As we age, our body’s collagen production declines, leading to sagging skin, weaker muscles, and joint discomfort. But why is collagen so important, and how can you make sure your body gets enough? Let’s dive in.
Collagen: Miracle or Myth?
Collagen is often associated with skin care and beauty products, but it’s far more than a cosmetic concern. Collagen is a critical protein in your body that supports skin, bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and all connective tissues. Alongside elastin, collagen keeps skin supple and tissues strong. As we get older, collagen naturally breaks down faster than the body can replace it, leading to wrinkles, joint pain, and decreased muscle tone. Factors like smoking, sun exposure, and pollution can further accelerate collagen loss.
What is Collagen Protein?
Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins in the body and a key building block for connective tissue. Its decline can affect everything from skin elasticity to bone density and muscle mass. Maintaining collagen levels is essential for overall health, not just appearance.
Benefits of Collagen Protein
Supports Heart Health
Collagen provides structure to arteries and blood vessels. Insufficient collagen can weaken these structures, increasing the risk of cardiovascular issues and potential strokes.
Bone and Joint Health
Collagen helps maintain bone and joint integrity. Starting as early as age 20, we lose approximately 1% of collagen per year, and women can lose up to 30% during menopause. Collagen loss affects bone density and cartilage, increasing the risk of osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and fractures.
Muscle Mass and Strength
Collagen is vital for muscle growth and repair. Studies show that collagen supplementation can stimulate muscle protein synthesis and support strength gains, especially when combined with resistance training.
Other Benefits
Collagen also strengthens hair and nails, aids wound healing, supports gut health, and may even improve mood and reduce anxiety.
Boosting Collagen: Supplements Over Food
While collagen exists in foods like chicken skin, pork, fish, and bone broth, digestive enzymes break it down into amino acids, reducing its effectiveness. Hydrolyzed collagen in supplements is pre-broken down, making it more efficiently absorbed by the body. Collagen supplements provide high-quality protein with minimal sodium and sugar, helping prevent bloating while delivering essential amino acids like proline and glycine to support tendons, muscles, and joints.
One study in older men with sarcopenia found that taking 15 grams of collagen daily, combined with resistance training, significantly increased muscle mass and reduced fat compared to training alone.
Collagen has been used for centuries in traditional Eastern medicine, including deer and elk velvet antler extracts, which have long been valued for their rejuvenating properties.
Best Collagen Supplement
Ten Performance’s Recover liquid collagen supplements are made from all-natural velvet antler extract sourced from farm-raised elks in the U.S. Liquid collagen is highly bioavailable, making it easier for the body to absorb. These supplements support muscle recovery, reduce soreness, improve energy, and enhance performance. Antioxidants in the formula further optimize absorption for maximum benefits.
If you’re looking for the best collagen supplement to maintain your skin, muscles, bones, and overall vitality, Ten Performance has you covered.
Clean, effective, and trusted by leading athletes—Ten Performance helps you perform, recover, and repeat. Let’s go!
