Collagen supplements are marketed as having a variety of health and cosmetic benefits, including:
Skin health: Collagen supplements may improve skin firmness, suppleness, and moisture content. They may also help with wrinkles.
Joint health: Collagen supplements may help relieve joint pain. Collagen is rich in amino acids that help build joint cartilage.
Bone health: Collagen supplements may increase bone mineral density.
Heart health: Collagen supplements may improve heart health.
Weight loss: Some speculate that collagen supplements may help with weight loss by speeding up metabolism.
Collagen is a protein that provides structure and support to the body’s connective tissues, including skin, bones, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. Collagen supplements are often made from animal or fish materials, such as beef, pork, or fish bones and skins. They also typically contain peptides, which are short chains of amino acids.
Side effects of collagen supplements are rare, but you should tell your doctor before taking any type of supplement.