Benefits of Collagen and Why It’s So Popular

Whether it’s from the news or on commercials, we hear a lot about collagen and collagen supplements these days. It can be hard to know what’s true and what’s hype, so in today’s blog we want to not only describe collagen but explore the effects it has on our bodies and highlight the importance of this protein that plays such a pivotal role in our health.

Let’s begin with defining collagen. According to Everyday Health: “Collagen is a type of protein that plays an important role in building and supporting many tissues, from bones and cartilage to skin, hair, eyes, and the digestive system.”

In other words, collagen is a necessary ingredient for optimal physical health.

Collagen has been described as the “glue” that holds a body together. It can be found in muscles, bones, skin, and blood. It accounts for one-third of the protein in a person’s body. Collagen has been shown to help skin elasticity, strengthen bones, thicken hair, create healthier nails, and even reduce joint pain and the pain of osteoarthritis because of its anti-inflammatory effects. Further, it is found in our connective tissues, in our tendons, and in our ligaments. Its presence helps with strength, elasticity, and structure. In addition, research has shown that collagen helps combat the effects of aging.

Our bodies naturally produce collagen, which is why a healthy diet is critical for its production. But in order to produce collagen, the body must have the necessary ingredients. It’s sort of like making chocolate chip cookies; if you leave out vital ingredients such as flour, sugar, and chocolate chips, you will not end up with a chocolate chip cookie. So it is with your body. To make collagen, it must combine the amino acids glycine and proline with other amino acids, including copper, zinc, and vitamin C.

You can aid in your body’s production of collagen by eating foods rich in glycine and proline. Those foods include beans, chicken, beef, eggs, fish, and dairy. But you must combine those with foods rich in copper, zinc, and Vitamin C—foods such as citrus fruits, leafy greens, whole grains, and nuts.

As we age into our thirties and beyond, collagen production slows way down and our bodies cease making the collagen we need. That’s when supplements become important; they play a large role in filling that void.

Performance Inspired has created two collagen products—a supplement and a powder—that will meet the needs of both men and women. Our Beauty Support Formula is a capsule, while the Collagen Peptide is a flavorless powder that can easily mix in your favorite drink. Both contain all-natural collagen and added vitamins to help support healthy hair, skin, nails, and joints. Our high-quality hydrolyzed formula has both Types I and III collagen to help you attain your health goals.

Why hydrolyzed? This means the collagen is broken down and easier for your body to digest. In addition, PI’s formula contains 5,000mcg of biotin, silica, 200x aloe vera concentrate, 250mg of MSM, 3mg of hyaluronic acid, and a healthy mix of vitamins.

Your body will thank you for supplementing its collagen needs with our formula. So make sure that you eat healthy foods, but combat that collagen deficit by adding either our Beauty Support Formula or the Collagen Peptides powder to your daily regimen