You’ve heard the talk around collagen’s benefits for weight loss. You are seriously considering adding collagen to your weight loss efforts, but you still have some questions and maybe even concerns.

We’ve put together some facts regarding collagen for weight loss and will be providing you with answers to some very common questions like: “What is collagen?”, “When to take collagen for weight loss?”, and “What are the benefits of collagen?”.

By reading this article, you’ll be equipped to make an informed decision about adding collagen to your daily wellness routine.

What is Collagen?

In order to determine if you should take collagen for weight loss, or for any other reason for that matter, you need to understand what collagen is. Most hear the word collagen and automatically think of skin care. Although collagen is very much a part of that industry, collagen is first and foremost a type of protein that the body naturally produces.

Collagen is found throughout the body in all the connective tissues. It’s vital to the structure and functionality of the body. Unfortunately, collagen synthesis begins to naturally decline as we grow older. How quickly it declines depends on a few factors such as one’s overall health, diet, sleep patterns, activeness, and even stress levels.

There are a few notable signs that your collagen levels are not what they once were. Skin aging is the first tell-tale sign. A few fine lines and wrinkles begin to show up, skin appearance and even texture starts changing. After that, you may start to notice joint stiffness or pain.

It’s often at this stage in our lives when we slowly put on a pound or two. Why? Collagen isn’t abundant enough for our digestive system to work as well as it once did, affecting our metabolism as well as being able to break down food and nutrients. Activity levels tend to drop off as joint pain or stiffness interferes with our desire to be active.

As collagen levels lessen, inflammation sets in. Inflammation can cause a lot of age related health concerns, including weight gain or inability to lose weight. It’s no surprise that collagen supplementation has become a huge industry. We need collagen!

Collagen Supplements: Nutrition

Collagen supplements were designed to replenish this vital protein as the body’s natural ability to produce it slows down. It’s important to note that not all collagen supplements are created equal. Some supplements only contain collagen, while others include additional nutrients beneficial for our health. 

There are also supplements on the market that are less than quality and contain ingredients like fillers and even refined sugars that your health will not benefit from. Be sure to read the labels!

Here’s a few key nutritional ingredients you may want to look for in your supplement of choice, especially when one of your goals for taking collagen is weight loss.

Amino Acids

If you’re looking for a collagen supplement that can help with weight loss, you may want to consider a supplement that contains amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. They can help to promote muscle growth. They also help to boost metabolism and reduce fat storage. 

Collagen supplements that contain amino acids will also help to improve the overall health of all the connective tissue found in the body such as skin, joints, ligaments, and tendons.

Your skin will look more youthful as the amino acids along with the collagen work to improve skin elasticity. Your joints will begin to hurt less and their flexibility will improve.

Vitamin C

There are a few reasons why vitamin C is important for collagen production. Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen. In other words, without vitamin C, your body can’t produce collagen.

Second, vitamin C plays an significant role in protecting collagen from damage. Vitamin C neutralizes free radicals, which can cause oxidative stress and lead to the breakdown of collagen. Studies have shown that oxidative stress does contribute to weight gain.

Finally, vitamin C helps to promote the production of new collagen fibers. So not only does it help your body to produce more collagen, but it also helps to repair and replace damaged collagen fibers.

Biotin

Biotin is essential for the health of your skin, hair, and nails. It helps to keep connective tissues strong and healthy, which can in turn help you to look younger and more vibrant. A great benefit, but can biotin help with weight loss?

Yes, biotin can impact weight loss. Biotin has been shown to boost metabolism and help the body to burn fat more efficiently. Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in fat metabolism. It helps the body break down fats and convert them into energy.

Biotin has also proven to be effective in regulating blood sugar levels, which can be helpful for managing cravings when trying to lose weight.

Zinc

Zinc plays a key role in metabolizing fat, so it can help you burn more fat and lose weight more effectively.

Taking zinc also helps to keep your appetite in check, so you’re less likely to overeat. A definite plus when trying to lose weight. Zinc plays an essential role when it comes to maintaining a healthy metabolism and is needed for gut health. This is necessary for both digestion and absorption of nutrients. 

