Should Athletes Take Collagen Supplements?

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Athletes must possess intense mental and physical determination to be able to compete at the highest level.  Many elite athletes add dietary supplements to the nutrients they get from meals to get the most out of their training because supplements can help to spur muscle growth and strength as well as boost energy levels for more effective workouts.  Protein supplements, such as collagen, are a popular choice with athletes because they can help reduce the recovery time your body needs after a grueling session, game, or competition.  Shorter recovery time means you can handle a more intense fitness regime so today we are asking the question, “Should athletes take collagen supplements?”

Understanding Collagen Protein

It’s common knowledge that proteins are the building blocks of the body. They are what your body’s cells and tissues feed on to make you grow and gain strength. Of all the proteins in the body, collagen is the most abundant and is known for its bonding properties. Collagen is the main component of many connective tissues, not just muscles. Ligaments, tendons, arteries, and skin all contain collagen. This nutrient also plays a role in the formation of bones and teeth, hence its usefulness to general body strength.

How Does Collagen Help Athletes?

• Anything that boosts body strength will be advantageous to athletes. Collagen is very useful for replenishing lost proteins after a strenuous workout. For this reason, many athletes ingest collagen supplements post-workout. Collagen helps to heal micro-tears accumulated during high-intensity workouts as well as the resulting inflammation. The high amino acid content in collagen makes it very useful in overall muscle restoration.
• Another reason pro athletes take collagen is that it boosts recovery from injuries. Collagen’s role in the production of connective scar tissue has been well documented in research; collagen is required by the body’s natural healing process. Not only does collagen help generate connective tissue, but it also strengthens this tissue and the new muscle fibers.
• Yet another example of the health benefits of collagen powder is its use for preventing injury. Daily intake of this protein will strengthen your joints and tendons, protecting you from career-threatening damage. The perennial joint pains that tend to attack athletes over time are also significantly reduced by regular collagen intake. Your joints will be more flexible, increasing your range of motion and overall performance. Visit this site to buy collagen protein powder and take advantage of these benefits. 

When Should Athletes Take Collagen Supplements?

Nutritionists advise athletes to take collagen powder not more than an hour after a workout as the body reaches its peak protein synthesis within this window. If taken after a workout, the high amino acid content in collagen will effectively work to repair micro-lesions as well and build muscle mass. It will also reduce the muscular aches that come the following day after rigorous workouts.

There are different schools of thought as to when is the ideal time of day to take your daily dose of collagen protein. Some say it is best to splash it down early in the morning as this is when maximum absorption can take place. Others say it is best to do so in the evening when the body is at rest and can fully focus on stripping the nutrients from the powder.  Whenever you decide it is best to take collagen supplements, you have plenty of options for how to consume it.

What’s the Best Way to Take Collagen?

Many people choose to take collagen supplements in powder form. This way, you can ingest it along with your favorite drink or smoothie. Those who prefer collagen powder say that adding collagen to their smoothies helps them make supplementation a daily habit.

Those who prefer collagen capsules will want to take note of the dose they decide to take each day. The 15-gram capsule is generally recommended as a post-workout supplement. Whichever form you prefer or dose you chose to take, consult your doctor before you get started.

Take Your Game to the Next Level

Competitive athletes don’t need to be told how fine the margins are between success and failure. Collagen protein could give you an edge over your competitors by boosting your workouts in a natural way. Besides increasing your muscle growth and shortening your recovery time, collagen will increase the strength of your joints. By taking this single supplement, you can improve your performance and overall health.

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