Authored by Dr. Susan E. Brown
[The following blog is a lightly edited transcript of a video talk by Dr. Brown. Prefer to watch? Find the video here.]
Aging is a natural part of life, but who says we can’t age gracefully? One way to support a youthful appearance, strong bones and flexible joints is by incorporating collagen into your daily routine. Collagen, a key protein in the body, plays a vital role in maintaining skin elasticity, bone strength and joint health. Let’s explore why collagen is a game-changer for staying strong and vibrant as we age.
After the age of 25, our bodies produce about 15% less collagen every decade. This decline leads to visible signs of aging, like wrinkles, sagging skin and a loss of structural firmness — most noticeable on the face. While we can’t completely stop the aging process, supplementing with collagen can help slow it down. Collagen supports skin hydration, flexibility and moisture, giving it a more youthful appearance.
Strong bones, stronger you
Collagen isn’t just about skin deep beauty — it’s critical for bone health too. Bones rely on a strong internal protein matrix, which collagen helps build. As we age, this matrix weakens, increasing the risk of fractures, even in those without extremely low bone density. Supplementing with collagen stimulates the body to produce more of this essential protein, reinforcing the internal structure of bones and helping to keep them resilient.
Flexible joints for an active life
Aging often brings joint stiffness and discomfort, but collagen can help here too. Joints, tendons and connective tissues are largely made up of collagen, which keeps them fluid and flexible. By supporting collagen production, supplementation can ease joint pain and improve mobility, helping you stay active and comfortable.
How collagen works in your body
Collagen supplementation doesn’t just add collagen to your body — it encourages your body to create more of it. This process is well-documented and can enhance the health of your skin, bones and joints. While a balanced diet with all the necessary nutrients is important, collagen supplementation provides targeted support to stimulate collagen production internally.
Choosing the right collagen
When selecting a collagen supplement, ensure it contains Types I-V collagen, as these are the primary types that support skin, bones, joints and connective tissues. A comprehensive collagen supplement with these types can maximize the benefits for overall health and vitality.
Collagen is a powerful ally in the quest to stay youthful, strong and active. By supporting skin hydration, bone strength and joint flexibility, it addresses some of the most common challenges of aging. Whether you’re looking to reduce wrinkles, strengthen your bones or keep your joints moving smoothly, collagen supplementation can help you feel and look your best at any age. Add it to your daily routine and embrace the benefits of this remarkable protein!
