Many people take collagen supplements because they want to tap into the fountain of youth. But can these products really reverse the aging process?
Dr. Dawn Davis, a dermatologist at the Mayo Clinic, weighs in on this issue.
View: Mayo Clinic Proceedings
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Scroll through social media and you’re bound to see ads and videos touting the benefits of collagen. Many products claim that they can reduce the signs of aging by removing wrinkles and sagging skin.
“Collagen is a protein found deep in the skin that helps give it volume,” says Dr. Davis.
Dr. Davis says many people rely on collagen supplements because collagen production decreases as we age. But do they work?
Can collagen supplements reverse aging?
“Currently, there is no strong evidence that over-the-counter oral or topical collagen supplements are anti-aging,” she says.
Topical collagen may be difficult to absorb into the skin due to its chemical structure. Dr. Davis suggests making simple lifestyle changes to increase collagen.
“The best things you can do to maintain collagen and elastin to prevent aging are to limit your alcohol intake, avoid smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke, and wear sunscreen,” says Dr. Davis. Masu.
Foods that promote collagen production include:
- bone broth.
- fish, chicken, meat.
- nuts and seeds.
- egg.
