The idea that collagen peptides are only for women is outdated, and just plain untrue. Men’s lives can be positively impacted by the addition of collagen peptide supplements. They can enjoy all of the age-defying benefits that the supplements provide, as well as take advantage of the variety of muscle, tendon, and ligament-based benefits — there may even be one benefit that men especially will be interested in!
What Are Collagen Peptides?
Collagen peptides are made from animal collagen. Larger pieces of animal collagen are put through a process that includes heat, enzymes, and pressure to make hydrolyzed collagen, also known as collagen peptides. The hydrolysis process is necessary to break down the collagen into smaller pieces that are more bioavailable (easier to digest and absorb) to the human body.
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and accounts for 30% of the total protein in the body. It is the primary building block of the body’s skin, muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissues. As we age, our ability to produce collagen slows and we actually lose 1% of collagen a year after the age of 40.
Why is Collagen Important?
Not only is collagen important to the structure of our bodies, but it is also important to the proper functioning of many bodily processes. Your mobility is greatly dependent on collagen as it helps with muscle mass and keeping joints working properly. It also plays a key role in gut health and may be a contributing factor to a healthy heart.
Benefits of Collagen Peptides That May Interest Men
While collagen peptides may benefit anyone who takes them, there are definitely some concrete reasons why men should consider supplementing with them. Potential advantages for men who take collagen peptide supplements include:
Increased Muscle Mass: This may be of interest to any person taking collagen peptides, but men especially seem to be interested in gaining muscle. In a 12-week study, 26 older men with sarcopenia took 15 grams of collagen while participating in an exercise program. Compared to men who exercised but didn’t take collagen, they gained significantly more muscle mass and strength.
Collagen peptides can also reduce recovery time after a workout. Your ligaments and tendons are mainly composed of collagen, so maintaining collagen levels may ward off injury and inflammation.
Decreased Joint Injuries: As you age and lose collagen, your risk for joint injuries and disorders like osteoporosis increases. Research suggests that supplemental collagen may accumulate in cartilage and stimulate your tissues to make more collagen which may lead to better joint support, lower inflammation, and reduced joint pain.
This may be particularly compelling for men as joint pain and disorders lead to less mobility and take away from an active lifestyle.
Improved Heart Health: Heart disease is the number one cause of death in men each year. Collagen peptide supplementation may reduce the risk of developing a heart condition by providing structure to your arteries. Without enough collagen, your arteries can become rigid and inflexible leading to a narrowing of the arteries and resulting in a heart attack or stroke.
Supported Gut Health: The importance of gut health is becoming more mainstream because a healthy gut affects so much of everyday life. Many men start to experience gastrointestinal issues as they age. Collagen peptide supplementation can help by strengthening the lining of the intestines promoting cell flexibility and decreasing inflammation.
Rejuvenated Skin: Skincare isn’t just for women. Men should be equally concerned about the health of their skin. Over time your skin is exposed to many harmful environmental factors like ultraviolet light and other pollutants and toxins that can decrease your collagen production and reserves.
Decreased collagen leads to less elasticity in the skin which will lead to sagging, wrinkles, and other signs of aging. Collagen-rich skin is supple, has fewer wrinkles, and is smoother. Supplementing with collagen peptides can help improve your appearance and allow you to age gracefully.
Hair Loss Prevention: Hair loss is something that elicits worry and anxiety–especially in men. Collagen is crucial for the health of your skin, and this includes the skin on your scalp that holds each hair in place. When you don’t have enough collagen, the skin weakens and hair can fall out prematurely.
Collagen makes up 70% of your dermis, the middle layer of skin. The dermis is what holds each hair in place. If you have a healthy dermis, chances are you have a healthy head of hair.
–
The benefits of collagen peptide supplementation for men are abundant. Not only can they help you look younger, they can help you feel younger as well. Collagen peptides are for everyone, and if you’re a man, they may be what you’re looking to add to your wellness journey.
Want to learn more about collagen peptides and how to reach your optimal wellness? Contact 10X Health today!
