Collagen for skin and joint health

Collagen is a key protein that supports skin elasticity and joint health. There’s been growing research regarding the benefits of collagen for skin health, but more recent research has been conducted on the benefits for joint function. Here is what GPs need to know about the latest research.

Collagen for skin health: Hydration and elasticity

Collagen plays a major role in maintaining skin health, but its natural production declines with age, contributing to wrinkles and dryness. With growing public interest in collagen peptide supplements, does the science support the hype?

Two meta-analyses published in 2023 on collagen and skin health found consistent results that hydrolyzed collagen supplementations significantly improved skin hydration and elasticity across almost all studies. This research reinforces the effectiveness of collagen supplementation in improving skin hydration and elasticity [1,2].

Collagen for joint health: Reducing pain and supporting cartilage

Collagen is also essential for joint health, particularly for those suffering from osteoarthritis as the condition is characterised by the breakdown in cartilage. The breakdown of collagen in cartilage contributes to joint pain and stiffness, so collagen supplements can support recovery and reduce inflammation.

A review published in 2023 focused on collagen’s effects on osteoarthritis. While the studies examined had large variability in study design, dosage, and minimum treatment periods, the review found that all studies reported improvements in symptoms, including joint function, pain relief, and overall quality of life [3]. This suggests that collagen supplementation is a promising option for managing joint pain and supporting cartilage health.

What does this mean for patients?

For skin health, collagen supplements are a non-invasive, safe way to improve elasticity, hydration, and reduce wrinkles. Collagen supplementation can help combat the effects of aging on the skin. Research on collagen supplementation for joint health is expanding, with promising evidence that it may be beneficial for those with osteoarthritis in helping to improve mobility and ease joint pain.

Collagen continues to show promising results for both skin and joint health, supported by ongoing research. For general practitioners, staying informed on the latest evidence can help them guide patients effectively in choosing collagen supplements that align with their health goals.

– Sarah Marko, Accredited Practising Dietitian

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References

[1] Dewi DAR, Arimuko A, Norawati L, Yenny SW, Setiasih NL, Perdiyana A, Arkania N, Nadhira F, Wiliantari N. Exploring the Impact of Hydrolyzed Collagen Oral Supplementation on Skin Rejuvenation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cureus. 2023 Dec 9;15(12):e50231. doi: 10.7759/cureus.50231. PMID: 38192916; PMCID: PMC10773595.

[2] Pu SY, Huang YL, Pu CM, Kang YN, Hoang KD, Chen KH, Chen C. Effects of Oral Collagen for Skin Anti-Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2023 Apr 26;15(9):2080. doi: 10.3390/nu15092080. PMID: 37432180; PMCID: PMC10180699.

[3] Martínez-Puig D, Costa-Larrión E, Rubio-Rodríguez N, Gálvez-Martín P. Collagen Supplementation for Joint Health: The Link between Composition and Scientific Knowledge. Nutrients. 2023 Mar 8;15(6):1332. doi: 10.3390/nu15061332. PMID: 36986062; PMCID: PMC10058045.