The effects of collagen peptide supplementation on body composition, collagen synthesis, and recovery from joint injury and exercise: a systematic review

Abstract

Collagen peptide supplementation (COL), in conjunction with exercise, may be beneficial for the management of degenerative bone and joint disorders. This is likely due to stimulatory effects of COL and exercise on the extracellular matrix of connective tissues, improving structure and load-bearing capabilities. This systematic review aims to evaluate the current literature available on the combined impact of COL and exercise. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines, a literature search of three electronic databases—PubMed, Web of Science and CINAHL—was conducted in June 2020. Fifteen randomised controlled trials were selected after screening 856 articles. The study populations included 12 studies in recreational athletes, 2 studies in elderly participants and 1 in untrained pre-menopausal women. Study outcomes were categorised into four topics: (i) joint pain and recovery from joint injuries, (ii) body composition, (iii) muscle soreness and recovery from exercise, and (iv) muscle protein synthesis (MPS) and collagen synthesis. The results indicated that COL is most beneficial in improving joint functionality and reducing joint pain. Certain improvements in body composition, strength and muscle recovery were present. Collagen synthesis rates were elevated with 15 g/day COL but did not have a significant impact on MPS when compared to isonitrogenous higher quality protein sources. Exact mechanisms for these adaptations are unclear, with future research using larger sample sizes, elite athletes, female participants and more precise outcome measures such as muscle biopsies and magnetic imagery.

Characterization of Acid- and Pepsin-Soluble Collagen Extracted from the Skin of Purple-Spotted Bigeye Snapper

“…Due to their moisture absorption properties, collagen and its fractions have demonstrated a significant role as valuable nutritive fibres and protein sources in human diets [ 2 ]. Collagen supplements may help with the treatment of degenerative bone and joint diseases, increase lean muscle gain, shorten recovery time, fix damaged joint structure, and improve cardiovascular performance [ 51 ]. Collagen promotes natural creatine, a key amino acid in post-workout muscle growth.…”

Nutritional Strategies in the Rehabilitation of Musculoskeletal Injuries in Athletes: A Systematic Integrative Review

“…In this sense, research has shown that supplementation with hydrolyzed collagen (≈10 g per day) can increase cartilage thickness in patients with osteoarthritis [ 112 ] and decrease knee pain in athletes [ 113 ]. Indeed, the recent systematic review performed by Kahtri et al (2021) [ 47 ] concluded that ‘collagen peptides and specific gelatin products have strong evidence in improving joint pain and functionality (especially at doses of 15 g/day)’. The data presented suggest a benefit of gelatin along with vitamin C and/or hydrolyzed collagen supplements; therefore, it is expected that future clinical studies need to confirm this recommendation in injury-related specific conditions [ 93 ].…”

The value of undenatured collagen for the normalization of the function of the cartilaginous tissue of the joints

“…Сделан вывод о том, что экзогенный коллаген можно использовать в качестве безопасной терапевтической добавки для контроля симптомов боли на фоне ОА и остеопороза [36]. Опубликованы положительные результаты исследования, включающие специальные комплексы физических упражнений в сочетании с приемом коллагена [38]. Основанием для инициации этого исследования послужила гипотеза о «механической трансдукции», которая предполагает, что механическая нагрузка на ткани сухожилий во время упражнений создает сигнальный каскад в клетках этих тканей, увеличивает выработку белков матрикса и последующую гипертрофию сухожилий, что в сочетании с экзогенным коллагеном создает дополнительные преимущества [39].…”