How Collagen May Influence Healthy Aging at the Cellular Level
Most cells in the body contain an outer layer called the extracellular matrix (ECM). It consists of elastic fibers, proteins, and collagen, which provides elasticity and strength. Collagen in the ECM can fragment or decrease during the aging process. In addition, elastic fibers of the ECM can decrease or accumulate abnormally.
The dermis, a layer of the skin, is mostly composed of the ECM and other skin cells. Because of this, the skin is particularly vulnerable to changes to collagen over time. Clinical studies have investigated if supplementation with collagen may help support skin health during the aging process.
A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial explored the potential efficacy of low-molecular-weight collagen peptides on skin health in healthy adult participants. The study lasted 12 weeks and involved 100 adults between the ages of 35 and 60 years. Changes in skin roughness, wrinkle height, eye wrinkle volume, and other physical measurements were evaluated. Statistically significant differences in eye wrinkle volume were observed from baseline in the test group. In addition, improvements in skin hydration were reported in the collagen group in several locations including forehead, cheeks, below the eyes, and forearm. Elasticity and parameters related to skin brightness were also improved in the test group when compared to baseline.*
Collagen’s importance during the aging process may extend beyond skin. Glycine is the smallest amino acid and a main component of collagen. A randomized crossover clinical trial investigated the potential effect of glycine-rich collagen peptides on sleep parameters. After seven nights, improvements in the number of awakenings during the night were observed. In addition, the proportion of correct answers on a cognitive test were greater in the treatment group as compared to placebo. Other clinical studies have reported improvements in sleep parameters in the presence of glycine supplementation, suggesting that glycine (and perhaps collagen) may interact with cognitive health, although more research is needed before clinical conclusions can be made.*
Another clinical study explored the potential efficacy of collagen peptides on parameters related to muscle integrity after exercise in healthy active adults. This randomized controlled trial reported improvements in parameters related to exercise recovery including muscle soreness.*
While more research is needed, collagen–at the cellular level–may impact many aspects of healthy aging. This includes skin health, muscle integrity, and much more.*
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to screen, diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition or assess risk of any disease or condition.