The main and most plentiful protein in the connective tissue of mammals, including people, is collagen. It is the substance that connects the body’s bone, cartilage, skin, tendons and muscles and holds them together similar to a glue. Collagen, together with elastin, gives tissue strength, firmness and flexibility. Collagen and keratin combine to give our skin its resilience, flexibility and strength. Our teeth and organs also rely on collagen.

As people age, they start experiencing collagen deficiencies. The deficiencies naturally lead to complications such as decreased joint mobility, sagging skin, sagging muscles and wrinkles. Replenishing deficient vitamins, nutrients and other natural components in the body is the purpose of taking supplements. Starting at age 25 or so, collagen decreases at about 1.5% every year reaching a decrease of 30% around age 45. Since the seventies, research from studies show taking a Collagen Supplement can not only help replace lost collagen, but help stimulate new collagen formation as well.

While many individuals have aesthetic reasons for wanting to reverse the effects of aging, other people are motivated by stiffness and disabling pain in their joints and muscles. Because collagen is not only essential for the smooth, supple firmness of youth, but also for muscle and joint strength, mobility and flexibility, trying to replenish collagen by using a collagen supplement appeals to a wide variety of people for different reasons. A collagen supplement is a natural alternative to surgery that makes a lot of sense.

As with any supplement or new treatment regimen, research is a good idea. Assess possible allergies and interactions with medications. Many supplements contain sugar, yeast, salt, soy, wheat, gluten and even shellfish. Most brands are collagen taken from chickens or cows, so vegans beware.

In addition to an oral Collagen Supplement, there are collagen injections and topical collagen creams. There is some controversy regarding collagen creams. Whether the creams do what they are claimed to do or not, the moisture benefits are not refuted. Some think the collagen molecule is too large to be efficiently absorbed into the skin.

Collagen injections can have complications, but their immediate effect cannot be questioned. The effect, although quick, is temporary. Out of the three types of collagen treatments, oral collagen supplements seem the most effective and promising. There is no risk involved, and collagen’s benefits include glossy hair, strong nails, better mobility and less pain. So, what do you have to lose by trying one?

One of the collagen supplement benefits is keeping your skin healthy as you age. This is why taking collagen supplement is highly advised.