Introduction:
Protein supplements for the purpose muscle growth often prioritize the use of whey protein, however collagen is the body's most abundant protein and is gaining recognition for its potential advantages in muscle building in addition to its well-known benefits skin health. In this article, we delve into the latest research on collagen supplementation and compare it to whey protein to assess its impact on muscle growth.
Let's explore five key benefits of collagen that can unlock your muscle-building potential:
Enhances Muscle Recovery
Collagen supplementation has been shown to enhance muscle recovery after injuries. It stimulates muscle protein synthesis, particularly in individuals with sarcopenia, aiding muscle repair and growth. Additionally, collagen supplementation, combined with resistance training, has demonstrated support for muscle recovery.
Boosts Muscle Protein Synthesis
Collagen contains essential amino acids like glycine and arginine, which are crucial for creatine synthesis. By supplementing with collagen, you provide your body with these vital amino acids, facilitating muscle protein synthesis and promoting muscle growth. Collagen is especially effective for individuals on low-protein diets or specific dietary protocols like keto or intermittent fasting.
Supports Positive Nitrogen Balance:
Collagen supplementation promotes positive nitrogen balance, a critical factor in building new muscle. While collagen may have lower protein digestibility, it compensates by providing higher levels of available nitrogen in the body. Consequently, you can achieve a higher nitrogen balance with less protein intake compared to other sources like whey.
Complements Whey Protein and Plant Protein for Muscle Gain:
Collagen, whey protein, and plant protein each offer distinct benefits for muscle growth and can complement each other. Whey protein, rich in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), is known for driving protein synthesis and promoting muscle growth. Collagen supports positive nitrogen balance and muscle repair, while plant protein provides a valuable source of essential amino acids and other nutrients. By incorporating collagen, with whey and/or plant protein into your supplement routine, you can maximize your muscle-building potential and enjoy a comprehensive approach to fueling your workouts.
Supports Joint Health:
Collagen plays a vital role in maintaining healthy joints and cartilage. Supplementation with collagen can aid cartilage rebuilding, reduce joint pain, and stimulate the body's natural collagen production. This is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing joint discomfort or degenerative bone diseases.
Collagen supplementation offers a range of additional health benefits, extending beyond muscle growth. It helps maintain hormonal balance, promotes better sleep, improves liver function, and enhances brain functioning by supporting cognitive processes. Furthermore, collagen supports the exchange of compounds between the blood and the brain, facilitating optimal brain health. In addition to these advantages, collagen supplementation is also well-known for its positive effects on the skin. It can reduce wrinkles, enhance skin elasticity, and promote a more youthful appearance by increasing elastin production and stimulating the body's own collagen production.
Conclusion:
Collagen supplementation shows promising results in promoting muscle growth and supporting overall health. While whey protein remains popular for muscle gain due to its high BCAA content, collagen's unique benefits, such as stimulating muscle protein synthesis and promoting positive nitrogen balance, make it a valuable addition to your supplement routine. Combining collagen with whey or plant protein provides a comprehensive approach to unlock your muscle-building potential. B Maximum offers a number of high quality collagen products to help you with you fitness goals. As always, consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
References:
Proksch E, et al. Oral intake of specific bioactive collagen peptides reduces skin wrinkles and increases dermal matrix synthesis. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2014;27(3):113-9.
Schauss AG, et al. Effect of the novel low molecular weight hydrolyzed chicken sternal cartilage extract.
