What Are Collagen Peptides? Find Out Here!

Collagen peptides are supplements made from the bones, skin, and cartilage of certain animals. Their main function is to increase the endogenous synthesis of this protein.

Collagen peptides are becoming increasingly relevant due to their nutritional and physiological properties. They play an important role in maintaining our:

• skin
• her
• bones
• nails

So, how are they obtained? And what are their effects?

Collagen synthesis in the body

To better understand how they function in the body, it is important to understand the role collagen plays in living things. This substance is one of the proteins that make up the connective tissue in the body, especially in our skin, joints and bones.

Collagen is one of the most abundant molecules in many living organisms, given its role in biological structures. It is synthesized by means of the amino acids that we ingest. The body absorbs them and forms three chains of polypeptides that link together to form collagen.

However, despite its abundance, collagen fibers become damaged over time and lose their thickness and resistance. As a result, the aging process accelerates.

How do we get collagen peptides?

Thanks to the consumption of collagen peptides, the body is better able to synthesize this protein. The raw material used to obtain this product is collagen itself. It is obtained by the hydrolysis of the substance we have in the skin, cartilage and bones of fish, pigs and cows.

In general , collagen peptides contain a minimum of two and a maximum of 100 amino acids. Furthermore, they dissolve well in cold water and do not produce gels, even in highly concentrated solutions.

The Benefits of Taking Collagen Peptides

A study published in the journal Nutrients reveals that collagen peptides are effective at moisturizing the skin and preventing wrinkles.

Experts also suggest that oral intake of these peptides is helpful in preventing diseases such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.

How do collagen peptides work in the skin?

Since the relationship is directly proportional to the aging of the skin, collagen has gained great interest in the cosmetic industry. In this sense, researchers have discovered that short-chain peptides are bioavailable and bioactive. Therefore, they can bring certain benefits.

Furthermore, when administered orally, they can reach the deepest layer of the skin. Thus, they can stimulate the endogenous production of components of the extracellular matrix of the skin. It is then able to achieve the effects we have mentioned.

What does science say about this?

A study published by the Nature Research Journal comments on the similarity between cow and human collagen peptides. This similarity explains the significant improvements these supplements produce in the skin, according to the researchers.

This is because the hydrolysis of bovine collagen produces peptides characterized by a sequence of amino acids similar to the amino acid of human collagen.

In addition, a scientific study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that this similarity also occurs when it comes to pork collagen.

According to this study, the peptides from pigs appear to improve collagen synthesis in humans. Therefore, these peptides can help to improve and repair the skin of the whole body.

How to maximize the effects

Collagen peptide supplements may be helpful. Many of them also contain other substances, such as:

• vitamins
• minerals
• antioxidants (especially vitamin C)
• magnesium

Thanks to these substances, these supplements can achieve even greater effects when it comes to skin hydration and elasticity.

Collagen Peptides: What to Think About

The use of collagen peptides is mainly for cosmetic purposes as they significantly improve the appearance of the skin. In addition, in combination with other substances, the effects can be even greater.

It is also worth mentioning that the formation of hydrolyzed collagen also exists, but this has an anti-inflammatory purpose in bones and joints.

Finally, it is important to remember that collagen not only makes up the skin, but also bones, hair and other tissues. Therefore, a good stimulation of collagen production is beneficial.