The Benefits and Risks of Taking Collagen for Workouts
Collagen isn’t just great for the skin but the body too, offering a number of benefits related to working out. Even though collagen isn’t the most popular of supplements, it has very few risks associated with regular consumption, making it a great option for those who are just starting out or want to increase their collagen consumption to make up for its slower natural production as a result of age. With that in mind, we’re taking a closer look at the best collagen advantages and the cons you need to be aware of when taking the supplement as part of a balanced diet to reap its full benefits.
Pros Of Collagen Consumption
Collagen supplements are great for those who workout, helping to aid weight loss, improve recovery time and enhance muscle mass. Some of the biggest benefits of taking collagen for workouts include:
- Improved joint pain: The consumption of collagen has been proven to reduce joint pain, helping to protect our bones from high-impact workout routines that require high-levels of physical activity to complete. With that in mind, you’re likely to experience less discomfort post-workout, reducing aches and pains.
- Better recovery time: Collagen supplements also help to improve your recovery time through supporting the protein synthesis that takes place after you workout. Protein synthesis is key to muscle growth, so consuming more collagen will aid both that and your overall recovery time.
- Faster weight loss: It’s said that the regular consumption of collagen may increase your feeling of being full, reducing the hunger you experience, having a direct impact on the amount of calories you consume throughout the day, possibly aiding weight loss. It also has other physical benefits such as better skin texture, decreased inflammation and reduced body fat.
Cons Of Collagen Consumption
With most supplements, there are some cons to be aware of when taking collagen for workouts. They aren’t to scare you, but to ensure you are correctly fuelling your body to make the most of its benefits.
- Bloating: It’s not unheard of that supplements may make you bloated, particularly when it comes to taking collagen. Though not a direct threat to your health, regular or unexplained bloating may lead to or be a sign of a serious health condition that may require further investigation.
- Feeling full: Even though feeling full may aid weight loss, it’s important to ensure you aren’t relying on collagen or any other supplement to fuel your body. Collagen should be consumed as part of a healthy diet so you need to ensure its consumption isn’t impacting your normal calorie intake based on your fitness goals.
- Heartburn: Heartburn is a common side effect of increasing your collagen intake, sometimes causing prolonged periods of discomfort. If you suffer from heartburn in general, it may be beneficial to look at the options available to you.
In Summary
With 2023 fast approaching, many people are looking at ways they can refine their fitness routine for the New Year. Collagen is just one supplement that has become an increasingly popular option amongst both men and women, providing a wide range of benefits including muscle growth, skin restoration and faster recovery which are all essential to good well-being. We’d love to hear more about the supplements you’ll be testing!
