Collagen for anti-ageing: Does it really work?

Recently Indian actress Aishwarya Lekshmi took to her Instagram speaking of a morning health drink she consumes to boost skin function Spreading health information in a responsible manner she admitted to there being no research to prove her claims She also added that it is a personal anecdote regarding oral collagen use and skin appearance which happened to work for herAn MBBS doctor from Kerala she also provides insight into other factors sleep hygiene diet and environmental stressors that can impact skin health turning it into a wholesome discussion tackling health misinformation She does not endorse a particular brand and advises people to research brands on their ownSomeone shared this video with me and asked me for my commentsIf celebrities want to provide health information on supplements to the public and their nonmedical followers the least they should do is to do it the way she does Aiswarya Lekshmi is an actress and a doctorhellip pictwittercommJsdqyTKZ5mdash TheLiverDoc theliverdr July 20 2024Mihir Gadani a skin expert from OZiva plantforward venture shares that collagen production slows down after the age of 20 rendering onersquos skin more susceptible to damage from free radicals and environmental stressorsThis essential protein which depletes naturally as we age is integral when we think about the hallmarks of youthfulness ndash plumpness elasticity and a luminous glow When you choose to incorporate collagen through powder or any other form into your routine it helps replenish these vital reserves diminishing the appearance of fine lines wrinkles and age spots that tend to emerge in our 20s and 30sKeralabased Hepatologist Cyriac Abby Philips sheds light on collagen use and its impact on the liver as patients come to him seeking solutions for dry skin and pigmentation ldquoOral collagen has been studied for improving joint symptoms in inflammatory joint disorders and also for antiagening wrinklefree effects on the skinrdquoHe adds ldquoEven though a recent highquality metanalysis highest level of evidence demonstrated no evidence that collagen use can make ones skin look healthier in the long term some metanalysis suggested that shortterm use of hydrolysed collagen for 90 days reduced skin wrinkling by improving elasticity and hydration when compared to placebordquoThe perfect dose and duration and type of collagen collagen peptides or hydrolyzed collagen that can actually improve skin appearance is still unknown because studies have used various formulations different duration and in different types of peopleMost importantly he outlines that one should know about their collagen sources Collagen of all types is available from only bovine source mostly type 1 and 2 naturally occurring collagen found in the cartilage bones and hides of cows and marine collagen sourced from fish ndash typically from the skin of wildcaught cod that are not at risk of being endangered is mostly type 1 collagenHe states that ldquothere is no plant source of collagen So vegans and vegetarians beware before taking collagen supplements for skinrdquoNatural sources of collagenBone broth Made by simmering animal bones bone broth is rich in collagenFish and shellfish Particularly the skin bones and scalesChicken Especially the skin cartilage and bonesEgg whites Contain large amounts of proline one of the amino acids necessary for collagen productionBerries High in vitamin C which helps in collagen synthesisGarlic Contains sulfur which helps in collagen productionNuts and seeds Such as almonds cashews and sunflower seeds which provide zinc and copper that support collagen productionWhile in Gadanas experience the benefits of collagen end up going beyond superficial improvements Studies have shown that it can also improve hydration enhance skin elasticity and even boost hair and nail healthrdquoThere is a master antioxidant known as glutathione which has a huge part to play when collagen wears away It acts like a shield protecting our cells from oxidative stress and promoting overall skin health Fortunately advancements in skincare have made it easier than ever to boost glutathione levels naturallyGadani recommends starting early and establishing a proactive regimen that incorporates collagen and glutathione supplements can lay the groundwork for a future where your skin glows with confidence regardless of your age However you must know that skincare alone is not enough Cultivating healthy lifestyle habits is equally important for optimal skin health Adequate hydration balanced nutrition regular exercise and stress management all play a vital role in supporting our skins natural repair and regeneration processes