Collagen Water: What It Is and How It Can Benefit Your Health

 

Individuals who are enthusiastic about skin-care and wellness have started incorporating collagen peptides into their coffee, taking collagen supplements alongside their morning vitamins, and now, drinking collagen water as part of the latest social media trend. According to followers of the trend, consuming collagen water promotes healthy hair, skin, joints, and bones.

Collagen is a commonly used term in the beauty industry due to its perceived skin benefits. The protein provides structure to the skin, making up 75 percent of its dry weight, as per a review published in January 2019 in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. However, collagen also plays a vital role in the structure of joints and bones, making it popular among individuals with stiff joints.

Although the body naturally produces collagen, the importance of natural collagen is well-established. While there isn't much evidence regarding the benefits of collagen supplements, such as collagen water, a few studies suggest that they may be beneficial.

This is what you should know about collagen water.

What Is Collagen Water?

Collagen water is a beverage made up of two primary ingredients - collagen and water. Collagen peptides, which are composed of shorter chains of amino acids, are the form of collagen that is commonly used in collagen water. This protein is typically derived from animal bones and skin. While homemade collagen water is made only with these two ingredients, store-bought varieties may include small amounts of fruit juices and plant extracts for added flavor. Despite its simple ingredients, collagen water is usually a good source of protein, with some products containing up to 10 grams per bottle, making it an excellent post-workout drink to replenish muscles and hydrate the body.

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, and its popularity among health-conscious consumers is on the rise. According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, online searches for collagen have steadily increased since 2014, with many people turning to collagen supplements in the hopes of achieving a more youthful appearance. Although there's no magic solution for aging-related issues like wrinkles, muscle loss, and changes in joint and bone health, consuming collagen may provide some benefits.

Dr. Gladd highlights that collagen seems to be particularly effective in combating aging-related skin concerns and alleviating symptoms associated with osteoarthritis. Collagen may have the ability to reduce wrinkles, increase skin elasticity, and ease joint pain. Additionally, consuming collagen through collagen water, a type of liquid collagen, offers the advantage of hydrating the body.

Can drinking collagen water offer any health benefits?

The use of collagen in beauty products is mainly limited to creams and moisturizers claiming to enhance natural collagen levels in the skin, although there is limited research to support these claims. Ingesting collagen through oral supplements, however, has been studied more, and the available research indicates that it increases skin elasticity, hydration, and collagen density in the dermal layers. 

Collagen supplementation may also improve symptoms related to osteoarthritis, according to a meta-analysis published in March 2019. Nevertheless, a review published in February 2022 noted that the benefits of oral collagen supplements are often overstated and not fully supported by scientific evidence.

Are There Any Health Risks Involved?

As with other supplements, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before trying collagen water, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This is particularly important if you have a medical condition or are taking medication. It's worth noting that the FDA does not regulate supplements, including collagen supplements that are mixed with water. However, collagen water is considered low-risk by experts. 

While there are few known risks, Jeffrey Gladd, an integrative physician, suggests that consumers be cautious of heavy metal contamination and purchase collagen water from reputable brands that perform third-party testing for quality and safety. Collagen water may also contain added sugar and artificial sweeteners that should be monitored from a nutritional standpoint.

How to Properly Mix Collagen Powder with Water

If you wish to try collagen water and desire more control over its ingredients, making it yourself at home is a feasible option. This way may also be more cost-effective. Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides and Orgain Grass Fed Pasture Raised Collagen Peptides are two popular products that offer multiple servings at reasonable prices.

Dr. Gladd suggests that collagen water can be made quickly by adding a scoop of your preferred collagen powder to a glass of water. Additionally, collagen powders can be combined with other beverages, including tea, coffee, juice, and smoothies. To mix collagen powder with water or other liquids, adhere to the recommended powder-to-liquid ratio provided on the package. Most products come with a scoop to simplify the process.

Is Collagen Water Really Worth the Hype? Here's What Experts Say

Dr. King explains that it's still unclear whether collagen consumption can improve skin health by increasing collagen concentration in the skin. Although some initial findings are positive, these studies tend to be small and short-term. At present, the existing research on collagen's ability to enhance skin health and reduce the signs of aging is still in the early stages, and more research is needed to identify those who may benefit and the most helpful collagen types. Despite this, no adverse effects have been reported in studies so far.

However, because collagen water only consists of protein peptides and water, it could potentially assist with hydration and protein intake.

If you're considering trying collagen water, it's important to consult with your healthcare team first to determine if it's safe and may contribute to your long-term health objectives.