Collagen for Athletes
What athletes need to know about liquid collagen
For athletes and fitness fanatics, protein has always been of incredible importance. But many are under the impression that collagen is only beneficial in the beauty industry, which couldn't be further from the truth. Known for its magical ability to smooth and plump ageing skin, collagen is also very helpful when it comes to athletic ability and physical health. We guarantee that everyone from bodybuilders to Olympians will soon be trying liquid collagen for themselves. But what exactly is liquid collagen and how should you fit it into your day-to-day routine?
What is liquid collagen?
Liquid collagen is a supplement that is suspended in liquid-like purified water, containing high quantities of collagen proteins.
While there are 16 types of collagen in your body, the 4 most common types are Type I to Type IV. “The large majority of liquid collagen supplements on the market contain Type I,” says Tod Cooperman, MD, president of ConsumerLab, an independent supplement-testing organization in White Plains, New York. (https://www.thehealthy.com/beauty/face-body-care/liquid-collagen/)
How is liquid collagen beneficial for athletes?
Liquid collagen supplements could help athletes reach their fitness goals by filling in any deficiencies in their current diet. Whether it’s strength training or endurance, if you exercise regularly, your muscles and tendons are being fatigued. Even the connective tissues that allow your muscles to function properly experience wear and tear.
When you consume liquid collagen, your body will break down the molecules into amino acids. Every protein won’t have the same amino acid formula, so the type of protein you take will establish the amino acids that your body will provide to use. If you increase collagen production in your body, you can help strengthen the connective tissue. “The stronger those connective tissues are — cartilage at joints, tendons, ligaments — the lower the risk for injuries,” McNear observes. (https://www.gearpatrol.com/fitness/health-wellness/a588545/what-athletes-need-to-know-about-collagen-peptides/.)
Should you take liquid collagen before or after a workout?
The high levels of amino acid in liquid collagen make it perfect for muscle recovery and repair. For this reason, liquid collagen is a good option for post-workout nutrition. While some studies show that collagen is great before the workout, St. Pierre says that “Simply including 10 to 15 g in [your] daily intake is likely beneficial regardless of timing.” (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27852613/)
Can liquid collagen help with muscle recovery?
Collagen doesn’t have all the 9 essential amino acids needed in your diet. This makes collagen an incomplete protein. For this reason, collagen isn’t particularly helpful for muscle recovery or muscle protein synthesis. Saying that though, liquid collagen is great for supporting your muscular health systems and structures like ligaments, tendons and connective tissues.
Here at Kollo, we’re pleased to say that we are informed sport certified, making us a trusted figure in the sports and fitness industry. If you’re an athlete, fitness fanatic or habitual gym-goer, we recommend that you browse our selection of high-quality and effective liquid collagen today.
