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The Real Deal On Collagen For Radiant Skin And Healthy Nails

By MoodMe

Collagen is a protein that you may have heard referred to as one of the main building blocks of our skin, hair, muscles, tendons, bones and ligaments. It also makes up parts of our gut, digestive system and vital organs. Collagen is a rich source of amino acids which are necessary to build, maintain and repair the bones and joints.

Lately, it probably seems like collagen has been called out to be the holy grail of skin and hair care - said to clear up the complexion, keep our skin firm and youthful and also fostering healthy, strong hair growth.

It's true that collagen makes up about 75% of the dry weight of our skin, and it does play a major role in the firmness, fullness and elasticity of our skin. And though our bodies naturally produce collagen, this natural production decreases significantly as we age, starting as early as our mid-20s.

So what’s the deal with supplementing with his seemingly miraculous ingredient? Does collagen live up to the hype? We’ve rounded up the details on collagen supplementation so you can decide if it's right for you.

The Benefits of Collagen

First of all, it isn’t just about our skin and hair, as you might have guessed. People take collagen for its effects on the brain, like its potential to stave off degenerative diseases like Alxheimers; as well as for the body since collagen is said to support digestive health and treat leaky gut syndrome by reducing inflammation in the body. And even when it comes to the skin, collagen isn’t just about a youthful visage (although the softening of fine lines and hyperpigmentation is a plus!) Collagen can also help repair wounds and spur cellular regeneration.

Do Collagen Supplements Work?

This is the million dollar question! (Quite literally, as the global collagen supplement market size was valued at $1,827.6 million in 2019, according to Allied Market Research). Collagen supplements are sold as peptide powders, capsules and liquids. Regardless of form, we’re not actually sure if these supplements provide the benefits we’re after. At this point it is still unclear as to whether ingested collagen is broken down completely by stomach acids or if it is actually able to reach the bloodstream. To date, research has been limited to small-scale studies and many have been at least partially funded by the industry.

Plus, since dietary supplements are not regulated the way drugs are, quality varies widely from product to product. Though the jury is still out on how effective supplementing with collagen might be, finding a safe product from a manufacturer you trust probably has little harm.

Food Sources of Collagen

It’s not all bad news, however! You can still get collagen from food-based sources. Foods that are rich in collagen come from animal sources. One of the most common ways to add collagen to your diet is through bone broth. Bone broth is made by slowly simmering bones and tissue from animals like chickens, cows, turkeys and deer. This slow process successfully extracts the collagen into the broth. Fish with the skin on is another excellent source of collagen, plus you get the extra benefits of omega-3 fatty acids to boot.

Protecting your Natural Collagen for Healthy Skin

Aside from consuming collagen, you can also eat foods and take steps to help to prevent the breakdown of collagen in your skin. UV damage and other environmental stressors contribute to the breakdown of collagen so daily sunscreen is crucial! Eating foods that are high in antioxidants and especially vitamin C can encourage the body to keep producing its own collagen. Include plenty of fruits and veggies like blueberries, citrus fruits, papaya, leafy greens, broccoli, bell peppers, and cauliflower.

Collagen is a protein that is critically important for our bones, skin and hair, tendons, ligaments and more. Though we are unsure as to whether collagen supplements can help replenish our natural supply of collagen, eating food sources of collagen and working to prevent collagen breakdown are great options for while the science continues to emerge!

Now That's A Mood: Restore Your Beautiful Skin from Within

Beachbody Collagen Boost®

Radiant skin and healthy nails begin on the inside—where creams and masks can’t reach but Beachbody Collagen Boost can. Just add Beachbody Collagen Boost to Shakeology® or your favorite beverage to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, increase skin elasticity, and support healthy nails—with just one daily targeted scoop.*

The key to healthy skin and nails

Beginning in your 20s, collagen—the protein that supports healthy skin and nails—begins to decline, leading to more lines and wrinkles, duller skin, and weaker nails.

Topical lotions and serums can treat skin at the surface, but the optimized peptides in Beachbody Collagen Boost impact skin on a deeper level, working below the exterior to help increase skin elasticity from within.

Each targeted, 2.5-gram serving is formulated with a key ingredient to help:

- Increase skin elasticity

- Reduce the appearance of wrinkles

- Support healthy nails

It’s easy to make Beachbody Collagen Boost a part of your routine—just add it to Shakeology or your favorite beverage for the ultimate self-care solution…a daily foundation for your nutrition and skin.

SHOP THE MOODME FAVORITE COLLAGEN >