Common knowledge and modern influencer culture shows that Collagen may improve skin health and enhance beauty but did you know it has been shown to improve muscle and joint health, especially after physical activities such as working out? A scoop of high quality collagen in your morning smoothie or post workout shake is a great way to start your day regardless of your level of activity.

Whether you're an athlete, a bodybuilder, or a yoga instructor, collagen is beneficial for rebuilding and repairing muscle tissues, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage that may have been damaged through exercise. Collagen is a vital part of our body's structural support, comprising 90% of the connective tissue in our body, including joints, ligaments, tendons, and fascia. Collagen's high bioavailability and high protein content make it an optimal post-workout nourishment because it quickly absorbs and can readily assist in the repair and replenishment of proteins broken down during strenuous physical exercise.


Collagen for Muscle Repair

During exercise, oxidation, inflammatory reactions, and muscle fatigue can lead to protein loss in muscle tissues. Studies show that protein synthesis decreases right after exercise, and it then increases for a significant period of time. A high protein diet after a workout restores protein to muscles by accelerating their anabolic metabolism. The high-protein content of collagen supplementation makes it especially essential for post-workout muscle repair and recovery.


Increasing Recovering Time

There are two basic processes for repairing torn or ruptured muscles: the regrowth of muscle fibers at the same time as they are covered with connective tissues, and the formation of connective tissues itself. The primary key to both of these processes is collagen formation. Following a muscle rupture or tear, scientists noticed that the rate of collagen synthesis in muscle cells was elevated three weeks following the incident. Type III collagen synthesis reached a peak during the first 7 days of wound healing and is related to the development of the connective tissue. Type 1 collagen production started later in the wound healing process and is related to increasing the strength of new muscle fibers and connective tissue.


Reducing Joint Pain from Strenuous Activities

Clinical studies have indicated that supplementation with collagen may reduce joint pain caused by regular activity and exercise. Activities that demand a high level of physical activity have the potential to cause stress on the joints, leading to pain and injury. In a study with participants who experienced joint pain from physical activities, shows that supplementation with a collagen protein for 6 months greatly improved their flexibility. mobility and overall joint function. Movement-related pain subsided and the subjects could move longer before experiencing pain.


While Collagen may be known to help to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, it is also very beneficial for joint and muscle health. Taking a collagen supplement with the necessary cofactors such as Vitamins A, C, Zinc, and Copper can greatly improve healthy collagen production to help you recover from your workouts faster and experience fewer aches and pains.

June 06, 2022 — MD Logic Health