Collagen: Strengthens skin, joints and intestines

Collagen – why you should eat it every day and its positive effects on the body

Collagen is the body's most abundant protein and serves as the building block for skin, joints, tendons, bones, blood vessels and intestines. Despite its important role, the body's production naturally decreases with age, which can lead to wrinkles, joint stiffness and reduced bone strength. By adding collagen daily, you can support the body's repair, recovery and vitality on multiple levels.

In this article, we go over why collagen is important, what effects daily intake can have, and how to get the best results through diet and supplementation.

What is collagen?

Collagen acts as a kind of “glue” in the body, giving tissues strength, elasticity and stability. There are several types of collagen:

• Type I: Skin, tendons, bones and blood vessels.

• Type II: Cartilage and joints.

• Type III: Connective tissue and organs.

• Types V and X: Hair, nails and cartilage structures.

Collagen is mainly composed of glycine, proline and hydroxyproline , amino acids that are crucial to the protein's structure. As production declines with age, skin firmness, joints, gut health and immune function are affected.

Why we need collagen

1. Strengthens the skin and reduces signs of aging

Collagen is essential for skin elasticity and firmness. Daily intake of hydrolyzed collagen can:

• Increase skin hydration and elasticity.

• Reduce visible wrinkles and fine lines.

• Support the skin's barrier function.

In short, collagen helps the skin retain elasticity and moisture, giving it a younger appearance.

2. Promotes joint health and mobility

Collagen type II is found in cartilage and is important for joints. Regular intake can:

• Reduce joint pain and stiffness, especially in osteoarthritis.

• Strengthen cartilage and protect against degradation.

• Improve mobility and recovery after exercise.

Daily intake can result in less inflammation and better joint health over time.

3. Supports bones and skeleton

Collagen makes up approximately 30% of bone mass and interacts with minerals such as calcium and vitamin D. Effects of daily intake:

• Increased bone mineral density.

• Reduced risk of fractures.

• Support for bone building during aging.

Postmenopausal women in particular can benefit from supplements to maintain strong bones .

4. Strengthens intestinal health and immune system

Collagen contributes to the intestinal barrier function and can support the immune system by:

• Repair the intestinal wall.

• Reduce “leaky gut”.

• Support a balanced intestinal flora.

Daily intake of collagen strengthens the structure of the intestine, which helps the body absorb nutrients and improves the function of the immune system.

5. Supports hair and nails

Collagen promotes:

• Stronger nails.

• Healthier hair with better structure and shine.

• Reduced hair loss.

Collagen supplementation provides visible improvements in hair and nails with regular use.

6. Increases muscle mass and recovery

Collagen contains amino acids that support muscle growth and repair. Effects:

• Increased muscle strength in the elderly.

• Faster recovery after training.

• Maintained muscle mass during aging.

Combined with protein-rich meals, collagen promotes both strength and endurance .

7. Supports cardiovascular health

Collagen is found in the walls of blood vessels and contributes to:

• Elasticity of arteries and veins.

• Stability of blood vessels and heart valves.

• Better circulation and reduced pressure on the heart.

Daily intake can contribute to a stronger and more flexible vascular system .

Effects of daily collagen intake

Collagen peptides taken daily provide the body with continuous access to building blocks for skin, joints, intestines, hair and nails. The effects are often cumulative and visible after 4–12 weeks:

Short term (2–4 weeks)

• Better skin hydration.

• Reduced dryness and tight feeling.

• Less joint stiffness after exercise.

Medium term (4–8 weeks)

• Improved skin elasticity.

• Stronger nails and healthier hair.

• Faster muscle recovery.

Long term (8–12 weeks and beyond)

• Reduced wrinkles and signs of aging.

• Strengthened joints and cartilage.

• Better bone health and increased bone mineral density.

• Support for intestinal health and immune system.

Tips for best results

1. Choose the right type of collagen: Hydrolyzed collagen (collagen peptides) is easily absorbed.

2. Combine with Vitamin C: Necessary for converting amino acids into collagen.

3. Be consistent: Daily intake gives the best effect.

4. Focus on the whole: Good sleep, stress management, physical activity and a balanced diet enhance the effects of collagen.

5. Hydration: Enough water is important for skin, bowel and muscle functions.

Conclusion

Collagen is much more than a skin protein – it is a multifunctional building block that affects the entire body. By drinking collagen daily, you can:

• Strengthen skin, hair and nails.

• Protect and repair joints and cartilage.

• Improve gut health and immune system.

• Support bone strength and muscle mass.

• Promote vascular and heart health.

Daily collagen intake along with a nutritious diet, physical activity and good sleep creates a strong foundation for long-term health and vitality .