Hydrolyzed Collagen

Sources of Hydrolyzed Collagen

Hydrolyzed collagen is a protein similar to gelatin. They both come from the skin and bones of fish, bovine (beef), or porcine (pig). Hydrolyzed collagen is processed further and the collagen is isolated and broken down with enzymes to make it easier to digest.

Because it does come from animal sources, hydrolyzed collagen is not suitable for a vegetarian or vegan diet. There have also been concerns of supplements being contaminated with animal-borne illness such as mad cow, but no studies have shown that this is a possible risk.

Hydrolyzed Collagen and Skin and Hair Care

Collagen produced by our body acts to provide strength and elasticity to our skin. As it starts to deplete naturally, our skin begins to sag or wrinkle. Hydrolyzed collagen supplements act to increase the collagen our body has lost.

Hydrolyzed collagen can be found in a variety of personal care products. It has been reviewed and is considered safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) expert panel.

Many face creams and lotions will contain hydrolyzed collagen because it is able to retain the moisture in skin. It also levels a light film on the skin that serves to make skin appear instantly softer and protect it from drying environmental toxins.

Another benefit is that hydrolyzed collagen was shown in studies to be less irritating to skin and mucus membranes then other surfactants on the market. Hand lotion manufacturers also use hydrolyzed collagen. In addition to the benefits it has for the skin, hydrolyzed collagen is also wonderful for strengthening nails and cuticles.

Hydrolyzed collagen increases the glossiness and strength of hair. It enables the cuticle to easier absorb dyes for more even and longer lasting results. When used in conjunction with hair bleach and permanent waves it can also protect the hair structure from damage.

Bones and Joints Benefit from Hydrolyzed Collagen

Hydrolyzed collagen is used in supplements to treat a variety of bone and joint concerns. Collagen is an essential building block for bones and cartilage. The amino acids assist in the repair of these cellular structures as well.

The water soluble peptides in hydrolyzed collagen are rich in amino acids. Glycine, l-proline, and l-hydroxyproline are used to maintain bone density and cartilage.

Osteoporosis is described on the WebMD website as being a condition in which the bones start to lose density, leaving them with tiny holes like a sponge. These tiny holes allow bones to break more easily and with less force applied. The amino acids in hydrolyzed collagen promote bone growth and repair.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It is an inflammation of the joints caused by the breakdown of cartilage. It occurs most often in hips, spine, knees, and fingers.

Hydrolyzed collagen helps by increasing the collagen around the joints to provide pain relief and help protect the connective tissue. This allows the joints to stay strong and flexible.

Studies have shown that hydrolyzed collagen may also help speed healing time from sports related injuries. It is also been used to shorten muscle recovery time after exercise.

Weight Loss and Hydrolyzed Collagen

There are many claims that hydrolyzed collagen can help you lose weight while you sleep. The claim is that it helps the body produce HCG, human chorionic gonadotropin, which reduces appetite and burns fat. These claims have not been studied or proven.

That does not mean that hydrolyzed collagen cannot help you lose weight. The Livestrong website posted an article where hydrolyzed collagen was studied for weight loss. This study showed that the amino acids did aid in the increase of muscle growth and lean mass when combined with a healthy diet and exercise. Muscle growth results in a higher metabolic rate and accelerated fat burning.

Hydrolyzed Collagen Side Effects

There seem to be to be few if any side effects or drug interactions of hydrolyzed collagen. Some people have reported dermatitis after using skin care products containing it. Hydrolyzed collagen is related to gelatin which can cause a feeling of fullness, bloating, heartburn, belching, and sometimes an unpleasant taste in your mouth, according to Web MD.

Hydrolyzed collagen can be made from fish so if you have allergy to shellfish you may need to avoid it. You should always consult your doctor first.

To find and compare a wide variety of supplements with hydrolyzed collagen, use the free supplement finder now!