence compared to proven methods like sunscreen and a healthy diet.
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