Collagen Has Anti-Aging Properties. Here's Why You Need to Add it to Your Diet
Original story by: CNET
Last updated: Oct 22, 2025
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- Context: Collagen is a crucial protein in the human body that declines with age, impacting skin and joint health. This article explores the nature of collagen, its various forms and benefits, and considerations before supplementation. It also highlights the importance of consulting a health professional before making dietary changes.
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- Detailed Summary:
- Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, serving as a building block for muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, and skin, and is essential for healthy joints and connective tissues.
- Naturally produced by the body using amino acids and minerals like zinc, vitamin C, and copper, collagen production decreases with age, leading to skin aging, reduced flexibility, and muscle loss.
- Dietary sources to support collagen production include bone broth, fish, shellfish, chicken, pork skin, eggs, beans, citrus fruits, bell peppers, and nuts.
- Collagen supplements, available as powders and capsules, can be considered if dietary intake is insufficient, with expert advice suggesting consumption an hour before workouts, alongside label checks and doctor consultations.
- Potential benefits of collagen supplementation include stronger bones, reduced joint pain, improved skin elasticity and hydration, promotion of healthy hair, and increased muscle mass, particularly for those with sarcopenia.
- Drawbacks to collagen supplements include their origin from animal products, making them unsuitable for vegans and potentially problematic for those with allergies (e.g., fish, eggs).
- The regulatory oversight for collagen supplements is a concern, as they are classified as food, not drugs, meaning their quality, purity, and safety are not rigorously monitored by governing bodies like the FDA.
- While studies exist on collagen's effectiveness, further research is needed to fully understand its impact and benefits.
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