Are there any benefits to eating food products with collagen?

Doctor's Answers 1

Photo of Dr Wai Leong Quan
Dr Wai Leong Quan

Gastroenterologist

There are plenty of written articles and online information on the use of collagen in the management of muscle, bone, and skin related conditions. There are also loads of online data on comparing the different types of collagens and their respective mode of administration to achieve the optimal effects. In general, collagen is a natural form of protein synthesised by the body. It is mainly found in connective tissues of blood vessels and skin tissue and serve to maintain their respective structures and elasticity. Collagen is also found in bone and cartilages especially in joints.

Although vital to the body, collagen cannot be absorbed intact when taken orally. It will be broken down into smaller molecules known as amino acids the same way normal food is broken down for proper absorption. The absorbed amino acids will then be utilised by the body based on its own requirement; not necessary reconstituted back into the original collagen molecule. In other words, collagen from food when taken orally, will serve similar nutrition purpose as a piece of steak consumed.

The clinical evidence in using commercially prepared supplemental collagen to rebuild damaged collagen in the body is limited despite many claims for its use in reducing joint pain and improving skin turgor. Depending on the manufacturing process in these collagen capsules or injections, additional unwanted ingredients may also be present in small amount and user discretion in its frequent use is advised.

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