Collagen, the most abundant protein in the body, is found in skin, bones, ligaments, cartilage, teeth and muscles. Collagen also gives support, bulk and shape to organs such as the heart, liver and kidneys. Daily wear and tear, sun exposure and free radical damage can reduce the production of collagen. Research has shown that collagen supplements might be helpful for some health conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. A health care professional always should be consulted before taking a collagen powder drink.
Types of Collagen
Collagen consists of three protein chains bound together in a triple helix, and amino acids form together in a special sequence to make the helix stable. There are many types of collagen, but the most common are type 1, found in the skin, teeth, bone, ligaments and tendons; type 2, found in cartilage; type 3, which gives shape to organs, such as the liver, heart and kidneys; and type 4, found in the blood vessels of muscles and in the eye.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is caused when wear and tear break down the cartilage in a joint. A reduction of cartilage means bone rubs on bone, causing pain, swelling and inflammation.
In a study published in a 2006 issue of "Current Medical Research and Opinion," researchers found that collagen supplements taken orally accumulate in the cartilage and help to reduce the pain and increase mobility in patients with osteoarthritis.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease, occurs when the immune system attacks the body's own tissues. Damage occurs to the lining of the joints, causing pain, inflammation and tender and swollen joints.
In a study published in a 1993 issue of "Science," researchers found that taking a collagen powder drink daily for three months reduced the number of swollen and tender joints in patients with severe rheumatoid arthritis.
Skin Flexibility
According to MayoClinic.com, exposure to sunlight can cause the skin to lose its flexibility and strength, leading to wrinkles.
In a study published in a 2000 issue of the "Journal of New Remedies & Clinics," researchers studied the effect of collagen on the elastic properties of facial skin. The team found that taking a collagen drink that contains 5 g of collagen powder for five weeks significantly increased the flexibility of skin.
References
- "Current Medical Research and Opinion": Collagen hydrolysate for the treatment of osteoarthritis and other joint disorders: a review of the literature: Bello AE, Oesser S: 2006
- "Science": Effects of oral administration of type II collagen on rheumatoid arthritis: Trentham DE, Dynesius-Trentham RA, Orav EJ, et al: 1993
- MayoClinic.com: Winkles
- "Journal of New Remedies & Clinics":Effect of the Collagen Peptide Drinks on the Elastic Properties of Facial Skin in Normal Volunteers: HAYAMIZU KOSUKE TERAYAMA TAKAKO, KAJIWARA NOBUKO: 2000
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