In recent years, collagen supplements have surged in popularity within the health and wellness market. Once primarily marketed towards women for promises of luscious hair, stronger nails, and youthful skin, these supplements are now catching the attention of men, too. With claims that collagen can aid in building muscle, improving joint health, and enhancing overall vitality, more men are adding collagen to their daily routines. By 2028, the collagen supplement industry is projected to reach £12.9 billion, driven by this newfound interest across all demographics.
One reason for collagen’s rising popularity among men is its versatility. Available in protein powders, coffee creamers, and pre-mixed beverages, collagen supplements are easy to incorporate into various diets without altering the flavor or texture of foods and drinks. While there are no specific benefits exclusive to men, the appeal lies in its potential to support muscle building and fat reduction—goals that are often at the forefront of men’s health and fitness aspirations.
Aging gracefully is not a concern limited to women. Men, too, seek ways to age better. Collagen is being explored for its benefits in maintaining muscle mass, reducing fat, and supporting joint and heart health. Ultimately, the widespread fascination with collagen can be summed up by its reputation as a “youth elixir” on the internet. After all, who wouldn’t want to turn back the clock a few years, regardless of gender?
The Appeal of Collagen for Men
The rising trend of collagen supplements among men is not just a passing fad. For many, it’s about embracing a holistic approach to health and fitness. Collagen’s ability to blend seamlessly into various foods and beverages makes it an attractive option for those seeking to enhance their diet without compromising on taste or convenience.
While the benefits of collagen are not gender-specific, certain advantages resonate particularly well with men. The quest for building muscle and reducing body fat is a common goal among men striving for a lean and muscular physique. Collagen supplements are often touted for their role in supporting muscle growth and recovery, making them appealing to those who are heavily invested in their fitness routines.
Men are just as interested in aging gracefully as women. Beyond anti-aging, collagen is being researched for its potential benefits in maintaining muscle mass, reducing fat, and supporting overall joint and heart health—attributes that contribute to a more active and healthy lifestyle.
Understanding Collagen
To appreciate why collagen supplements are gaining traction, it’s essential to understand what collagen is and how it functions in the body. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, acting as a vital building block for bones, skin, cartilage, and blood vessels. Think of it as the glue that holds everything together, maintaining the normal strength and structure of our connective tissues.
As we age, our bodies naturally produce less collagen, leading to signs of aging such as sagging skin and wrinkles. This natural decline is often exacerbated by external factors such as sun exposure, smoking, poor sleep, and diets high in sugar and processed foods. These factors accelerate collagen breakdown, contributing to the visible and physical signs of aging.
Collagen supplements aim to replenish the body’s diminishing collagen levels. These supplements are typically derived from the bones, skin, and connective tissues of animals like cows, pigs, and fish. But how effective are they? The science, while promising, still has many nuances. It’s important to note that much of the research supporting collagen supplements is funded by the companies that produce them, which can introduce potential biases.
There are two primary types of collagen relevant to supplements: Type I and Type II. Type I collagen is most prevalent in skin, tendons, and bones, while Type II is found in cartilage. Supplements usually contain hydrolysed collagen, meaning the collagen has been broken down into smaller peptides for easier absorption by the body.
These peptides can be formulated into pills or powders that dissolve in water, coffee, smoothies, or even oatmeal. However, these supplements don’t come cheap, so it’s worth considering whether the potential benefits justify the investment.
Benefits of Collagen for Men
Collagen supplements offer a range of potential benefits that are particularly appealing to men. From improving skin health to enhancing muscle growth and supporting joint health, here’s a closer look at what men can expect from adding collagen to their daily regimen.
Skin Health
While much of the research on collagen’s effects on skin has focused on women, the benefits can extend to men as well. Collagen helps maintain skin elasticity, hydration, and overall appearance. Studies have found that participants taking oral collagen peptide supplements showed significant improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkle reduction compared to those who took a placebo. Even though most studies are women-centric, men seeking to improve their skin’s youthful appearance might find collagen beneficial.
Muscle Building and Fat Reduction
One of the most enticing benefits of collagen for men is its potential to support muscle growth and fat reduction. Several studies suggest that collagen can play a role in enhancing body composition when combined with resistance training. Young active men who supplemented with collagen peptides alongside resistance training experienced a greater increase in fat-free mass over 12 weeks than those taking a placebo. Although collagen won’t instantly bulk you up, it can be a valuable addition to a muscle-building regimen when paired with consistent weight-bearing exercises.
Muscle Recovery
Collagen might also aid in muscle recovery post-exercise. Active men who took oral collagen supplements reported reduced muscle soreness after workouts. However, studies noted that collagen supplementation did not significantly impact inflammation or bone collagen rebuilding, suggesting that the precise mechanisms behind the reduced soreness remain unclear. Nevertheless, for those who experience frequent muscle aches from intense workouts, collagen could offer some relief.
Joint Health
Joint health is another area where collagen shows promise. Some studies indicate that oral collagen supplements can help alleviate joint pain associated with osteoarthritis, particularly in the hip and knee. This can be especially beneficial for men who engage in high-impact activities or have a history of joint issues. Reduced joint pain can enhance mobility and overall activity levels, contributing to a more active lifestyle.
Hair Health
While collagen’s benefits for hair growth and thickness are often touted, the scientific evidence remains inconclusive. Reviews have noted that the limited studies available are largely sponsored by supplement companies, leaving a gap in unbiased research. Therefore, while some men may experience improved hair health with collagen, more independent studies are needed to confirm these effects.
So, should men take collagen?
As the health and wellness landscape evolves, collagen supplements have emerged as a promising addition to the daily routines of many men. From supporting skin health and muscle growth to aiding in joint pain relief and potentially enhancing hair thickness, collagen offers a variety of benefits that align with the health goals of many men. The ease of integrating collagen into everyday foods and drinks, combined with its potential health advantages, makes it an attractive option for those looking to improve their overall well-being.
If you’re looking to try a collagen supplement, marine collagen is renowned for its high bioavailability and eco-friendly sourcing. TRUE MARINE is a leading UK brand specialising in high-quality marine collagen supplements designed to meet your body’s collagen needs, enhancing your natural beauty from the inside out.
However, it’s important to approach collagen supplementation with realistic expectations. While the science is promising, it is still developing, and many studies have been funded by companies with a vested interest in the outcomes. As with any supplement, the key is to use it as a complement to a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle, rather than a replacement for good nutrition and regular exercise.
