February 28, 2023
Can Ingesting Collagen Improve Bone Density?
Blog Title: Can Ingesting Collagen Improve Bone Density?
Blog Introduction: Bone density is an important factor in maintaining overall health, especially as we age. As we age, our body’s ability to naturally produce collagen decreases, which can lead to a decrease in bone density. But can consuming extra collagen help increase bone density? Let’s take a closer look at the research.
Blog Body:
The Science Behind Collagen and Bone Density
Collagen is a protein found naturally in the body that helps to provide structure and support for bones, muscles and skin. When collagen breaks down over time, it can cause joints to become weak or brittle, which can result in reduced mobility and even pain. It’s also been suggested that ingesting extra collagen may help improve bone density by providing the body with more of this essential protein.
Studies have shown that consuming supplemental collagen may have some beneficial effects on bone health and density. A recent study published in Nutrients found that daily supplementation with bovine-derived (animal-based) hydrolyzed collagen improved parameters associated with bone mass and strength among postmenopausal women over a 6-month period. The study concluded that “These findings suggest that the supplement might be beneficial for improving BMC [bone mineral content] and BMD [bone mineral density] in postmenopausal women after 6 months of supplementation."
Another study conducted on rats found similar results; rats who were supplemented with hydrolyzed type I collagen increased their femur bone mineral content compared to those who were not supplemented. Additionally, a third study showed that daily ingestion of bovine-derived hydrolyzed collagen significantly increased serum levels of osteocalcin—a marker for increased bone formation—in men aged 40–70 years old over a 16 week period.
Conclusion:
Overall, there is evidence to suggest that ingesting extra collagen can help improve bone health by increasing both bone mineral content and bone mineral density. While further research is needed to determine whether these same effects will be seen in humans long term, adding a high quality dietary supplement containing hydrolyzed type I collagen may be beneficial for those looking to improve their overall bone health. However, it's still important to speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement routine to ensure it's right for you.
Blog Introduction: Bone density is an important factor in maintaining overall health, especially as we age. As we age, our body’s ability to naturally produce collagen decreases, which can lead to a decrease in bone density. But can consuming extra collagen help increase bone density? Let’s take a closer look at the research.
Blog Body:
The Science Behind Collagen and Bone Density
Collagen is a protein found naturally in the body that helps to provide structure and support for bones, muscles and skin. When collagen breaks down over time, it can cause joints to become weak or brittle, which can result in reduced mobility and even pain. It’s also been suggested that ingesting extra collagen may help improve bone density by providing the body with more of this essential protein.
Studies have shown that consuming supplemental collagen may have some beneficial effects on bone health and density. A recent study published in Nutrients found that daily supplementation with bovine-derived (animal-based) hydrolyzed collagen improved parameters associated with bone mass and strength among postmenopausal women over a 6-month period. The study concluded that “These findings suggest that the supplement might be beneficial for improving BMC [bone mineral content] and BMD [bone mineral density] in postmenopausal women after 6 months of supplementation."
Another study conducted on rats found similar results; rats who were supplemented with hydrolyzed type I collagen increased their femur bone mineral content compared to those who were not supplemented. Additionally, a third study showed that daily ingestion of bovine-derived hydrolyzed collagen significantly increased serum levels of osteocalcin—a marker for increased bone formation—in men aged 40–70 years old over a 16 week period.
Conclusion:
Overall, there is evidence to suggest that ingesting extra collagen can help improve bone health by increasing both bone mineral content and bone mineral density. While further research is needed to determine whether these same effects will be seen in humans long term, adding a high quality dietary supplement containing hydrolyzed type I collagen may be beneficial for those looking to improve their overall bone health. However, it's still important to speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement routine to ensure it's right for you.