4 min learnNew DelhiFeb 7, 2026 12:00 AM IST
Collagen dietary supplements have turn into a staple in lots of well being and sweetness routines, touted as important for youthful pores and skin, robust hair, and joint well being. However some consultants are actually difficult their effectiveness. Licensed well being coach Theo Bergmann just lately shared his perspective on why collagen dietary supplements will not be the reply.
Bergmann defined, “What’s the very best different for collagen? I imply, to begin with, collagen doesn’t even work as a result of you’ll be able to’t produce collagen by consuming collagen. It’s the identical as fixing your thyroid by consuming thyroid or consuming eye to repair your eye well being. It doesn’t work like this (sic).”
As a substitute, he suggests specializing in vitamins that help the physique’s pure synthesis of collagen. “You want the constructing blocks that construct collagen. One of many important constructing blocks and one of many minerals our our bodies want essentially the most, really, is silica. A number of the meals that comprise essentially the most silica are asparagus, artichokes, leafy greens (particularly dandelion), and melons. One in all my favorite sources is nettle leaf, which comprises excessive ranges of silica that help collagen formation and connective tissue, and is helpful for bones, ligaments, and tendons. That is really the way you construct collagen.”
However, is there scientific proof that consuming collagen immediately is ineffective?
Dr Gaurav Prakash Bhardwaj, director — Sports activities Damage, Joint Preservation and Substitute Surgical procedure at PSRI Hospital, tells indianexpress.com, “Collagen is a protein made up of amino acids. While you devour collagen, your digestive system breaks it down into smaller peptides and amino acids, similar to it does with another protein. The physique doesn’t take up collagen in its complete kind; as a substitute, it makes use of these constructing blocks to make its personal collagen the place wanted.”
So technically, he provides that “consuming collagen doesn’t immediately improve collagen ranges, however it could present the uncooked supplies the physique wants.” Scientific research have yielded blended outcomes: some people report enhancements in pores and skin elasticity or joint consolation with collagen dietary supplements; nevertheless, the consequences are inconsistent, and additional analysis is required.
How does silica contribute to collagen manufacturing, and are there different vitamins that play an analogous position?
In accordance with Dr Bhardwaj, silica is a hint mineral that helps connective tissue well being. It helps the exercise of enzymes concerned in collagen formation and helps preserve the power and elasticity of pores and skin, hair, and nails.
“Together with silica, different vitamins additionally help collagen manufacturing. Vitamin C is especially vital, as it’s important for the enzymes that stabilise collagen fibres. Minerals reminiscent of zinc and copper, in addition to amino acids like proline and glycine, additionally contribute. A balanced food plan wealthy in fruits, greens, lean proteins, and complete grains offers these vitamins naturally and helps wholesome collagen formation,” mentions Dr Bhardwaj.
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Bergmann warns that collagen dietary supplements could also be dangerous. How legitimate are his claims?
At the moment, Dr Bhardwaj stresses, there’s “no robust scientific proof that collagen dietary supplements hurt the liver in wholesome people. Most research counsel they’re typically secure when taken in beneficial doses. Nonetheless, dietary supplements will not be regulated as strictly as medicines, so high quality can range, and contamination is a doable threat.”
Individuals with kidney or liver illness needs to be extra cautious, he provides, as extra protein might pressure these organs. As with every complement, the physician states, collagen needs to be used provided that there’s a clear want and solely after consulting a doctor, whereas focusing totally on a nutrient-rich food plan for long-term well being.
DISCLAIMER: This text is predicated on info from the general public area and/or the consultants we spoke to. At all times seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
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