Additionally, zinc helps to regulate hormones, which can be key for weight loss.

What Are the Benefits Of Collagen?

There are many benefits when it comes to taking collagen, but since we’re discussing collagen for weight loss, let’s focus on the benefits of taking collagen specifically for weight loss.

Provides Fullness Unlike Other Proteins

It’s no secret that protein is a vital part of any diet. What you may not know is that not all proteins are created equal. Collagen supplements are unique in that they help to promote fullness and satiety in a way that other proteins don’t.

Collagen is composed of peptides, which are chains of amino acids that the body can easily absorb and use for a variety of functions. Peptides help to send signals to the brain indicating that the stomach is full, which helps to control food intake and prevent overeating.

Collagen is also hydrophilic, meaning it attracts and binds to water. This is significant because it means that collagen can help you stay hydrated while also helping you feel fuller after eating since it takes up space in your stomach. Other proteins are not as effective at binding to water, so don’t provide the same sense of satiety.

Helps Suppress Appetite

Collagen contains a high concentration of the amino acid glycine, which has been shown to have appetite-suppressing effects. 

When it comes to appetite suppression, collagen also works to regulate blood sugar levels. When blood sugar dips, it can trigger feelings of hunger. By keeping blood sugar levels stable, collagen can reduce those feelings of hunger. 

Helps Retain Muscle Mass

As our bodies produce less collagen, we also begin to lose muscle mass. This can make it difficult to lose weight, as muscle tissue is more metabolically active than fat tissue.

Collagen supplements help preserve muscle mass. Muscle tissue is more dense than fat and requires more energy to maintain. 

May Help in Smoothing Cellulite Appearance

Cellulite is caused by fatty deposits that push and bulge against the skin, resulting in an uneven, dimpled appearance. While there’s no surefire way to get rid of cellulite completely, collagen may help to reduce its appearance.

Collagen peptides help to support the structure of the skin. By supplementing with collagen, you can help to restore lost collagen, improve the elasticity of your skin and reduce the appearance of cellulite because of a smoother, firmer appearance of your skin. 

How Do You Take Collagen For Weight Loss?

Collagen supplements come in powders, capsules, liquids, gels, and even topical creams and serums. If you’re taking collagen for weight loss, the most popular form due to ease and convenience would be collagen powder.

Choose a quality collagen supplement, considering some of the added nutrients mentioned earlier. 

Simply mix the collagen powder into your favorite beverage or smoothie. You can also add it to soups or oatmeal for an extra protein boost. Start with a small amount and increase gradually as needed to allow for your body to adjust to absorbing the collagen peptides. The recommended dosage is 10-20 grams per day. It’s that easy!

When Should I Take Collagen Supplements?

The best time to take collagen supplements is when it’s convenient and easy for you. You want to be consistent in taking them for optimum results.

Most people like to start their day with this protein powerhouse. It provides energy for the day. Making it part of your daily morning routine allows for consistency. Stirring the collagen powder into your morning coffee or make it your breakfast by blending up a nutritious breakfast smoothie. Collagen powder can be easily mixed into yogurt or oatmeal to change things up.

Not a breakfast person? Make it part of your workout routine if that’s more convenient for you.

Is it Safe to Take Collagen Supplements Every Day? 

Collagen supplements as with most dietary supplements are designed to be taken daily.

When starting your collagen supplementation, it is recommended that you begin with a lower dosage to avoid any possible upset to the stomach while your digestive system adjusts to the collagen peptides.

The Bottom Line

We have covered a lot of information as to when to take collagen for weight loss and many of the facts you need to know about taking collagen. You can feel confident in making your decision to take collagen for weight loss. 
Looking for more great health tips? You will find lots on our Health BLOG! Want to be sure you are getting the quality supplement that’s right for you and your goals? Head on over to our collagen product page and find exactly what you’re looking for. Here’s to your health!

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