What are the Benefits of Taking Bovine Collagen?

Collagen: The Protein Hero in Your Diet and Why You May Need It

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, making up about one-third of its total protein content. It acts like the glue that holds everything together, providing structure to various body parts. But what exactly is collagen, and why might you consider supplementing it? Let's break down the details with a dash of humour and some good old evidence-based insights.

There are four main types of collagen in the body:

• Type I: The heavyweight champ, making up about 90% of your body’s collagen. It provides structure to skin, bones, tendons, and teeth.
• Type II: Found in elastic cartilage and helps cushion the joints.
• Type III: Provides structural support to muscles, organs, and arteries.
• Type IV: Helps with filtration and is found in the skin's layers.

While we produce collagen naturally, our levels begin to decline around the age of 30. This drop may result in signs of ageing such as less elastic skin, thinner hair, brittle nails, and joint stiffness. Factors such as stress, poor diet, and exposure to toxins can also accelerate collagen loss. Supplementing with high-quality collagen may help offset some of these effects and support overall health.

Collagen from bovine sources closely resembles the collagen found in our bodies. Types I and III collagen contain key amino acids like glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, which play vital roles in maintaining skin elasticity, supporting muscle and joint health, and aiding in tissue repair. Research suggests that these amino acids may contribute to the health of the gut lining and immune responses.

1. May Improve Sleep Quality Glycine, the most abundant amino acid in collagen, is linked to improved sleep. Studies have indicated that taking glycine before bed may enhance sleep quality and reduce next-day fatigue.
   Glycine may also help regulate core body temperature, a factor associated with better sleep.
2. Supports Gut Health A diet high in processed foods and stress can compromise the intestinal lining, potentially leading to "leaky gut," where particles pass into the bloodstream and trigger inflammation. Collagen may help maintain the gut lining and support those with digestive issues like IBS. The amino acids in collagen, particularly glycine and proline, are key components of gut tissue and may promote gut barrier integrity.
3. Joint Health and Osteoarthritis Support Collagen is naturally present in cartilage and joints. Supplementing with collagen may help manage joint discomfort associated with osteoarthritis by supporting cartilage health. A study published in Rheumatology and Therapy suggested that collagen supplementation may help reduce joint pain in individuals with osteoarthritis.
4. Skin Health and Anti-Ageing Collagen makes up about 70% of the skin. Supplementing with collagen may improve skin elasticity, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and promote a more youthful appearance. Research has shown that collagen supplements may improve skin hydration and elasticity, contributing to smoother skin.
5. Muscle Support and Recovery As protein is a key building block for muscles, collagen supplements may support muscle mass and aid recovery after exercise. Pairing collagen with strength training may boost muscle growth and fat loss.

Collagen may not just be skin-deep. It may support everything from joint health to gut integrity and muscle recovery. If boiling bones for hours isn’t your thing, supplementing with high-quality collagen peptides like WillPowders’ Swiss bovine collagen may be the easier (and tastier) way to keep your body feeling its best.

Ready to support your body and boost your nutrition? Try WillPowders Bovine Collagen Peptides and discover the difference it may make for your health and well-being. For more information about the benefits of collagen, check out our What are the Benefits of Collagen? blog.

Here’s to keeping your body as sturdy and vibrant as it deserves to be!