Collagen for Weight Management

Losing weight isn’t easy, and keeping it down can be even harder. Numerous studies have shown that collagen may be able to help you not only lose weight, but also deal with some of the side effects of weight loss such as maintaining strength and skin health after dropping a few kilos. Here are a few ways that supplementing with collagen powder can be useful when it comes to losing weight.

1. A Feeling of Fullness

Research has shown collagen is more filling than other similar protein powders and one trial found collagen to be 40% more filling than the same quantity of other protein powders used for weight maintenance. Trial participants consumed 20% less at their next meal after collagen consumption than individuals who consumed other types of protein. When you feel fuller for a longer time, you are more likely to eat less the next time you have a meal. Less energy consumption is one of the main factors to losing weight.

2. Appetite Reduction

One of the main benefits of collagen supplementation for weight loss is that it can help reduce appetite. A study among overweight and diabetic participants found that consumption of collagen promoted the release of satiating hormones into the bloodstream. Taking collagen reduced the appetite of participants resulting in a reduction of overall food intake. Reducing our hunger hormones will not help you lose weight by itself but it will make it much easier to resist cravings because you don’t feel the desire to eat as strongly.

3. Muscle Mass Retention

As we age, our bodies inevitably lose muscle mass. This loss of muscle is linked to  excess loss of nitrogen and increased need for protein in the diet of elderly people. Research has shown collagen can be effective in helping the elderly maintain lean body mass and nitrogen levels. In one particular study, elderly participants taking collagen supplements showed better preservation of lean body mass and nitrogen levels than those given alternative supplements such as whey proteins.

Higher muscle mass assists with weight loss because the body consumes calories faster. Maintaining muscle mass is important for aging, but it’s also important when it comes to losing weight and staying healthy. If we want to remain active and keep our bodies strong, we also need to consider injury prevention as well as the management of resulting aches and pains. Arginine, an amino acid found in collagen, has been shown to enhance overall strength as well as promote injury recovery in adult males, an important consideration for helping you stay active and managing your weight.

4. Cellulite

Collagen also plays an important role in hiding cellulite by strengthening the dermis layer of our skin.  Cellulite becomes more visible as we age because our skin stretches, thins, and sags. 70% of our skin and 90% of our connective tissue is made up of collagen. Regular consumption of collagen has been associated with an increase our skin’s collagen levels and improvements in its elasticity and thickness, which is important for covering the fat cells that lie underneath our skin.

Collagen as a Weight Management Supplement

Implementing collagen into your daily routine is easier than you may think. Collagen supplements are now readily available and perhaps the most popular way of adding it to your diet is through the consumption of collagen peptides, hydrolysed collagen in a powder form that can be added to just about any liquid, hot or cold.

There are a wide range of options for incorporating collagen into your daily diet. Collagen can help maintain fullness and promote weight loss, suppress your appetite, help maintain lean body mass, and hide the cellulite that comes from losing weight. 

Just one to two scoops a day can help you to manage weight, support digestive balance and gut health.

Disclaimer: As with any dietary choice, it's essential to strike a balance. A varied and balanced diet, coupled with a healthy lifestyle, is key to overall well-being. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with your Doctor or healthcare professional regarding your individual health needs before making any changes to your health routine or starting any new dietary supplements.